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Fertiliser Management

  • Phosphorus (P) was once believed to be transported only when attached to soil particles. Research has since found that phosphorus can be transported whilst dissolved in water. In Southern Australia the majority of P moves in the dissolved form. Practices that reduce run-off also keep the P on farm for plant growth, and reduce losses into dams and waterways.
  • Avoid applying fertiliser from July to Sept when run-off is likely and soils may be waterlogged. Watch the seven-day weather forecast and apply when rain is not expected. Four days without run-off after P application - halves the fertiliser losses
  • Apply Phosphorus in summer (Feb-May) and take advantage of fertiliser discounts.
  • Obtain soil tests and use the results to apply only the fertiliser that the pasture and crop requires - this saves money and reduces the opportunity for run-off into dams and waterways. Reduce application where fertility is high and increase on lower fertility areas.

Photo: Work on the farm
Photo: Avoid fertilising in or around drainage lines, waterways, dams, wet areas or low productivity areas
  • Stock tend to camp on the top (urinating and defecating) of slopes resulting in higher nutrient levels - therefore concentrate on the slopes which are generally lower in fertility. If practical, fence the top and bottom of hills to control grazing and fertiliser applications.
    Other considerations
    • Blue-green algae blooms can occur in dams during the warmer months. Some forms are toxic. If a bloom is suspected avoid using the water, prevent stock access and get the water tested.
    • Map land classes based on soil types, eroded and erosion prone areas, wet/low spots, water bodies and other natural features. This will show areas of the farm that may require specific management such as erosion. You can use the same map for pasture/crop rotations, soil fertility.
    Avoid fertilising in or around drainage lines, waterways, dams, wet areas or low productivity areas (unless aiming to improve) - as you will not get returns for your investment.
    Photographs by: Rawdon Sthradher (Fine Focus Photography).

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