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Citrus fertilization should prevent chlorine damage
In recent years, the issue of chlorine accumulation in citrus production has become a growing concern among farmers. This problem often arises from the improper use of chlorinated fertilizers and pesticides. After harvest, some farmers apply high-chloride compound fertilizers, which gradually increase the chloride ion content in the soil. As a result, citrus trees absorb excessive chlorine, leading to reduced water uptake and damage to root tips. The toxic effects of chloride on citrus can be categorized into two types: acute and chronic poisoning.
Acute poisoning occurs over a short period and is characterized by the shedding of older leaves and premature fruit drop. In severe cases, it can lead to the loss of an entire orchard. This type of poisoning typically happens when farmers use potassium chloride along with sprays that contain chlorine-based pesticides. On the other hand, chronic poisoning develops over time. Affected trees show brown necrotic areas along the midribs, with a wide base and narrow top. Young shoots may develop irregular brown spots, with grayish leaves and dark green veins. During winter, these trees are more prone to leaf fall. However, symptoms can improve if the use of chlorine-containing fertilizers and pesticides is stopped.
To minimize the harmful effects of chloride ions on citrus, several measures can be taken. First, it’s important to apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers while limiting or avoiding potassium-based ones. For example, each orange tree can receive about 0.3 kg of urea and 40–50 kg of well-rotted manure. When using compound fertilizers, choose those with high nitrogen and low potassium chloride content. Second, avoid using potassium chloride for rhizosphere or foliar applications. Instead, opt for potassium nitrate, potassium sulfate, or potassium dihydrogen phosphate for soil application. For foliar sprays, mix urea, superphosphate, and potassium dihydrogen phosphate (or potassium nitrate) with water, let the mixture steep for 5–7 days, strain it, and then dilute it before spraying.
After application, the leaf color will turn greener, the leaves will thicken, and the fruit set will improve. Additionally, after the autumn flush is exposed to frost, leaf loss decreases, and both flower quality and quantity in the following year significantly improve. These practices effectively help prevent chloride toxicity in citrus crops.