Many years of research by world-leading precision strip-till agriculture machinery manufacturer Orthman has delivered strong evidence to suggest that broadcasting of dry, granular fertiliser, specifically phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) products, does not deliver optimal results. In fact, according to the company, broadcasting these products is little different to tossing money into the wind.
Michael Petersen, the lead agronomist at Orthman, is a soil scientist with 45 years’ experience in the field and has worked in several parts of South Africa and in 10 other countries. He has seen, measured and rode on combine harvesters to monitor the results of placing dry fertiliser products precisely in the pathway of the crop’s root system.
The results, he says, are certainly worth the expense of obtaining the distribution equipment and metering system for pre-planting tillage and fertilisation.
HIGH COST OF FERTILISER
It is unlikely that fertiliser prices will decline in the future. In fact, the supply worldwide seems to be dwindling fast. This is at a time when agricultural production is increasing both in area and intensity. In other words, the demand for fertiliser will only rise, most likely resulting in further price increases.
Between 95% and 98% of the nutritional requirement for a plant to survive, grow and reproduce is collected by the roots. For many years, soil scientists and agronomists have known that P and K do not translocate much in the soil medium. Phosphorus, for example, moves only 20mm to 40mm from where it is placed.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.