Rural

New Zealand – June 18th, 2024 – Profile Fertilisers, at the forefront of the agricultural revolution with their innovative products underscores the critical role of alternative fertilisers in maintaining and enhancing soil microbiology, essential for sustainable agriculture. Their product, Elevate, exemplifies how alternative fertiliser solutions can benefit soil health and crop productivity.

“Alternative fertilisers like Elevate are vital for sustainable soil management, enhancing microbial health and ensuring long-term soil fertility,” says Don Henderson, Director of Profile Fertilisers.

Understanding Soil Microbiology:

Soil is teeming with life, housing billions of microorganisms per gram. These include bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, and protozoa, all playing vital roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and plant health. Healthy microbial populations are essential for converting organic matter into nutrients that plants can readily absorb, thus maintaining soil fertility and structure.

Key Benefits of Elevate:

1. Enhancing Soil Microbiology:

   – Elevate fosters a diverse and active microbial community, crucial for nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition.

2. pH Enhancement and Aluminium Reduction:

   – By raising soil pH and reducing aluminium toxicity, Elevate creates a more favourable environment for microbial life and plant growth.

3. Consistent Nutrient Supply:

   – Elevate provides a reliable supply of nutrients, supporting both plants and microbes over time. This continuous nutrient availability is vital for sustaining robust microbial populations and ensuring efficient nutrient cycling.

4. Improved Soil Structure:

   – Enhanced microbial activity leads to better soil structure, increased water retention, aeration, and root penetration, creating an ideal environment for plant growth.

Dr Gordon Rajendram, a renowned soil scientist, adds, “Elevate’s ability to balance soil pH and foster microbial activity marks a significant advancement in sustainable agriculture. Healthy soil microbiology is the cornerstone of resilient and productive farming systems.”

Conclusion:

Profile Fertilisers’ Elevate demonstrates the importance of the role that lime based products have in promoting healthy soil microbiology. By adopting such innovative solutions, farmers can achieve healthier soils and more resilient crops, contributing to a more sustainable future for agriculture.

For more information, visit Profile Fertilisers or give Don or the factory a call and the team can teach you more about the benefits of their products.

About Profile Fertilisers:

Profile Fertilisers is dedicated to providing innovative, sustainable solutions for modern agriculture, focusing on enhancing soil health and crop productivity through advanced fertiliser technologies.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory:027 222 7698
donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

In the ever-evolving field of agriculture, slow-release fertilisers have become a game-changer for farmers seeking sustainable and efficient nutrient management. Profile Fertilisers, based in New Zealand, offers an innovative range of slow-release fertilisers that differ significantly from conventional options. Understanding what sets these fertilisers apart can help farmers make informed decisions for their crops.

Traditional fertilisers often release nutrients rapidly upon application, leading to a quick but short-lived nutrient surge in the soil. This can result in nutrient leaching, where excess nutrients wash away into water systems, causing environmental issues and reducing the efficiency of fertiliser use. In contrast, slow-release fertilisers are designed to release nutrients gradually, matching the natural uptake patterns of plants.

Key Components of Slow-Release Fertilisers:

1. Coating Materials: One of the primary features of slow-release fertilisers is the use of coating materials that control the rate at which nutrients are released. These coatings can be made from natural or synthetic materials such as sulphur, polymer, or resin. The coating acts as a barrier, allowing water to penetrate slowly and dissolve the nutrients at a controlled pace.

2. Encapsulation Technology: Advanced encapsulation technology is employed to encase the fertiliser granules. This technology ensures that nutrients are released over an extended period, typically ranging from several weeks to months. The rate of release can be precisely tailored based on the crop’s nutrient needs and environmental conditions.

3. Controlled Solubility: The solubility of the fertiliser components is another critical factor. Slow-release fertilisers are formulated with nutrient compounds that dissolve slowly in water. This controlled solubility prevents the rapid depletion of nutrients and ensures a consistent supply to the plants.

4. Microbial Decomposition: Some slow-release fertilisers incorporate organic materials that require microbial decomposition to release nutrients. This natural process not only provides a steady nutrient flow but also enhances soil health by promoting beneficial microbial activity.

Profile Fertilisers’ commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in their range of slow-release fertilisers. These products are designed not only to meet the nutritional needs of crops but also to align with the principles of sustainable agriculture. By understanding the science behind slow-release fertilisers, farmers can better appreciate their benefits and make choices that support both their productivity and the environment.

