Application of Deviation from Optimum Percentage (DOP) to Determine the Nutritional Balance of Sour Lemon Gardens in Hormozgan Province

The average yield of sour lemon orchards in the country is lower as compared to the global average. Deviation from optimum percentage (DOP) is a simple method that can be used to design a balanced fertilization program.The index indicates the nutritional status and nutrient deficiency or excess, and can be used to prioritizes the plants nutrients need. For this study, three important areas of Hashtbandi, central Minab and Roodan in the province were selected, and 20 gardens of sour lemon were considered in each area (total 60 gardens). The sampling of the leaves as well as yield measurement were done. The average of DOP was calculated for the nutrients. According to this, nutritional priorities were determined as Mn> Fe> Zn> N> K> Cu> Cl> B> P for sour lemon gardens in Hormozgan province. The reference values that was obtained in this study, could be used in Hormozgan gardens sour lemon to evaluate the nutritional balance with DOP method and to make as appropriate decision. Consumption ofthe micronutrients manganese, iron and zinc in these gardens was a priority based on the results of this study.