Nutrient problems in sown pasture on an acid soil. I. Survey of the problems and suggested corrective treatments

Abstract

A systematic study was made of nutrient problems associated with regression in the productivity of sown pasture on an acid soil on the Southern Tableland, NSW. Soil deficiencies of calcium, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, potassium, molybdenum, boron and possibly zinc, were demonstrated, and the first report of copper deficiency on a highland soil is recorded. A pH effect was also involved. The remedial fertilizer treatments developed, increased pasture productivity to a level approaching average yields for Southern Tableland soils. The findings are also relevant to horticultural and forest production in the area, and could be useful in regeneration of native species on these soils in National Parks.