As experienced Nutrient Advisors, we believe in the power of in-depth soil testing to unlock the full potential of your land. Recently, one of our advisors worked closely with a farm in Oxford, guiding them through the process and now we are sharing the remarkable results we achieved: 

Understanding the Farm:

Our client operates a 150-hectare sheep, beef, and dairy grazing property in the Oxford area. The dairy grazing segment spans a 30-hectare block divided into four paddocks.

Spring Soil Testing:

Paddocks underwent thorough soil testing in early spring, yielding insightful results that informed our strategy for soil enhancement.

Key Findings and Solutions:

Calcium and pH Balance: The analysis highlighted a deficiency in calcium and a need for increased pH levels. To address this, we applied 2 tonnes of Ag-Lime initially.

Phosphorus and Sulphur Levels: Phosphorus and sulphate levels were deemed adequate, forming a solid foundation for nutrient balance.

Attention to Magnesium, Potassium, and Sodium: While phosphorus and sulphur were satisfactory, attention was recommended for magnesium, potassium, and sodium levels to ensure optimal plant development.

Trace Elements Optimization: Boron, copper, and zinc deficiencies were identified, prompting consideration in a nutrient mix to maximize crop yield.

Production Targets and Irrigation Strategy: The farm aims for a consistent production target of 15–17 tonnes per hectare, requiring strategic irrigation practices. Irrigation is employed after crop germination and for follow-up fertilization, maximizing water usage and crop health.

Fertiliser recommendations and Results:

After consideration of the results we developed a base fertilizer composition that included nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, magnesium, boron, copper, zinc, and humate, meticulously applied at a cost-effective rate.

Follow-up applications of urea and boron further enhanced crop development, resulting in exceptional colour and density without signs of nutrient deficiencies or pest infestation.

In summary, specialized crop soil testing, coupled with expert guidance, can optimize fertiliser  strategies, ultimately maximizing yield and cost-efficiency.

To schedule a specialized crop soil test and receive a free on-farm appraisal, contact us today. With the right approach, you can achieve optimal results and maximize your agricultural investment.

Contact us to schedule a soil test

Mainfert prioritises monitoring and checking paddocks and crops year-round to achieve optimal results for farmers.

On December 13th, 2022, a fertiliser mix of NPK+Mg+B was applied to a paddock near Oxford based on soil test results. The Kale seed was drilled on December 15th, and no further fertilisation was applied.

The results:

Recent soil tests showed significantly higher levels of nitrogen (171 kg/ha) enough to manage crop maturity, which reduced the need for urea and made it more affordable for the farmer to apply the correct nutrients.

The images below show a well-grown crop that is estimated to produce 16-18 tonnes dry matter per ha. Mainfert and the client are pleased with the results of the targeted formulated mix.

Contact Mainfert on 0800 222 203 or a local Nutrient Advisor to book a soil test.

Situated in the Culverden Basin, North Canterbury, this sheep, beef and cropping property has been a client of Mainfert since 2014.

This farmer has seen improving changes over the years, showing the results of a loyal and sustained approach to producing pastures and crops to maximise production by a balanced nutrient approach. A combination of Fine Particle Fertiliser for pasture and prescription granular blends for crops have made valuable production gains and sustainable environmental outcomes.

Mainfert soil test this farm each year and have the full records from when we became involved in the farm nutrient management. As can be seen from the recent soil tests result sheet below, and the photos, feed production is exceptional. The photos that relate to the soil tests are the grass-clover – cattle grazing photos. The other photos are of a corn crop for Talley’s. These crops are always at the high end, last year yielding 27 tonne of corn per hectare. The farmer has gained praise for his approach to the benefits of his nutrient management.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Mainfert has been in business for over 30 years and has a specific process and approach that we work through with you to ensure you are getting the best results possible. We pride ourselves on focusing on the client, the farming system and the soil rather than just selling standard products.

Below is the process we followed to get several paddocks on a farm near Oxford producing better than they have for many years.

Step 1:  

A comprehensive soil test was carried out to determine what nutrients and biology were needed to get the paddocks heading in the correct direction. The results (below) showed low ASC and CEC, so soluble types of fertilisers would not help and would be a waste of resources and money. These paddocks are being used as a benchmark for ongoing crops and applications of nutrients for the remainder of the property.  

Step 2: 

A crop was chosen which would begin the process of regeneration without taking too many nutrients from the soil, and aid in getting soil life and aeration going with an application of lime to raise the pH and Calcium levels also balance the higher magnesium levels. 

Step 3: 

A simple mix of nutrients was recommended to start the slow process of increasing the soil anion levels. Slow-release Phosphorous in the form of Mainphos 18, Elemental Sulphur, Salt and the trace elements boron, copper, zinc, and molybdenum.  

The results speak for themselves in the images below, a huge growth response, fast recovery and now into the second year. The cattle and deer have taken well to the multi-species mixes and the farmer has been well rewarded with paddocks that now produce better than average levels of good quality pasture through the seasons without the reliance on nitrogen based fertilsers.

• 

• 

•