This project aims to maximise nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in the Australian cherry industry. Cherries are a significant deciduous tree crop grown in cool temperate climates of Australia. N is essential for cherry tree development, fruit production and quality. Presently, only limited data is available for Australian cherry growing regions on the relative importance of soil N processes, total N loss from current management practices and tree N requirements.

The project is using the 15N stable isotope to quantify tree N demand, soil supply and current practice N use efficiency (NUE) to develop best management practices (BMP) for optimising N fertiliser use, including biological fertiliser options. Research outcomes will be used to develop best management strategies for N use to increase quantity and quality of cherry yields.