In conclusion, slow-release fertilisers from Profile Fertilisers offer a sophisticated solution to the challenges of modern agriculture. With advanced coating technologies, controlled solubility, and microbial decomposition, these fertilisers provide a steady and efficient nutrient supply, fostering sustainable farming practices in New Zealand and beyond.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory: 027 222 7698
donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

The Wairepo Catchment Group and the Omarama Stream Water Users Group of Mackenzie Country recently hosted a presentation titled “Advancing Sustainable Agriculture in New Zealand.” The event featured Dr Gordon Rajendram, a soil scientist and independent consultant, and Allan Piercy, managing director of Agraforum New Zealand. Held on 29 April 2024 in Twizel. The talk emphasised the urgent need to reduce nitrate N leaching by half to maintain farming consents, given the region’s low rainfall, cold winters, and predominant dairying, cattle and sheep farming. In order to farm sustainability in this area, there needs to be a whole catchment approach.

Dr Rajendram explained that the area’s soils, with an Anion Storage Capacity (ASC) averaging around 15% and low Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), are not conducive to retaining nutrients. This results in significant leaching losses, especially with higher stocking rates and cattle grazing on pastoral land. Nutrient loading rates in urine patches can be as high as 600-900 kg of nitrogen and potassium, which penetrate below the pasture root zone and leach into waterways.

Twizel experiences low annual rainfall, averaging around 700 mm, and cold temperatures, with winter lows often dropping below freezing. “These conditions hinder nutrient retention and increase the likelihood of leaching. The region relies on irrigation, which is vital for pasture production.” Dr Rajendram emphasised the importance of water availability for effective farming and practical solutions such as using biochar/humates (pure carbon source) to bind nitrogen and other nutrients, use of stand off pads/herd homes to reduce urination events on paddocks or reducing cattle/cow numbers to mitigate environmental impacts. If for instance the cattle were on stand off pads or a herd home for half a day, the nitrate leaching into water ways will reduce by half of what it is at present.

Dr. Rajendram explained that if pure carbon such as Biochar was used and was incorporated into the soil to achieve an approximate 10% biochar/90% soil ratio, it would reduce nitrate leaching down to zero. Any farmer can make biochar from Wilding pines which is a pest in the Mackenzie basin.  Rajendram explains that Trevor Richards of Biochar NZ gave a practical demonstration on a Twizel farm on making biochar in pits using Wilding pines.  

 Allan Piercy’s Contributions from Agraforum New Zealand

Following Dr Rajendram’s presentation, Allan Piercy discussed Agraforum New Zealand’s role in providing solutions to nitrate N leaching. Piercy introduced several key products designed to enhance pasture production while reducing fertiliser dependency. A highlight of his talk was El-I-Tech’s Biodynamic N, a product that facilitates biological nitrogen fixation, significantly reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers.

Piercy emphasised that integrating these products into nutrient management plans can significantly reduce nutrient leaching and improve soil health. Other notable products mentioned included:

• EnviroCal: Improves soil structure and water penetration, enhancing drought resistance.
• ComCat: Activates plants’ root growth and defence mechanisms, increasing stress resistance and improving crop/product growth.
• ZumSil: Enhances phosphate and mineral uptake, improving soil texture and water retention.

“Our products offer a practical solution to nutrient management challenges, helping farmers reduce leaching and improve soil health for long-term sustainability.” – Allan Piercy, Managing Director of Agraforum New Zealand

Piercy emphasised that integrating these products into a nutrient management plan can significantly reduce nutrient leaching and improve soil health. Agraforum New Zealand’s focus on sustainable farming practices ensures that their solutions not only address immediate nutrient retention issues but also contribute to long-term soil health and productivity.

These insights and solutions provide a comprehensive approach to tackling the nitrate N leaching challenge in Twizel, ensuring sustainable and productive farming practices. For more information on Agraforum New Zealand’s products, visit Agraforum New Zealand Products.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Agraforum New Zealand

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

www.agraforum.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Soil magnetism plays a crucial role in soil health, affecting nutrient availability, soil structure, and microbial activity. An often-overlooked cause of soil compaction is the loss of electrical charge in soil colloids—tiny charged particles essential for maintaining soil structure. This disruption, caused by excessive salts, sodium, and poor agricultural practices, weakens soil colloids, leading to compaction and degradation.

