Rural

Summer brings sunshine, barbecues, and beach days – but for farmers and gardeners, it also brings a host of soil-related headaches. Dr Gordon Rajendram, an agricultural expert with a flair for solving soil dilemmas, explains the seven most common summer soil problems and how to tackle them with a bit of wit and wisdom.

1. Soil Compaction
The summer heat can turn soil into something resembling concrete. Over-grazing or heavy machinery exacerbates this issue. Introducing deep-rooted cover crops like lucerne can break up compacted layers naturally. Research shows that soil aeration through biological methods, such as deep-rooted plants improves soil structure and water infiltration, which is critical in avoiding compaction during the dry summer months.

2. Waterlogging
Summer storms can saturate the soil, reducing oxygen availability to roots. The article by Cameron et al. (2007) highlights that waterlogged soils increase denitrification losses, harming soil nitrogen balance. Installing mole drains or creating raised beds can prevent prolonged waterlogging and protect crops from stress.

3. Salinity
Excessive irrigation and high evaporation rates can cause salts to accumulate, damaging plants. Saline soils reduce the availability of water to crops. Flushing salts with good-quality water or growing salt-tolerant crops like barley can mitigate salinity until soil conditions improve.

4. Nutrient Leaching
Summer rains can wash away essential nutrients like nitrogen, a major concern highlighted in Cameron et al.’s research. Nitrate leaching not only depletes soil fertility but also contributes to groundwater contamination. Using slow-release fertilisers or applying nitrogen in smaller, frequent doses can minimise leaching. Incorporating cover crops or organic matter also improves nitrogen retention.

5. Crusting
Soil crusting occurs when rain compacts surface soil, reducing water infiltration and seedling emergence. A fine layer of mulch can protect the soil and keep it cooler, enhancing germination success rates.

6. Weeds
Weeds thrive in disturbed or nutrient-rich soils, often outcompeting crops for water and nutrients. Maintaining healthy soil structure and promptly removing weeds before they seed are vital.

7. Heat Stress
Heatwaves dry out soil, leading to reduced microbial activity and moisture levels. According to Cameron et al., maintaining soil organic matter is key to improving water retention and providing a buffer against temperature extremes. Shade cloths, mulch, and regular irrigation can keep the soil and plants cooler.

“Summer soil challenges might seem overwhelming, but with the right strategies, they can be managed effectively,” says Dr Gordon Rajendram.

Dr Rajendram’s solutions combine practical advice with a touch of humour, ensuring farmers and gardeners can enjoy their summer with healthy, thriving soil. By addressing these common issues with actionable steps, he proves that even under the blazing summer sun, soil problems don’t have to stick.

Cited Source: Cameron, K. C., Di, H. J., & Moir, J. L. (2007). Nitrogen losses from the soil/plant system: A review. New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research, 50(2), 349-359.

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

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Summer heat can significantly impact soil health by disrupting the balance of soil microbes. These tiny organisms are essential for nutrient cycling, soil structure, and crop productivity. Dr Gordon Rajendram, a soil health expert, says, “Understanding how summer temperatures affect microbial populations is key to maintaining healthy soil and good yields.”

Warmer temperatures can initially boost microbial activity, as beneficial microbes thrive in heat. However, this can lead to faster depletion of organic matter, reducing long-term fertility. If the heat becomes extreme, the microbial community may shift, with harmful pathogens outcompeting beneficial microbes. A study in Nature Microbiology highlights that rising temperatures not only influence microbial abundance but also alter the composition of soil microbial communities, which can lead to imbalances that harm soil health (Zhang et al., 2023).

Dry conditions in summer present further challenges. Moisture is critical for microbial life, and dry soils can stress or even kill microbes reliant on water. According to Microbiometer, a lack of soil moisture can shrink microbial populations and reduce their diversity, hindering vital processes like nitrogen fixation and organic matter decomposition. This often results in poorer soil quality, reduced crop yields, and increased reliance on fertilisers.

Farmers can take practical steps to protect their soil microbes:

• Mulch: Apply organic mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture, creating a stable environment for microbes.
• Add organic matter: Compost or cover crops can improve microbial diversity and soil structure, while cover crops also reduce soil heat absorption.
• Irrigate regularly: Maintaining consistent moisture levels prevents microbial stress and supports essential microbial functions.
• Use bioinoculants: These products introduce beneficial microbes to rebalance the soil and enhance fertility, particularly in stressed conditions.

“Fostering soil biodiversity is one of the best defences against the challenges of rising temperatures,” says Dr Rajendram. By adopting these sustainable practices as well as soil and pasture testing, farmers can protect their soil microbes, sustain crop productivity, and promote resilience for the future.

