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Nutrients For Watermelons
Farmer's Weekly
|March 1, 2019
Many farmers ask for a fertiliser programme for each crop. As I’ve said before, this is an unrealistic request, as the organic and mineral content, texture and structure of soil varies from land to land. A soil analysis is the only way to determine fertiliser requirements.
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(In my case, I apply no fertiliser at all as my soil has been built up with high organic content, good mineral content and sufficient nitrogen from the winter legume cover crop.)
Based on the results of a soil analysis, you should fertilise to ensure that the phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) soil levels are adequate.
Ideally, soil pH should be slightly acidic but at least 5,5. However, a reasonably alkaline soil can still yield a good crop.
CALCIUM
A shortage of Ca will increase the risk of blossom-end rot, rendering your watermelons unmarketable. It’s important to ensure that enough Ca is available, as blossom-end rot can strike suddenly, especially during a dry spell.
PHOSPHORUS
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