This Agriculture Victoria factsheet explains how improving nitrogen (N) fertiliser efficiency can reduce costs and lower emissions in farming systems. It outlines the main pathways of N loss, such as leaching, volatilisation and denitrification. It describes practical strategies to improve efficiency, including: #
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matching N supply to crop demand #
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selecting appropriate fertiliser products #
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timing and placement #
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using tools such as soil testing and decision support systems. #
The factsheet highlights that improving N use efficiency can increase profitability while reducing environmental impacts, particularly nitrous oxide emissions. It includes 3 videos (listed below) While focused on Victorian conditions, the principles are relevant to other Australian regions with similar farming systems. #
Videos:
Improving the bottom line through improved nitrogen fertiliser use efficiency – with Roger Armstrong [9:43] (2017)
Practical steps for landowners: soil sampling – with Greg Bekker [3:52] (2015)