Sub-optimal productivity is often reported in the deep sands that make up 20 to 30% of the cropping soils in the low rainfall Victorian Mallee region. Despite sandy soils not exhibiting common constraints such as non-wetting and soil acidity, there is evidence of unused soil water. Further investigation revealed that the low abiotic and biological fertility in the subsoil layers and the physical restriction of rooting depth are likely constraints to production on sandy soils in the Victorian Mallee.
To delve deeper into this issue, on-farm trials were conducted at two sites: Ouyen and Tempy. These trials aimed to study the interactions between crop water use, physical disturbance (deep-ripping and/or rotary spading), and the incorporation of organic and inorganic amendments.
Description In this episode we unpack compaction! If you’re considering deep ripping paddocks this year do you know where to test or where to start and stop the ripping operations? We’ve asked the experts, Research Scientists Therese McBeath and Rodrigo de Silva, the following questions: A penetrometer is a great tool to have on farm …
Continue reading “Understanding soil compaction in the Mallee”
Description In our latest podcast, special guest host Pru Cook, from Nine Creeks Consulting, catches up with Michael Moodie to discuss the hot topic of seeding successfully in a an area of the paddock that has had soil amelioration. Michael discusses the potential pitfalls and highlights important steps to consider when seeding into ameliorated areas …
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Background Sub-optimal productivity is commonly reported for the deep sands that make up 20 to 30% of the cropping soils in the low rainfall Victorian Mallee region. Diagnosis of local constraints have pointed to low fertility and the physical restriction of rooting depth as the most likely constraints to production on sands in the Victorian …
Continue reading “Sandy Soils – Sands Impact Validation Trial, Ouyen 2020”
Background There is considerable interest in strategic deep tillage (e.g. deep ripping, spading) with or without agronomic amendments (fertilisers, organic matter) to overcome physical constraints and increase water and nutrient supply within the profile of Mallee sandy soils. To investigate the potential benefits of deep ripping and the inclusion of organic matter (OM), a replicated …
Continue reading “Sandy Soils – Sands Impact Validation Trial, Tempy 2020”