Treatments applied as stubble research continues
Text by Jacqueline Wilson
Photographs by Steve Holden
APPLICATION of additional nutrients to selected stubble plots was undertaken last month as part of the Hamilton Branch stubble and nutrient research project.
Funded by the National Landcare Programme (NLP), the project is investigating how different stubble retention systems affect nutrient leakage and organic matter levels and is being overseen by CSIRO soil scientist, Dr Clive Kirkby.
Extensive analyses of soil samples and run-off from the trial plots aims to track the movement of nutrients through the subsoils.
The 4ha trial layout features 12 plots and includes four plots of standing stubble, four plots of incorporated stubble and four plots of common practice stubble systems. The common practice plots were treated as standing stubble this season following the low amount of stubble from last season’s canola crop.
Two plots each of standing stubble and incorporated stubble received applications of high levels of phosphorus, sulphur and nitrogen to increase microbial activity and enhance the formation of stabilised organic matter that is much more resistant to leaching.
Following the application of nutrients, Hamilton Branch SFS member, Jack Donaldson used his Danish-designed He-Va Disc Roller to effectively incorporate the stubble on required plots.
Collection and sampling of run-off from the site will continue and a field day at the site is planned for coming months.
Enquiries, information and comments to:
Michelle McClure
Hamilton Branch Coordinator
Southern Farming Systems
P: 03 5572 3426
M: 0417 228 233
E: mmclure@sfs.org.au
Information current at March 2008
