Radio Transcript

Welcome to Agritalk.

We are all aware that fertiliser prices have increased significantly this year. 

Today we’ll talk about tool which could help you to more accurately assess your fertiliser requirements this year.

Soil testing is an excellent tool.

Phosphorous is an essential nutrient for plant growth and production.

An understanding of the amount and availability of Phosphorous in your soil is essential to efficient fertiliser management. 

The “Colwell P” test has been the standard soil Phosphorus test used in many states of  Australia since 1976 and has been widely calibrated across a range of different soil types.

However, it is important to note that Colwell P does not always provide a good indication of Phosphorus availability to the plant.

 Recently, a new test, has become available to improve our understanding.

 It is called the Phosphorus Buffering Index or PBI

The PBI test supports Colwell P analysis by providing a measure of tie up and leaching potential.

These tests along with the forecast needs of the crop, for Phosphorus all need to be taken into account when deciding on fertiliser application

So check with your local testing laboratories for the availability of these soil tests in your area, or call ACML/SASPAS on 1300 364 322. 

And remember it is strongly recommended that soil test results should be discussed with your agronomic consultant or fertiliser supplier.

The second tool we will talk about is a computer program called Ferti Plan

Farmers looking to achieve optimum results yet lowest cost from fertiliser applications this year should note the benefits of Ferti Plan.

The easy to use science program works on any windows based computer and takes the guesswork out of fertilising crops.

The program works out the lowest cost fertiliser rates with optimal nutrient requirements for any crop and paddock.

 Helping to achieve the best economic yield and protein targets.

 There is a free demo available on the Rural Solutions SA website.

 For further information on this story or any edition of Agritalk, please visit www.ruralsolutions.sa.gov.au, click on news, then radio.  You will find a transcript of the program along with lots of handy links to the things discussed.

Information kindly supplied by David Davenport & Terry Price, Rural Solutions SA & Ag Bureau of SA

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