Envirocal, a calcium-based soil conditioner, addresses these issues by enhancing the electrical charge of soil colloids. Calcium helps bind soil particles together into aggregates, improving soil structure and health. This creates a favourable environment for soil microbes, which are vital for forming soil aggregates and enhancing soil structure through the production of glomalin.

Correcting Soil Compaction

Compaction, often seen as a result of heavy machinery or excess rainfall, actually stems from the loss of electrical charge in soil colloids. These colloids act like magnets, with internal and external electrical charges that bind them into aggregates by attracting a balance of cations and anions. When this balance is disrupted by excessive salts (found in most fertilisers, herbicides, insecticides, and pesticides), sodium, or poor agricultural practices, the colloids weaken and disperse, leading to soil degradation and erosion.

The key to mitigating compaction lies in correcting mineral balances, particularly by increasing available calcium. This enhances the electrical charge of soil colloids, promoting aggregation and improving soil health. Improved soil structure also fosters a hospitable environment for soil microbes, crucial for forming soil aggregates and enhancing soil structure through glomalin production.

Addressing soil compaction and enhancing soil magnetism with Envirocal is essential for sustainable farming. By improving soil structure and nutrient availability, Envirocal helps create a healthier soil environment, leading to better crop yields and long-term soil health. As highlighted by Agraforum New Zealand, focusing on correcting the underlying causes of compaction is crucial for maintaining productive and sustainable agricultural practices.

Contact Agraforum New Zealand

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

Winter presents unique challenges for maintaining soil health and ensuring robust forage growth. Cold temperatures and heavy rainfall can lead to soil compaction and nutrient leaching, affecting crop productivity. Profile Fertilisers offers solutions to these issues, emphasising the importance of tailored fertilisation strategies to maintain soil vitality during the winter months.

Effective winter soil management begins with understanding the specific needs of your soil. Regular soil testing is crucial to identify nutrient deficiencies and tailor fertilisation strategies accordingly. Profile Fertilisers provides comprehensive soil testing services, allowing farmers to make informed decisions about nutrient applications.

Heavy machinery use and wet conditions can lead to soil compaction, hindering root growth and reducing soil aeration. To mitigate this, consider using soil conditioners and gypsum-based products to improve soil structure and drainage. These amendments help maintain porosity, ensuring roots have access to essential nutrients and oxygen.

Winter rains can cause nutrient leaching, depleting soil of essential elements. Applying slow-release fertilisers can help maintain nutrient availability throughout the season. Profile Fertilisers offers a range of products designed to enhance nutrient retention and support plant health during winter.

Incorporating cover crops during winter can improve soil structure, reduce erosion, and enhance organic matter content. Cover crops like clover and rye can fix nitrogen and protect soil from harsh weather conditions, creating a healthier environment for subsequent plantings.

Profile Fertilisers advocates for customised fertilisation plans based on soil test results. By addressing specific soil needs, farmers can optimise nutrient uptake and improve forage growth, even in challenging winter conditions.

Maintaining soil health during winter is crucial for sustainable farming. With tailored solutions from Profile Fertilisers, farmers can effectively manage soil compaction, nutrient retention, and overall soil vitality, ensuring robust forage growth and soil health year-round.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory:027 222 7698
donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Volcanic soils, rich in unique minerals such as allophane, play a pivotal role in New Zealand’s agricultural success and environmental sustainability. Dr. Gordon Rajendram, a leading soil scientist, explains that allophane, an amorphous mineral found predominantly in the volcanic ash soils of regions like Waikato and Taranaki, significantly enhances carbon sequestration capabilities, which is crucial in the fight against climate change.

Carbon sequestration in soils is a natural way of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in a solid form. In New Zealand, volcanic soils have demonstrated a remarkable ability to store carbon, with carbon levels reaching 10-12% in some areas. This high organic content not only bolsters soil fertility but also contributes to a healthier microbial environment, which is essential for sustainable agricultural practices.

“Allophane’s structure allows these soils to lock in carbon effectively, making them less prone to the typical losses seen in other soil types,” Dr. Rajendram notes. “This characteristic is vitally important for maintaining soil health and long-term agricultural productivity.”

