Demonstrating the Difference

We are delighted to be able to share with you the results just out from our project Demonstrating the Difference. As a reminder, this project investigated some commonly used fertility program approaches in grazing enterprises. Three different programs and a control were implemented on replicated, randomised strips.

Program 1 was based on DPIRD fertiliser calculations and agronomist recommendations. It involved pH adjustment and seasonal NPK and S applications with granulated fertilisers as informed by soil and plant testing.

Program 2 also followed agronomist recommendations and was based on the balancing of soil base saturation percentages and the application of organic fertilisers as determined by soil tests, as well as treatments with bio-stimulants.

Program 3 followed agroecological recommendations and involved a range of strategies to try and improve nutrient use efficiency including pH adjustment, biological and nutritional planting furrow treatments, combining fertilisers with carbon sources and/or bio-stimulants, and the application of foliar nutrient sprays, informed by soil and plant tests.

This Lower Blackwood LCDC project is hosted by Dairy Farmers Neville, Gary & Elaine Haddon and is led by consultant & agroecologist Mark Tupman of Productive Ecology with assistance from agronomist Anthony Quinlan of Soil Dynamics, and agronomist Graham Mussell of Graham Mussell Consulting.

The project is supported through funding from Soil Wise. Soil Wise is funded by the National Landcare Program Smart Farms Small Grants – an Australian Government initiative. It is supported by Healthy Estuaries WA – a State Government program.