Field Research & Agronomy
SUM19-03: Nutrition for high-end wheat production on ameliorated soil east of Esperance
Aim
To investigate high-end cereal nutrient growth responsecapacity after removal of soil constraints. Particularly evaluating how wheatresponds to nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizerapplication.
Trial Details
Location: Warakirri Lobethal, Boyatup, Esperance Region.
Trial Size: 44 trts x 3 reps = 132 plots.
Soil Type: Sand
Amelioration History: 2018 –2t/ha lime, canola crop.
2017 – Ripped 550-600mm, spaded 250-275mm, 2t/ha lime & 2t/ha gypsum
Crop Sown: Scepter Wheat, 90kg/ha, 17/04/2019
Results
Key Notes
- Boyatup experienced a decile 4 growing season rainfall in 2019, despite falling 40mm below the 30 year average, the consistent rainfall was beneficial in producing the high yields.
- Plant emergence averaged 131 plants/m2 and was significantly influenced by establishment P rates.
- Plant growth and yield responded strongly to P and N application but not K despite low soil K analysis.
- Applying ProBoost at10 and 20 kg N/ha late in the season – bringing total N to 90 and 100kg N/ha – did not increase yield, but did increase protein to levels higher than applying 120 or 160kg N/ha.
- The most profitable treatment under 2019 conditions was $1927/ha when 120kg N/ha, 8kg P/ha and 25kg K/ha was applied.
- ProBoost late in season increased returns from from 25% to 32% additional to nil control.
- Capitalising on removal of soil constraints by appropriate nutrition inputs can vastly improve profitability and return on amelioration investment.
Contact Local Area Manager, Nick Donkin, ndonkin@summitfertz.com.au, 0428 715 045, for more details on this trial.