Moreover, the presence of allophane influences the physical properties of soil, such as texture and water retention, which are beneficial for plant growth. Its ability to bind with organic matter reduces the rate at which carbon decomposes, thereby keeping it stored in the soil for longer periods. This process not only improves the soil’s structure but also its resistance to erosion and degradation.

Dr. Rajendram underscores that understanding the interaction between allophane and organic carbon offers significant insights into sustainable land management practices. By promoting the health of volcanic soils, New Zealand can continue to lead in sustainable agriculture, leveraging its unique geological assets to benefit both the environment and farming communities. The ongoing research and management strategies aimed at enhancing carbon sequestration in these soils not only address global environmental concerns but also support the agricultural sector crucial to New Zealand’s economy.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Soil compaction is an often-overlooked factor that can significantly impact root development in plants, leading to reduced forage growth on the surface. This physical phenomenon occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing pore space and hindering the movement of air, water, and nutrients through the soil. As Dr Gordon Rajendram, a renowned soil scientist, explains, “Compacted soil creates a hostile environment for roots, limiting their growth and ultimately affecting plant health and productivity.” Consequently, compacted soil presents a challenging environment for root growth, which in turn affects the overall health and productivity of forage crops. Agraforum New Zealand delves into the impact of soil compaction on plant roots and surface forage growth.

The root system of a plant is essential for its ability to access water and nutrients, anchor itself in the soil, and interact with beneficial soil organisms. In compacted soils, the restricted pore space limits root penetration, often causing roots to grow horizontally rather than vertically. This shallow root system reduces the plant’s ability to access deeper soil layers where moisture and nutrients are often more plentiful, particularly during dry periods. Consequently, plants growing in compacted soils are more susceptible to drought stress and nutrient deficiencies.

Moreover, the restricted root growth in compacted soils affects the plant’s ability to establish a robust and extensive root system. This limitation can lead to reduced plant vigour and lower biomass production. For forage crops, this translates to less available forage for livestock, which can have significant economic implications for farmers. Compacted soil not only limits root depth and growth but also affects the soil’s ability to support healthy microbial activity, further reducing the soil’s fertility and the quality of the forage produced.

Soil testing is crucial for identifying compaction issues and determining the appropriate corrective measures. Products such as Envirocal and ComCat are beneficial in mitigating soil compaction. Envirocal, a calcium-based soil conditioner, helps to improve soil structure, while ComCat, a biostimulant, enhances root growth and overall plant health. These products, when used in conjunction with good soil management practices, can significantly reduce the impact of soil compaction.

In conclusion, soil compaction poses a serious threat to root development and forage growth. By understanding the implications of compacted soils and adopting appropriate management practices, farmers can improve root health, enhance forage production, and ensure the sustainability of their farming systems. As highlighted by Agraforum New Zealand, addressing soil compaction is crucial for maintaining productive and sustainable agricultural practices.

Contact Agraforum New Zealand

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

As winter approaches, farmers and lifestyle block owners should turn their attention to soil preparation. The health of your soil during the colder months is crucial for a thriving crop or pasture come spring. By taking a few essential steps now, you can ensure your soil remains fertile and ready for the growing season. Profile Fertilisers offers a range of products that can help maintain and enhance soil health throughout winter.

Firstly, it’s important to clean up your fields and paddocks. Remove any dead plants, weeds, and debris that can harbour pests and diseases over winter. Once your land is clear, consider adding a layer of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This not only improves soil structure but also provides essential nutrients that will slowly release over winter.

Winter is also an excellent time to test your soil. Knowing its pH and nutrient levels allows you to make informed decisions about fertilisation. Dr Gordon Rajendram, a renowned soil scientist, emphasises, “Regular soil testing is essential for understanding your soil’s unique needs. It allows you to apply the right nutrients in the right amounts, ensuring optimal soil health and crop productivity.”

One key aspect of winter soil preparation is protecting the soil from erosion and nutrient loss. Cover crops, such as clover or rye, can be sown in late autumn. These crops help prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and, when turned into the soil in spring, add valuable organic matter. Profile Fertilisers’ range of soil conditioners can also be beneficial, improving soil texture and moisture retention.

