This SoilCQuest manual explains how grain growers can use intercropping to improve productivity, soil function and system resilience. It describes how two crop species – commonly a cereal and a legume – can be grown together so their complementary traits improve nitrogen supply, nutrient use, ground cover and weed suppression. The guide outlines practical considerations including species selection, sowing configurations, fertiliser management, machinery requirements and harvest strategies, and draws on Australian research and grower experience to highlight potential benefits and challenges. It includes a grower case study from Central Western NSW. While the examples focus mainly on southern Australian grain-growing systems, the principles are relevant to other Australian cropping regions [PDF 2.9 MB, 8 pages].#
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.
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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 ScientistÂ