References:

• Zhang, Z., et al. (2023). Nature Microbiology, “Temperature-driven shifts in microbial communities impact soil health.” https://www.nature.com/articles/s41396-023-01470-5
• Microbiometer. (2023). “Seasons of Soil Microbes: How Temperature Affects Soil Microbial Activity.” https://microbiometer.com/blog/seasons-of-soil-microbes

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Dr Gordon Rajendram, a leading New Zealand soil scientist, highlights that, as New Zealand transitions from spring into summer, responsible phosphorus management is more crucial than ever. Phosphorus is a key nutrient for plant growth, but improper use can lead to harmful nutrient run-off. With regular irrigation approaching and rainfall peaking in late spring, Dr Rajendram underscores the need for proactive steps to minimise phosphorus pollution in waterways, protecting ecosystems and supporting sustainable farming.

The Role of Phosphorus in Eutrophication

In New Zealand’s waterways, phosphorus from fertiliser run-off is a significant contributor to eutrophication—a process that accelerates algae growth and depletes oxygen in water, harming aquatic life. Research shows that when phosphorus levels are unchecked, algae thrive, leading to toxic conditions for fish and other organisms. In fact, around 76% of streams in New Zealand are phosphorus-limited, meaning they are particularly sensitive to excess phosphorus inputs (McDowell, Larned, & Houlbrooke, 2010). Dr Rajendram notes that farmers’ efforts to mitigate phosphorus run-off can make an immediate difference to water health, particularly in catchment areas where excess phosphorus has historically led to water quality issues.

Effective Phosphorus Management Practices

Farmers can mitigate phosphorus run-off by tailoring fertiliser application to soil needs and monitoring soil nutrient levels through regular testing. This approach prevents over-fertilisation, conserving resources and limiting nutrient loss into waterways. One effective solution is to use less water-soluble phosphorus fertilisers, which release nutrients more gradually, giving plants more time to absorb them and reducing the risk of run-off. Additionally, applying phosphorus in alignment with crop growth cycles, such as in early spring, maximises plant uptake, further minimising the potential for nutrient loss.

Dr Rajendram advises: “We all have a duty to balance productivity with environmental responsibility. By carefully managing phosphorus use and establishing buffer zones around waterways, we can protect the integrity of New Zealand’s rivers and lakes for future generations.”

Buffer zones—areas of vegetation between farmland and water—are highly effective in trapping nutrients before they reach water systems. Additionally, cover cropping helps stabilise soils, reducing erosion and supporting long-term soil health, which naturally limits phosphorus loss.

Towards a Sustainable Approach in Phosphorus Management

Dr Rajendram underscores that responsible phosphorus management is essential for New Zealand’s environmental future. By adopting practices that limit phosphorus discharge, farmers can play a vital role in reducing eutrophication risks. McDowell et al. (2016) suggest that both regulatory and voluntary approaches are crucial to sustaining good water quality across regions, offering a way forward that respects both productivity and the environment.

References

– McDowell, R. W., Larned, S. T., & Houlbrooke, D. J. (2010). Nitrogen and phosphorus in New Zealand streams and rivers: Control and impact of eutrophication and the influence of land management. *New Zealand Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research*, 44(4), 985-995. https://doi.org/10.1080/00288330909510055

– McDowell, R. W., Dils, R. M., Collins, A. L., Flahive, K. A., Sharpley, A. N., & Quinn, J. (2016). A review of the policies and implementation of practices to decrease water quality impairment by phosphorus in New Zealand, the UK, and the US. *Nutrient Cycling in Agroecosystems*, 104, 289-305. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10705-015-9727-0

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Dr Gordon Rajendram, a leading New Zealand soil scientist and consultant for sustainable farming, explains that even slight overuse of fertiliser can result in nutrient imbalances, water pollution, and long-term soil damage. “Even if over-fertilisation isn’t a crisis now, farmers must focus on efficiency and sustainability. Applying only what is necessary protects the land and the environment,” he says.

Fertilisers contain key nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are vital for plant growth. However, if these nutrients exceed crop requirements, they can leach into groundwater or wash into nearby water bodies. Nitrogen, in particular, poses a risk as it transforms into nitrates, which can contaminate both groundwater and surface water. High nitrate concentrations not only threaten aquatic ecosystems but can also make drinking water unsafe, particularly in rural areas dependent on groundwater sources.

