Grassland Fertiliser
Soil Analysis Up to 10 individual “cores” of soil are taken across 10 acres in a W pattern providing a representative sample of the soil within a field. The sample is then subjected to a wide range of laboratory tests to ascertain levels of nutrients and pH within the soil. Nutrient levels are then converted into indices. It is recommended that soils are tested every 3-5 years. pH A pH of between 6 - 7 is optimum for grass growth, nutrient uptake and inhibiting some weed growth. If the pH falls below 6, soil fertility will start to decline. Liming is a key tool to keep soil pH under control and in the optimum range. Target indices Soil indices allow management of a crop to be tailored to the state of the soil and avoid over application of fertilisers, not only saving money but also protecting the environment from dangers such as nutrient run-off. When at target index the amount of nutrient applied is enough to replace the level that is removed by the growing crop. If the soil is below index more than the crop needs is applied in order to build the soil supply of the nutrient. But when the soil has a large supply of nutrient (more than the crop will use) then often no additional fertiliser will be applied. Grass Nutrition reduced. Suggested application is into the seedbed during sowing. Nitrogen supply should be sufficient but not excessive, too much N will encourage weed growth. Sulphur is also a key nutrient for grass growth as it improves the efficiency of N use and other nutrients around the plant. For more information on grassland management call our fertiliser team on 01243 755630. Nutrient Target Index Phosphorus 2 Potassium 2- Magnesium 2 P and K are essential nutrients for root and tillering development. If the soil is deficient in these nutrients the crop will suffer, potential yield and quality will be
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