Managing soils

Soil productivity is largely determined by its ability to provide water and nutrients to plants along with the way the soil constraints are being managed by growers. In many instances a particular soil will be constrained by more than one physical or chemical characteristic. In many cases, there are practical and profitable management options to reduce the effects of a constraint, leading to improved yields and profitability. Recognising soil constraints and their potential impact on agricultural systems is difficult, but very important. The department can provide the technical information needed for growers to understand the condition and properties of their soils, and develop management strategies to increase productivity and profitability and improve soil condition.

Articles

  • A small decrease in soil pH represents a large increase in soil acidity.

  • Agricultural lime is any product that is used to increase the pH of soil. In Western Australia, the three main sources are limesand, limestone and dolomitic lime.

  • Aluminium toxicity in the subsurface is the major problem associated with soil acidity in Western Australia.

  • Carbonate from calcium carbonate (or magnesium carbonate) neutralises acid in the soil.

  • In this section you will find detailed information on various case studies highlighting the long-term benefits of liming and different options used by farmers for incorporating lime.

  • Convert to 100% neutralising value (NV) for equal comparison and discount to allow for differences in particle size and speed of reaction.

  • In this section you will find answers to commonly asked questions from Western Australian growers and consultants about lime, liming and soil and pH testing, as well as links to other useful inform

  • Management of weeds, disease and nitrogen nutrition are ongoing challenges that limit yield potential.

  • Water repellence results in uneven wetting of soil in autumn which can result in patchy and staggered crop and pasture emergence. Sandy soils are particularly susceptible.

  • Soil wetting agents reduce the effects of repellence by lowering the surface tension of the water which improves infiltration.

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