Better fertiliser decisions for crop nutrition

Inefficient or incorrect use of fertiliser can be a substantial, but somewhat hidden, cost in the cropping operation. Using good data to better understand your existing soil nutrient status before deciding on a fertiliser strategy can optimise expenditure on fertiliser and crop yields.

This Fact Sheet is the first of a series of Fact Sheets to assist growers in making better fertiliser decisions.

Key Points

• Fertilisers are a major cost of growing a crop.
• Ensure your adviser has, or is working towards, the Fertcare Accredited Adviser standard.
• Be clear on fertiliser product choice and rate and timing of application.
• Soil testing is the only quantitative nutrient information that can be used to predict yield response to nutrients.
• Soil samples should be taken before sowing so that results and recommendations are available in time to order the right fertiliser product(s).
• Develop a strategy for deep sampling of nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S). For growers with a capacity to apply N either pre-sowing or at sowing, collect samples pre-crop (during fallow) with enough time to prepare N and S budgets and secure required fertiliser requirements. For growers relying on topdressing to supply additional N, sample in-crop during early crop development (i.e. cereals – during early tillering) with sufficient time to allow timely topdressing (i.e. cereals – before GS31).
• Choose a laboratory that has the Australasian Soil and Plant Analysis Council (ASPAC) certification for the tests they offer. National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accreditation is also desirable.
• Regular planned sampling of paddocks (for example, every three years) allows monitoring of fertility trends over time.

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• 2.62 mbCrop Nutrition fact sheet: Better fertiliser decisions for crop nutrition (high resolution version)Inefficient or incorrect use of fertiliser can be a substantial, but somewhat hidden, cost in the cropping operation. Using good data to better understand your existing soil nutrient status before deciding on a fertiliser strategy can optimise expenditure on fertiliser and crop yields. This Fact Sheet is the first of a series of Fact Sheets to assist growers in making better fertiliser decisions.
• 772.07 kbCrop Nutrition fact sheet: Better fertiliser decisions for crop nutrition (low resolution version)Inefficient or incorrect use of fertiliser can be a substantial, but somewhat hidden, cost in the cropping operation. Using good data to better understand your existing soil nutrient status before deciding on a fertiliser strategy can optimise expenditure on fertiliser and crop yields. This Fact Sheet is the first of a series of Fact Sheets to assist growers in making better fertiliser decisions.