Effect of nitrogenous fertilizer application and harvesting intervals on yield of tea clone TRFK 6/8 in Tanzania

Abstract

The response of tea clone TRFK 6/8 to nitrogenous fertilizer application and plucking intervals was examined at two sites in Lake Victoria basin in Tanzania between October 2008 and May 2011. The yield varied among locations in different growing seasons. Highest yield was recorded when 150-255 kg N ha-1year-1 and 225-300 kg N ha-1year-1 was applied and the leaves were plucked at seven days intervals in Katoke and Maruku sites respectively. Variation in yield implies that fertilizer application and plucking intervals should be synchronized in order to optimize productivity and profitability of tea in Tanzania.