Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Chelates.
Chelated micronutrient sprays may be used when soil and/or plant
tissue analyses show nutrient deficiencies. Chelates are used to protect nu-
trient molecules from becoming chemically bound up in the soil and unavail-
able to plants. Some chelates may also facilitate the uptake of nutrients by
plants, which normally release chelates from their roots to make soil nutri-
ents more available. Amino acids, lignosulphate, citric acid, malic acid, tar-
taric acid, and other diacid and triacid chelates are acceptable chelates for
organic orchards.
Chelated products may be applied to the soil, but they are most useful
in orchards as foliar sprays to correct micronutrient deficiencies. Use only
products approved for organic use.
Cocoa bean hulls.
Cocoa bean hulls are the shells of cocoa beans and are
removed from the beans during roasting. The hulls are generally applied as
mulches and slowly decompose. They contain about 2 to 3 percent nitrogen
and small amounts of phosphorus and potassium. While the mulch is weed-
free, organic growers need to ensure and document that the products they
use have been tested for pesticide residues and found to be clean. Cocoa
bean hull mulch is best used for home orchards, as its cost is prohibitive for
larger, commercial operations.
Compost.
Compost is an outstanding amendment for orchards, providing
both organic matter and nutrients. Because it is derived, in large part, from
plant materials, compost normally has most or all of the nutrients plants
need and in the correct proportions.
The quality of compost and its nutrient content depend on what goes
into it and how it is prepared. It can be made strictly from plant materials
or include animal manures and/or amendments such as colloidal phosphate.
Properly managed compost has temperatures high enough to kill most weed
seeds and pathogenic microorganisms. Many beneficial microorganisms tol-
erate the composting. Storey Publishing carries several guides for compost-
ing. The
On-Farm Composting Handbook
, available online from the Natural