Additionally, applying a slow-release fertiliser in late autumn can provide a steady supply of nutrients throughout winter. Profile Fertilisers’ products are designed to work with the natural processes of the soil, ensuring that nutrients are available when plants need them most.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your soil remains healthy and productive throughout winter. With the help of Profile Fertilisers, you can look forward to a bountiful and vibrant crop or pasture come spring. Preparing your soil now sets the stage for a successful and prosperous growing season ahead.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory: 027 222 7698
donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

The rich tapestry of New Zealand’s soil types offers a unique canvas for various farming styles and types of produce, each adapted to the specific characteristics of local soils. From the volcanic terrains of the North Island to the sedimentary expanses of the South, Dr Gordon Rajendram understands that leveraging these soil properties is key to optimising agricultural productivity and sustainability.

In the North Island, the volcanic soils, particularly those in Waikato and Taranaki, are highly prized for their fertility. These soils are rich in allophane, a mineral that enhances nutrient and water retention, making them ideal for dairy farming. Dr Gordon Rajendram, states, “The exceptional structure of volcanic soils supports robust root systems, which is crucial for pasture-based dairy farming—a predominant agricultural activity in these regions.”

Sedimentary soils, which are widespread in the Canterbury plains of the South Island, present different challenges and opportunities. These soils, with typically lower organic matter, are more prone to nutrient depletion and require careful management to support intensive farming practices. “In Canterbury, the sedimentary soils are primarily utilised for dairy farming as well, but the approach here focuses heavily on soil conservation techniques to prevent erosion and maintain soil health,” explains Dr Rajendram.

Additionally, New Zealand’s varied climate and soil types allow for diverse horticultural pursuits. Peaty soils in wetter areas, like parts of Waikato, are especially suited for cultivating specialty crops such as berries and market vegetables, which thrive in the moisture-retentive, nutrient-rich conditions. In contrast, the drier regions, with their clay-rich soils, are excellent for vineyards and orchards, where controlled water retention is beneficial.

Understanding these soil-specific requirements has led to tailored farming practices across New Zealand. From rotational grazing that minimizes soil compaction in dairy regions to precision agriculture techniques that enhance crop yields in horticultural areas, farmers are adapting their methods to ensure that they are working in harmony with their environment. “By matching farming practices with soil types, New Zealand’s farmers can maximise both yield and sustainability, securing the agricultural industry’s future and preserving the natural health of our landscapes,” concludes Dr Rajendram.

Dr Rajendram feels that this focused approach to agriculture ensures that New Zealand not only maintains its reputation for high-quality produce but also protects its natural resources for future generations.

 Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

In modern agriculture, sustainable practices are crucial for maintaining soil health and ensuring long-term productivity. Profile Fertilisers offers an innovative approach to achieving this balance through the use of slow-release fertilisers. These fertilisers, designed to provide a steady supply of essential nutrients over an extended period, offer significant benefits for both the environment and agricultural efficiency.

Slow-release fertilisers help maintain consistent nutrient levels in the soil, which is vital for optimal plant growth. Traditional fertilisers can release nutrients rapidly, leading to an initial surge in availability followed by a sharp decline. This fluctuation can cause nutrient leaching, where essential elements seep away from the soil into waterways, leading to pollution and wasted resources. In contrast, slow-release fertilisers minimise this risk by gradually dispensing nutrients, ensuring plants receive a steady supply throughout their growth cycle.

The environmental advantages of slow-release fertilisers are substantial. By reducing nutrient leaching, these fertilisers help preserve water quality in nearby rivers, lakes, and groundwater. This is particularly important in regions where agricultural runoff has historically contributed to water pollution and ecosystem degradation. Additionally, the consistent nutrient supply reduces the need for frequent fertiliser applications, cutting down on fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation and application processes. This reduction in carbon footprint aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promotes more sustainable farming practices.

Moreover, the economic benefits for farmers are significant. With slow-release fertilisers, the frequency of applications is reduced, which translates into lower labour and resource costs. Farmers can achieve the same or better crop yields with fewer inputs, enhancing the overall efficiency of their operations. This approach not only saves money but also ensures that farming practices are more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Profile Fertilisers’ commitment to sustainable agriculture is exemplified by their product Enforcer, a slow-release, environmentally friendly fertiliser. Enforcer’s balanced formulation and reduced application frequency make it an excellent choice for farmers looking to optimise plant nutrition while contributing to a healthier environment. By adopting slow-release fertilisers, farmers can achieve better crop outcomes and promote a sustainable future for agriculture.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory: 027 222 7698
donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz