FAQs - Soil Health
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How can we manage wind erosion?
Wind erosion can be managed through practices like maintaining ground cover, implementing windbreaks, and reducing tillage. These practices can help protect the soil surface and reduce the risk of wind erosion.
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Can regen farming help with salinity?
Regenerative agriculture can help manage salinity by improving water infiltration and use, reducing runoff, and increasing plant diversity. Some farmers also use salt-tolerant crops and pasture plants as part of their management strategy.
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With less rainfall in recent years, how can I improve water efficiency in my farm?
Improving soil organic matter through regenerative practices can help improve the water-holding capacity of soils. Practices like cover cropping and reduced tillage can also help to reduce water evaporation from the soil surface.
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How can I increase the organic matter content of my sandy soils?
Cover cropping, organic amendments (like compost or manure), and reduced tillage are some ways to increase organic matter content. Over time, these practices can improve soil structure, nutrient cycling, and water retention in sandy soils.
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What makes up healthy soil?
Healthy soil is charaterised by a good balance of the right trace elements and macro nutrients, an active and healthy biome which effectively interacts with plants to sequester carbon, and well textured, aerated soil. Soil is much more than dirt.
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This is a frequently asked question?
There is a lot of conjecture and option surrounding this but my offering is this. Start with a balanced chemistry and the rest will follow. when there is enough nourishment for a plant to grow well, the microbiome will flourish and the soil structure will improve. A biostimulant should be applied with chelated minerals that reduce deficiencies in your soil. Doing this boost efficiency and effectiveness of other inputs like febrilities.
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What are the key micro nutrients involved in soil health?
Micronutrients, although used in small amounts, play crucial roles in plant growth and production. They are involved in many physiological and biochemical functions in plants. The key ones are; Calcium, Magnesium, Boron, Iron, Molybdenum, Manganese, Zinc, Copper, and Hydrogen.
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Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio
A high C:N ratio (e.g., 30:1) indicates carbon-rich, nitrogen-deficient soil, slowing decomposition and nutrient availability. A low C:N ratio (e.g., 10:1) may result in nitrogen being released into the atmosphere. Ideally w would want a ration of 30:1 C:N
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Calcium to Boron Ratio
This ratio affects plant cell wall stability. Calcium promotes cell wall strength, while boron aids in nutrient transport. A correct Ca:B ratio (e.g., 1000:1) ensures strong, healthy cells and efficient nutrient uptake. Ideal ratios for this combination vary with soil types.
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Potassium to Magnesium Ratio
Optimal K:Mg ratios (e.g., 0.5:1) help regulate water and nutrient movement in plants. An imbalance can cause nutrient lockout, adversely affecting plant health.
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Calcium to Magnesium Ratio
This influences soil structure and pH. A balanced ratio (e.g., 7:1) promotes soil aggregation and neutral pH, benefiting plant growth and microbial life.
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Nitrogen to Phosphorus Ratio
This affects plant growth and development. Adequate N:P ratios (e.g., 10:1) ensure vigorous plant growth and robust root development.
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Nitrogen to Sulfur Ratio
This ratio is crucial for plant protein synthesis. A balanced N:S ratio (e.g., 15:1) contributes to efficient protein production in plants.
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Phosphorus to Potassium Ratio
This influences energy transfer and storage in plants. An optimal P:K ratio (e.g., 1:2) ensures energy is efficiently transferred and stored in plant tissues.