Dr Rajendram stresses that “soil testing is key in modern agriculture; applying excess fertiliser may seem beneficial initially, but it can lead to nutrient imbalances and soil acidification, which ultimately harms crop yields.” When excess nutrients disrupt soil pH, beneficial microorganisms that help plants absorb nutrients and resist diseases are negatively impacted. This degradation compromises soil structure and reduces its ability to retain moisture, making crops more vulnerable to drought.

In addition to environmental risks, excessive fertiliser use results in a reliance on chemical inputs, increasing farming costs. Over time, continuous over-fertilisation can lead to an accumulation of salts in the soil, which harms plant roots and reduces crop resilience. This dependency threatens both farm productivity and profitability.

To mitigate these risks, Dr Rajendram advises using precision farming techniques. “Farmers can improve both yield and sustainability by adopting best practices, such as soil nutrient testing and targeted fertiliser application,” he recommends. Technologies like GPS-guided fertiliser application allow for targeted delivery, ensuring crops receive what they need without excess.

By prioritising balanced nutrient management, Dr Rajendram believes that farmers can achieve optimal yields while protecting the health of their soil and the environment. Implementing these practices ensures that fertilisers contribute positively to crop productivity while safeguarding the long-term viability of the land.

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

AgSafe recently took part in the Clued-Up Kids program, a hands-on safety initiative designed to educate children aged 9 to 11 on essential safety skills. The event, organised by the Nelson-Marlborough District Health Board and sponsored by local Rotary and Lions Clubs, saw over 600 children from across the region participating in interactive safety stations.

This program is part of a broader safety effort led by the Marlborough Child Safety Group, which was formed in 2005. The group is comprised of local safety agencies including AgSafe, Civil Defence, and the New Zealand Police. By pooling their expertise, these agencies ensure that safety messages are clear, consistent, and effectively delivered to children through initiatives like Clued-Up Kids.

AgSafe’s focus was on quad-bike safety, a particularly important topic in rural areas. James Findlay from AgSafe explained, “AgSafe’s presentation was about quad-bike safety, as the manufacturers’ recommendations are that they are not to be ridden by people under 16 years of age, and they are not made to carry passengers”. Over 60% of the kids had either ridden a quad-bike or been a passenger on one.” Despite the clear safety guidelines, many children admitted to riding or being passengers on adult-sized quad-bikes.

The session highlighted the risks associated with not following safety guidelines. Quad bikes are useful vehicles in rural settings, but they can pose serious dangers when used incorrectly. AgSafe’s key message was simple: children under 16 should not ride adult-sized quad-bikes, and these vehicles are not designed to carry passengers.

The Clued-Up Kids program takes a multi-agency approach, with each organisation contributing to the overall safety education. Through real-life role-play scenarios, children learn vital skills to navigate potential hazards. The program has proven to be a success, providing children with the tools they need to stay safe in a variety of situations, including those involving quad bikes.

AgSafe’s participation in the event reinforces its commitment to child safety, particularly in rural areas where quad-bike use is common. The hands-on, experiential learning approach ensures that the safety messages stick with the children, empowering them to make safer choices as they grow more independent.

Contact AgSafe NZ

admin@agsafe.nz

0508safefarm (0508723332)

Contact Media PA

027 4558 7724

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One of New Zealand’s leading soil scientists Dr Gordon Rajendram emphasises the importance of understanding the nutrient balance in spring grass and the impact it can have on the health of horses and stock. Spring brings a surge in pasture growth, creating a nutrient-rich food source for grazing animals. However, this rapid growth often results in an imbalance of key nutrients, which can negatively affect animal health. Dr Rajendram’s solution is to carry out thorough pasture and soil tests to ensure the correct products are applied to the land, decreasing inefficiencies and maximising the benefits of spring grass.

 Spring grass is typically high in carbohydrates, particularly sugars and fructans, which provide quick energy to horses and stock. While beneficial, Dr Rajendram warns that excessive sugar intake can lead to problems like laminitis in horses and metabolic disorders in livestock. Additionally, the grass is often rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, which support bone strength and muscle function. However, the high potassium content can interfere with the absorption of magnesium, a crucial mineral for preventing conditions like grass tetany in cattle.

One of the key concerns Dr Rajendram identifies is the deficiency of magnesium in spring pastures, which can lead to health issues like muscle tremors, stiffness, and poor performance in both horses and stock. To counter this, he recommends pasture and soil testing as a vital step to understanding the specific nutrient composition of the pasture. Pasture and soil tests allow for targeted application of the right products, ensuring magnesium and other essential minerals are present in appropriate amounts.

Dr Gordon Rajendram explains that by conducting sasture and soil tests and applying the correct fertilisers, farmers and horse owners can optimise the nutrient profile of their pasture. This proactive approach ensures that grazing animals receive balanced nutrition, reducing the risk of health issues and enhancing overall wellbeing during the spring months.

