Iodine-Enriched Potassium Nitrate Transforms Avocado Production

Are you looking to maximize your avocado yield? Recent trials conducted in Tzaneen, South Africa, have uncovered an innovative approach that could revolutionize your orchard’s performance. Using iodine-enriched potassium nitrate (Ultrasol®ine K Plus) as a soil-appliedfertilizer, researchers have demonstrated a remarkable increase in both fruit set and yield for ‘Maluma Hass’ avocado trees.

The Key Ingredient: Iodine for Better Fruit Set

Traditionally overlooked as a plant nutrient¹*, iodine is emerging as a pivotal factor for fruit-bearing trees. Known to enhance photosynthesis, root growth, and stress resistance, iodine’s value in plant nutrition has been observed in over 30 crops²*. However, this is the first study showing its significant impact on avocado yield, making it a must-have in your fertilizer program.

What the Trials Revealed

Over two years of field trials, the combination of soil-applied K and N as Ultrasol®ine K Plus ( potassium nitrate (KNO3) with iodine (I) ) outperformed standard potassium sulfate and ammonium sulphate (K2SO4  and (NH₄)₂SO₄) applications, resulting in:

• More Fruits Set Per Tree: Soil-applied KNO3+I consistently allowed more fruits to develop, and less fruit to drop during early fruit development, compared to traditional K2SO  and ammonium sulphate.
• 60% Yield Increase in the First Year from 1.: This major boost effect was attributed to a higher number of fruits per tree when iodine was included in soil, under challenging conditions causing very low fruit set and yield (1.5 MT/ha in the control).

How Does It Work?

Iodine is absorbed by the roots and leaves, where it binds with essential plant proteins, supporting critical functions like photosynthesis and resilience to abiotic stress. This helps reduce early fruit drop and ensures more fruits reach harvest, ultimately helping the crop to reach its full harvest potential and profitability.

Why Choose Iodine-Enriched KNO3?

Take-home message from the trials:

• Implementation of  230-359 kg ha-1 of Ultrasol®ine in the regular N and K soil fertilization routine, in two split applications during bloom.
• Higher Fruit Set: Consistently setting more fruits after application of the right source of fertilizers  during the critical bloom period.
• Enhanced Stress Tolerance: Supporting the plant through environmental challenges like drought or nutrient deficiency. 

Ready to Take Your Orchard to the Next Level?

Upgrade your fertilization strategy with Ultrasol®ine K Plus (iodine-enriched potassium nitrate). The results speak for themselves: more fruits, higher yield, and ultimately, a more profitable orchard. Contact your SQM advisor today and see how this new solution can transform your avocado production.