This Soil CRC (Cooperative Research Centre) factsheet presents findings from a project which addressed the challenge of managing soils with more than one constraint. The soil constraints investigated included acidity, low fertility, compaction, poor structure, waterlogging, and subsoil salinity. Using both glasshouse and laboratory experiments, it tested the effectiveness of inorganic and organic amendments on soils with multiple chemical and physical constraints across NSW, Victoria and SA. Results showed that targeted applications of nitrogen and phosphorus were most effective for improving plant performance. Organic amendments also improved soil structure and biology but had variable yield outcomes. Gypsum was the best option for dispersive soils, though nutrients were still needed to lift yields. The work highlights the importance of diagnosing subsoil issues, rethinking fertiliser placement, and tailoring amendment strategies to specific soil conditions. While focused on trial sites in southern Australia, the findings are relevant for managing constrained soils nationwide [PDF 1.47 MB, 4 pages]. #
Additional resource:
Webinar: Addressing complex soil constraints – Soil CRC with Jason Condon (Charles Sturt University) (2021) [45:04]