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Earthworms are essential for healthy soil. They play a huge role in nutrient cycling and boosting soil fertility. Their natural burrowing and feeding activities create channels in the soil, which improve aeration, water flow, and root growth. These changes directly impact how productive the soil is and how well crops grow. Agraforum New Zealand understands just how important earthworms are for sustainable soil health, and their products are designed to create the right conditions to support these hardworking creatures.

Earthworms consume a large amount of organic matter, breaking it down and turning it into mineral-rich nutrients. This process not only enriches the soil directly but also encourages further mineralisation by microorganisms. As Aslam et al. (1999) point out, “Earthworms consume large amounts of soil organic matter and influence the supply of plant nutrients in the soil by increasing the rate of mineralisation of crop residues.” This nutrient cycling is vital for keeping soil fertile, especially in various agricultural systems.

However, research shows that farming practices, like tillage, can affect earthworm populations and soil health. A study in New Zealand found that converting permanent pasture to plough tillage led to a significant drop in soil microbial biomass and earthworm numbers. The research highlighted that adopting no-tillage methods can protect soils from degradation, preserving both microbial nutrients and earthworm populations (Aslam et al., 1999).

Another benefit of having a thriving earthworm population is better soil aggregation. As earthworms eat soil particles and organic matter, they secrete mucus that helps bind soil particles together. This process forms stable aggregates, maintaining soil structure, reducing erosion, and optimising water retention. Strong soil structure also helps roots access water and nutrients more effectively, making crops more resilient during dry spells.

Agraforum New Zealand has products specially designed to enhance soil health and support earthworm populations. Their soil conditioners, packed with essential nutrients like calcium, help keep the soil balanced and hospitable for earthworms. By using Agraforum’s products, farmers can improve soil structure and nutrient availability, promoting more sustainable farming practices.

Keeping earthworms active in agricultural soils is possible through simple practices like reduced tillage, adding organic matter, and maintaining soil pH. By creating an environment that supports earthworms—and using soil conditioners from Agraforum New Zealand—farmers can naturally enhance soil fertility, optimise nutrient cycling, and build a resilient farming system.

Contact Agraforum

Mobile: 0274 485 159
Email: allan@Agraforum.co.nz

www.Agraforum.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
P: 0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz

Reference:
Aslam, T., Choudhary, M.A., & Saggar, S. (1999). Tillage impacts on soil microbial biomass C, N, and P, earthworms and agronomy after two years of cropping following permanent pasture in New Zealand.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) recently released its financial stability indicators, offering a comprehensive look at the country’s current economic health. These indicators show promising signs of market stability, particularly in the housing sector, which has a ripple effect on the broader economy.

The latest data points to a more favourable lending environment, with interest rates easing. This change is attributed to an increased focus on financial resilience, creating a pathway for potential home buyers and builders to invest in new properties. Housing market indicators reveal improved affordability, as declining interest rates reduce mortgage servicing costs. Consequently, the overall risk of financial instability in the housing market is expected to decline.

According to the RBNZ’s data from 16 September 2024, the housing market continues to play a crucial role in the economy. The availability of credit, coupled with careful monitoring of household debt levels, has helped maintain financial stability. With banks adopting a more cautious lending approach and the central bank’s intervention to moderate housing market risks, the sector remains on a steady course.

Given this positive outlook, now presents an ideal time for those looking to build.

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For those interested in building in scenic locations, these properties offer expansive sections perfect for custom homes. Landmark Homes’ reputation for quality ensures your dream home will not only benefit from the current economic climate but also provide long-term value.

Contact Phillip Quay

Media PA
027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

Canterbury, New Zealand — Soil compaction has long been a significant issue for farmers, especially following severe pugging events and intensive cropping practices that compress the soil and reduce productivity. Agraforum New Zealand, a leader in soil health innovation, has developed solutions to help farmers tackle this ongoing challenge. Compacted soils suffer from reduced hydraulic conductivity, poor air permeability, and increased resistance to root growth, all of which impair crop and pasture performance and reduce plant resilience.

Research highlights the impact of pugging on pasture yields: “On a Te Kowhai soil at the DairyNZ No. 2, Ruakura Research Centre dairy farm near Hamilton, a single severe pugging event by dairy cows reduced ryegrass DM yield by 37% and clover DM yield by 52% over the following 12 months” (Menneer et al., 2005). Similarly, intensive cropping can lead to soil compaction, with heavy machinery and repeated cultivation compacting the soil, restricting root development, and reducing water infiltration.

