Phosphorus deficiency on orange made worse by

  • Acidic or very alkaline (calcareaus) soils
  • Low organic matter
  • Cold or wet conditions
  • Crops with a poorly developed root system
  • Soils with low P reserves
  • Soils with a high phosphate capacity
  • Iron rich soils

Phosphorus is important for

  • Vegetative growth increased
  • Leaves are much greener
  • Fruit set is increased
  • Yield boosted, fruit quality enhanced (sugar/acid improved)
  • Particularly important in young trees with poorly developed root systems