Agriculture often grapples with soil nutrient depletion and water management challenges. At the University of California Riverside’s Citrus Research Center and Coachella Valley Agricultural Research Station, these issues impacted the growth and yield of Hass avocado and Medjool date palm crops. In 2019, NEPS was installed as part of a trial to assess its impact on crop performance. This case study explores the findings over three years.
Identifying the problem: Suboptimal growth and yield
Avocado and date palm trees at the research sites faced nutrient deficiencies and irrigation inefficiencies, leading to inconsistent growth and low yields. Traditional fertilization methods and irrigation adjustments failed to resolve these issues effectively. Researchers sought an innovative solution to enhance soil nutrient availability and optimize water usage.
The NEPS installation: Enhancing subsoil nutrient delivery
In May 2019, NEPS units were installed around avocado and date palm trees in trial plots. The system’s unique design delivers nutrients directly to the subsoil, improving root access and nutrient uptake. The installation was completed using the HAZL ultra-light drilling rig, ensuring minimal disruption to the research sites.
Results: Improved growth and resource efficiency
Avocado trees
While statistical analyses showed no significant differences in yield between NEPS-treated and non-treated trees, treated trees exhibited better nutrient absorption and foliage health.
NEPS-treated trees demonstrated improved nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels in leaf samples, indicating enhanced nutrient uptake.
Researchers observed a trend toward higher fruit yields in NEPS-treated trees located near pollinizers, suggesting potential synergies that warrant further study.
Date palms
NEPS-treated palms showed higher fruit weights and improved quality compared to non-treated controls.
Enhanced soil nutrient profiles supported better overall tree health and productivity.
Researchers noted reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers, aligning with sustainable farming practices.
Dr. Peggy Mauk from UC Riverside commented on the system’s potential:
“NEPS offers a promising approach to addressing soil nutrient limitations and optimizing water use, especially in challenging agricultural environments.”
Environmental and economic benefits
Reduced fertilizer dependency: NEPS minimized the need for chemical inputs, lowering costs and environmental risks.
Water efficiency: By enhancing nutrient uptake, NEPS supported healthy growth with less water.
Improved crop quality: Higher fruit weights and better nutrient profiles contributed to marketable yields.
NEPS is a new frontier in sustainable agriculture
The NEPS trials at UC Riverside demonstrated its potential to address critical challenges in agriculture. Exlterra NEPS improved nutrient delivery and water use efficiency, and provided a sustainable solution for enhancing crop health and productivity. This case study underscores the value of adopting innovative technologies to meet the growing demands of modern agriculture.
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