When produce is removed from your farm, so too are valuable nutrients. A sound soil fertility strategy includes a plan to either BUILD, MAINTAIN or MINE soil nutrients from your farm. Once nutrient levels are adequate to fuel the necessary microbial and plant processors for quality production, then maintaining those levels makes the production sustainable. Being aware of the various nutrient pools in terms of what is present in total, and the rate of the supply of available forms of nutrients is key to ensuring plant nutrition.
What’s left in your soil to support future harvests?
Years of experience show that recycled organic fertilisers like chicken manure are among the most effective and affordable ways to replenish lost nutrients and trace elements. By applying these nutrient-rich manures, you’re not just replacing what’s exported—you’re feeding your soil’s microbial life with the carbon and nitrogen they need to thrive, which in turn boosts soil health and crop performance.
Healthy soil starts with good structure. Reducing compaction from machinery and livestock, preventing waterlogging, and encouraging soil life—especially earthworms and dung beetles—can dramatically improve soil porosity and aeration. Aerobic, well-structured soils are better at releasing nutrients from organic matter and existing reserves, making them more available for your crops.
Don’t forget: rooting depth and phosphorus placement matter when planning your fertiliser strategy. The right product, applied at the right time and place, makes all the difference.