Welcome to Erel's Lab of
Fertilization and Plant Nutrition!
Our lab is part of the Agriculture Research Organization (ARO)
Volcani Institute located in Gilat.

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We are engaged in the study of essential soil-plant processes, with a focus on the uptake and mobility of nutrients in plants. Our research focuses on phosphorus—both on its uptake mechanisms by plants and its chemistry in the soil—alongside innovative studies on fruit tree fertilization and calcium movement into fruits and vegetables. The integration of these areas of knowledge contributes to the development of sustainable agricultural practices.
In Our Lab We Focus On...

To improve fruit quality, we are testing different fertilization strategies to enhance calcium (Ca) supply to the fruits of fruit trees, such as avocado, mango, and apple, as well as to field crops like pepper, tomato, lettuce, and corn. Our goal is to address calcium deficiency, which negatively affects fruit quality and yield, thereby enabling healthier growth and improved resistance to physiological disorders.
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This project focuses on the challenge of insufficient supply of mineral nutrients and the degradation of soil quality, particularly in arid regions. This challenge significantly hinders agricultural production in developing countries. We are exploring solutions to improve phosphorus nutrition through the use of compost made from urban waste, alongside compost from poultry and cattle manure, in order to enhance crop and soil health.

Balanced nitrogen (N) fertilization is essential for supporting vigorous growth and reproductive development in avocado trees. However, both excess and deficiency of nitrogen can reduce tree fertility. Research findings indicate that nitrogen availability significantly affects the fruit’s chemical composition and the levels of health-promoting compounds it contains. Our research aims to address the need for optimizing nitrogen fertilization in order to improve fruit quality and meet the growing market demand.
Contact Us
Gilat Agricultural Research Center, Mobile Post Negev 2, 8510500
Dr. Erel's Email Address
Dr. Erel's Personal Phone Number
Office Number
0547580414
0723770244
