Calculating the nitrogen benefit from legume crops – NSW (Factsheet)

This factsheet, from the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), explains that maximising the nitrogen legacy from legume crops depends on maximising biomass and ensuring high nitrogen fixation rates. These findings were based on research conducted by CSIRO and NSW DPI in southern NSW from 2017 -2020. The aim was to measure the impact of legumes on soil mineral nitrogen available to subsequent crops and the yield and dollar value of this benefit to the system. They also found that the nitrogen legacy was maximised by selecting the best legume crop, variety and sowing time for the soil type – getting the agronomy right. This factsheet includes a link to “What is the N legacy following pulses for subsequent crops and what management options are important to optimise N fixation?” paper. While these finding apply to southern NSW, they would be of value to other legume-growing regions. #

Resource Last Updated: March 17, 2026

Disclaimer:

This is a carefully curated database of important soil resources. The data base is not exhaustive but rather a library of the resources we believe are the most useful for the audience.  Each resource has been added after careful consideration against our selection criteria, including but not limited to its scientific validity, accessibility, and readability. The library generally does not include most academic research papers but may include some open-source papers written in accessible English.
 
SSA reminds users that these resources are a guide only.  Our understanding of soil science is improving continuously so it is important to check the suitability of the information for your purpose with an appropriately qualified professional such as a Registered Soil Professional or a Certified Professional Soil Scientist 
Resource Suggestion
Step 1 of 3

We welcome your suggestions about valuable soil resources that could be included in the Smart Soils Resource Library. Please read this information before proceeding. Please remember, this Resource Library does not include scientific journal articles.

New resources are evaluated by Soil Science Australia’s membership of soil specialists.

Each new library resource is added after careful consideration, it must:
1. demonstrate good quality soil science. The resources must be scientifically valid. Case studies that contribute significantly to the understanding of soil management in Australian regions are also accepted.
2. be relevant to Australian soils, condition, constraints and management practices
3. add value to the Resource Library. If there are multiple resources in the Resource Library on the same topic then the suggested resource must improve on the existing resources that address the topic.
4. be readily available preferably in an electronic version. Some books may be out of print but should be available in libraries or from second-hand booksellers. The file size of resources should enable easy downloading or streaming.
5. be written in language appropriate for the intended audience.

Preferably, the resource should also meet the requirements of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. to make web content more accessible and user friendly for everyone.

If your resource(s) meet the criteria, please complete the soil resource submission form

By completing this form, you acknowledge that Soil Science Australia may store your email address for future correspondence, in accordance with their privacy policy.
Resource Feedback

Your feedback on the usefulness and useability of this website is valuable to improve the user experience.