CFIG Precision Agriculture Research

Optimising fertilizer rates according to production zone.

Kym and Fleur Wilkinson

Introduction: To investigate the profitability of fertilising according to productivity zones within an individual paddock.

Rotation : Canola 99 / Barley 00 / Lupins 01 / Wheat 02

2002 crop : Wheat Noodle

Sowing date: - 16/5/02 (Sown into marginal moisture - completely germinated on next rain)

1T/ha lime applied pre seeding

Fertiliser applied
The nitrogen rates have been determined assuming the following estimated yields in each zone.

Treatment:

Ideally the high input plots would be supplied with an additional 25 units of Nitrogen (50kg urea). This would supply adequate nitrogen for a 3T wheat crop at 10% protein (in the highest production areas).

Measurement of response.
The trial paddock will be flown over by Air Agronomics (2M resolution) to give indication of biomass response to nitrogen rates.

Plots will be harvested according to production zone with a weight trailor at harvest.