Dr Gordon Rajendram, a leading soil scientist, explains that soil compaction from both livestock and cropping practices continues to be a major concern for farm productivity. “Compacted soils limit water infiltration, root growth, and nutrient availability,” he says, pointing out the long-lasting effects that require targeted management.

In addition to less economical mechanical solutions like aeration, Dr Gordon Rajendram emphasises the importance of chemical interventions. “Introducing calcium-based products is vital for restoring soil structure and improving porosity, allowing roots to penetrate deeper and access essential nutrients,” he notes.

Farmers can also improve soil health by incorporating organic amendments and enhancing biological activity to break up compacted layers. These methods, combined with careful grazing and cropping management, can help restore soil structure, improve water retention, and promote stronger plant growth.

Agraforum New Zealand remains committed to providing sustainable, science-driven solutions to help farmers address soil compaction, ensuring long-term productivity and resilient pastures for future generations.

Contact Agraforum New Zealand

Mobile: 0274 485 159
Email: allan@Agraforum.co.nz

www.Agraforum.co.nz

About Agraforum New Zealand

Agraforum New Zealand has been a trusted partner to the farming community for years, helping farmers reduce the environmental impacts of their operations while boosting productivity. Their approach is in-depth, considering the unique soil conditions of each farm and providing tailored solutions that address both immediate problems, such as compaction, and long-term soil sustainability.

Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
P: 0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz

References:

Crush, J.R., & Thom, E.R. Review: The effects of soil compaction on root penetration, pasture growth and persistence. AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton; DairyNZ, Private Bag 3221, Hamilton. Email: jim.crush@agresearch.co.nz.

Peter Nation has announced he is stepping down from the helm of the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, owner and operator of the 114 hectares of Mystery Creek Events Centre and the Iconic Fieldays® event, finishing up on the 20^th December this year.

“I have made the decision to step aside so I can pursue more personal interests and time with family, I feel that I am leaving Society in a very stable position with a bright future ahead” says Nation.

Nation is quick to outline that he has been “in and around Society for nearly 30 years, so the time is right”, first as the major sponsor representative as the ANZ Regional Manager Rural, and the Bank’s sponsor representative, where he supported major capital investments such as the Mystery Creek Pavilion, followed by a variety of roles within the Society before being appointed as CEO in March 2016. 

Whilst 30 years of contributions is significant, Nation states it’s been a privilege and one not without its challenges.  “There is no escaping the weight of running an event business during turbulent pandemic times, but successfully navigating such upheaval will undoubtedly go down as one of my highlights”.

Nation says “Transitioning from governance to a senior management leadership role in the same organisation is not for the faint hearted.  There are not many people who get this unique experience or opportunity to help build something that opens up a massive window across the world for New Zealand agriculture. As CEO I have been given many opportunities both in New Zealand and across the world, attending and speaking at conferences and events, hosting important international delegations, promoting agriculture and food producers while ensuring we grow New Zealand through our many activities in events”.

“I have loved every minute of this high-profile role, which included leading a high performing team, successfully staging the largest event in New Zealand annually, operating the renowned Mystery Creek Events Centre while supporting the community, youth and the many organisations that need our support. A job like this does not get much better”.

He goes on to say “I have been blessed with very sound Board and Chairs leadership. It is so important to have trust and support between the CEO and Board. This success and growth are a direct result of these relationships which include leadership and wider team, including volunteers and members.  Not many people land roles like my current one, and while my career has been full of unique opportunities, this last one will be the one that will be fondly recalled in my memory.”

Society Board Chair, Jenni Vernon states Peter has been instrumental in building enduring and trusted relationships in our community and amongst key stakeholders including local and central government, all critical to the ongoing success of the southern hemisphere’s largest agricultural Fieldays event and the Mystery Creek Events Centre’s social license to operate.  “It has been my pleasure to be Chair in Peter’s tenure as CEO and whilst change can be unsettling, Peter has set a solid foundation for the Society’s next phase having worked tirelessly to bring the organisation into the future, developing sound systems and processes that underpins the Society’s place on the world stage.  Alongside the Society Board and membership, we sincerely thank Peter, supported by his family, for his contributions and stewardship” says Vernon. 

Peter will sign off for the final time at the end of the year following the Society’s Annual Awards and celebration.

ENDS.

About the New Zealand National Fieldays Society

The New Zealand National Fieldays Society was created in 1968 to bring town and country together and to advance agriculture for the benefit of New Zealand through collaborative leadership in innovation, education, and globalisation.

The Society owns Fieldays® and operates the Mystery Creek Events Centre, supports education through grants and scholarships and gives back to the community through its charitable activities.