Liming, fertilization and nutrition of star fruit trees: Review

Abstract

Star fruit is an exotic fruit, originally from the topical regions of Asia, which found in Brazil adequate climatic conditions for its development, making it a prom-ising species for cultivation throughout the country. However, despite the favorable climate, soils in tropical regions are generally acidic and have low natural fertility. In addition, due to the perennial condition of the star fruit tree, its roots remain for several years exploring practically the same soil volume, which requires constant monitoring of soil fertility and the nutritional status of plants. Research results have proven that the star fruit tree is responsive to liming and fertilizer application, with productivity gains and improvements in fruit quality. However, to ensure positive re-sponses and success in agricultural activity, it is necessary that soil acidity correctors and fertilizers are applied in a technical and efficient manner based on the use of well-established agronomic tools, such as soil and leaf analysis. This review aims to gather information from studies, mainly those carried out in Brazil, on the nutritional requirements of star fruit trees, suggesting the best agronomic practices of soil fertility and nutrition of this fruit tree.