Researchers from the Griffith Asia Institute (GAI) have proven that lower application rates of fertilisers do not affect the yield or quality of two mango varieties in Southern Vietnam.
An investigation into the current fertiliser practices of smallholder mango farmers in Dong Thap and Tien Giang provinces found that the desire to maximise yield was leading to a widespread overuse of fertiliser, resulting in higher production costs, an exacerbated susceptibility to pests and disease, and significant environmental impacts. Trials conducted in collaboration with in-country researchers from the Southern Horticultural Research Institute (SOFRI) demonstrated that mango yield and quality can be maintained with lower application rates. Further testing was then undertaken to ascertain the optimum application rates.
Peter Johnson, an adjunct industry fellow with GAI and lead horticulturalist on the study: “We tested the effects of four NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) fertiliser treatments on the Cat Chu and Cat Hoa Loc varieties of mango. While the different treatments had varying effects on components such as weight, length, or edible portion, our results indicated that overall yield and quality could be maintained with a lower dosage than the current industry standard.”
Source: news.griffith.edu.au