Nutrient Management

Nitrogen Best Management Practices

The Almond Board’s Nitrogen Best Management Practices (BMPs) summarize years of ABC-funded research in the areas of nitrogen and nutrient management. From cover to cover, the BMPs offer practical advice and information on how to implement the 4Rs of plant nutrition (Right Rate, Right Time, Right Place, and Right Source). Working across the California almond industry’s academic community, stakeholders, and water coalitions, the Almond Board created this create this comprehensive, practical guide for growers. The recommendations in this guide are also in alignment with direction and requirements put forth by CV-SALTs and water quality coalitions in the Central Valley, providing growers the information needed to better comply with those standards.

The Four R’s of Nutrient Management in Almonds.

Maximizing the efficiency of applied nutrients will result in improved yields, reduced input costs and less potential for leaching into ground and surface water. Efficient nutrient management can be accomplished by following the Four R’s:

• Applying at the right rate: Matching tree and almond crop demand with supply, taking into consideration the contribution of nutrients from all sources, including fertilizer, organic nitrogen, water, and soil.

• Applying at the right time: Spoon-fed applications during the growing season to maximize uptake and minimize loss potential.

• Applying in the right place: To ensure delivery to the active root zone.

• Using the right source: To maximize uptake and minimize loss potential.

The Nutrient Management module of the California Almond Sustainability Program is designed as a grower practice self-assessment, but also contains valuable educational information about nutrient management in almonds. For more information on CASP, go to almonds.com/almond-industry/sustainability-program