Manure-Fertilizer-Selection on ficus
What's Happening
Manure type affects mineralization rate and nutrient release profile; sheep manure contains higher nitrogen concentration and faster decomposition compared to cattle manure, providing 10kg sheep manure + 100g N/plant produced superior fruit yield, fruit number per tree, fruit weight, length and diameter versus equal amounts of cow manure
How to Fix It
- 1
Apply 10kg sheep manure + 100g nitrogen per plant for optimal reproductive growth (fruiting) and vegetative development in Ficus species
- 2
Use cattle manure at equal rates (10kg/plant) when gradual nutrient release is preferred for maintenance fertilization rather than active growth phases
- 3
Incorporate manure into top 15cm of soil profile 4-6 weeks before active growth period to allow initial mineralization and prevent nitrogen immobilization shock
How to Prevent It
Ensure manure is fully composted (thermophilic composting >55°C for minimum 15 days) to eliminate pathogens and weed seeds; avoid fresh manure application which can cause ammonia toxicity and root burn in container plants.