Potassium
Let’s now talk about post-harvest potassium. Potassium has several critical functions in almonds 

• Photosynthesis 
• Carbohydrate synthesis, translocation, and starch formation 
• Bud differentiation and formation of fruiting spurs 
• Lessened winter fruiting bud mortality 
• Stronger return bloom for next year’s crop  

Standard recommendation for post-harvest potassium management is replacement rates of dry sulfate of potash applied broadcast or banded. As a reminder, almonds remove approximately 100 pounds of fertilizer K2O for every 1000 pounds of nutmeat harvested. 

For a yield of 3000 lbs. that would equate to 600 pounds 0-0-50 sulfate of potash, which may not fit every almond grower’s budget. As another possible cost-saving measure this practice may be omitted in well managed, healthy orchards with non-declining soil K levels.

To maintain healthy, photosynthetically active leaves during the fall for a stronger bloom next season we still want to supplement with low rate cost-saving water-run potassium applications. Water run K in drip and a micro-sprinkler is immediately available for crop uptake and you have options on liquid potassium choices. 

• In acidic soils, potassium carbonate is preferred (alkaline pH) 
• In alkaline soils, potassium thiosulfate (KTS) may be preferred (acid-forming fertilizer) 
• Where soil pH is in the optimal range Till-It Rekoil is the preferred product of choice (neutral effect on soil pH) 

Carl Bruice, Wilbur-Ellis National Nutrition Technical Manager