As yield expectations have soared in recent years, so has the importance of nutrient management. Apple growers who were once happy harvesting 60 bins per acre are now counting on eventual annual yields of 100 bins or more to cover the high cost of new plantings. “With increased crop loads, we have to replace a large amount of nutrients that are being taken out of the ground and the trees when we harvest those crops,” said Tim Welsh, horticulturist with Columbia Fruit Packers in Wenatchee, Washington. Dave Gleason, horticulturist with Kershaw Fruit Company in Yakima, Washington, said growers have been […]