Efficient Nutrient Management in California Vegetable Production

Nutrient management is critical to successful vegetable production. Given the high value and exacting market standards for size, appearance, and postharvest quality for vegetable crops, fertilizer management practices have focused on optimizing production across a wide range of field conditions. While effective in producing good crops, these practices are not necessarily reflective of input costs or environmental protection. As growers face increasingly stringent regulations designed to minimize nutrient losses to the environment, a new look at fertilization practices is warranted.