Paulownia Irrigation and Fertilization: Maximizing Yields
Good draining soil is the basis. But to achieve its growth objectives (3 to 5 m per year), Paulownia needs to be managed as an intensive crop. The difference between a stunted tree and a valuable log depends on access to water and a rigorous NPK fertilization plan.
1. Water Management: Quantity and Frequency
Paulownia’s large leaves (optimized C4 photosynthesis) transpire enormously. Water stress is the primary factor limiting growth.
Le Goutte-à-Goutte (Recommended)
This is the queen of techniques. Unlike sprinkling, which encourages leaf diseases, drip irrigation brings water directly to the roots.
- Year 1: 15 to 20 liters / tree / week (in 2 or 3 applications).
- Year 2+: 30 to 50 litres/tree/week in dry periods.
2. Fertilization plan: The Nitrogen-Potash Duo
Paulownia has similar needs to corn. It needs “food” to build up its biomass quickly.
The engine of growth.
Use in spring and early summer. Promotes leaf and green stem development.
Source: Urea, ammonium nitrate or poultry droppings.
Hardener.
Essential in late summer. It enables lignification (transformation of green wood into hardwood) and winter frost resistance.
Beware of Magnesium and Iron deficiencies (especially in calcareous soil pH > 7.5), visible by discoloration between the veins.
Service schedule (Technical Itinerary)
Timing is as important as quantity. Applying nitrogen too late prevents the tree from preparing for winter, increasing the risk of frost.
| Period | Action | Target | Product type |
|---|---|---|---|
| March – April | Start irrigation (if dry) | Root awakening | Water only |
| May – June | Nitrogen fertilization (N) | Vegetative bloom (Height) | N-rich fertilizer (e.g. 20-10-10) |
| July – August 15 | Maintenance + Irrigation max | Maintain rhythm | N-P-K balance |
| End of August | TOTAL nitrogen stop | Stop vertical growth | Potash (K) alone |
| September | Irrigation reduction | Controlled water stress | Strengthens budding (lignification) |
| October | Irrigation stop | Dormancy | – |
Summary of unit requirements (Estimates)
Data to be adapted according to your initial soil analysis.
Display NPK units per hectare
annee,unites_N_ha,unites_P_ha,unites_K_ha,frequence_apport annee_1,50-80,30-40,40-60,mensuel_mai_juillet annee_2,100-150,50-60,80-100,mensuel_mai_juillet annee_3_plus,150-200,60-80,100-120,fractionne_printemps recommandation_eau,15-20L_semaine_plant,30-50L_semaine_arbre,,selon_pluviometrie
Technical FAQs
Can liquid manure be used?
Yes, it’s excellent, but be careful with burial. Manure must be well composted to avoid burning the young roots. Organic fertilization is best done in the autumn before planting.
Is irrigation compulsory?
For quality lumber production in 7-8 years: YES. Without irrigation, Paulownia survives but grows much more slowly (12-15 year cycles) and the wood will be denser, less homogeneous (irregular rings), which reduces its market value.
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