Bitter pit is a plant physiological disorder that results in localized lesions on the surface of fruit. It is the result of cell breakdown and oxidation caused by inadequate calcium and cell wall strength.
Key FactsCalcium and Silicon
Improved calcium uptake in the plant for increased calcium concentration in the fruit must occur during early cell development. This cell development timing starts at the latter stages of bloom and ninety percent of cell calcium uptake occurs during a three-week window of time. A highly beneficial element that facilitates the cell organization and rigidity is silicon. Silicon is taken up in the plant as mono-silicic acid. Application of the combination of plant available calcium and plant available silicon has proven to be very beneficial for reducing bitter pit. Increased uptake of calcium and silicon also strongly influence the ability of the plant to withstand abiotic stress.
Two unique calcium products offered by Redox are:
• Mainstay Calcium – A reacted nutrient product high in calcium (20%) with Redox microencapsulation technology for high uptake and movement within the plant.
• Mainstay Si – A reacted nutrient product high in calcium (10%) and silicon (22%) with Redox microencapsulation technology for high uptake and movement within the plant.
| Excellent horticultural management: Crop Load, Tree Vigor | Manage Soil Health: Soil Moisture, Root Growth and Development | Nutrition Management: Nitrogen, Calcium, Potassium |
Mainstay Si
Apply 0.5 gals/acre at petal fall through a foliar application.
Apply 0.5 gals/acre at 14 days post petal fall through a foliar application.
Mainstay Calcium
Apply 3-5 gals/acre at early bloom with a soil application
Apply 3-5 gals/acre at late bloom/petal fall with a soil application
Apply 3-5 gals/acre 14 days post petal fall with a soil application
Note: use higher rates for problem orchards.