Increasing adoption of new techniques combining physical, chemical and plant based interventions to improve soil function on Eyre Peninsula

Trials and demonstrations involving soil mixing either with a spader or ripping with inclusion plates have been shown to increase yields on sandy soils on Eyre Peninsula (EP). Many of these trials have included the addition of organic material incorporated at rates of 5-10 t/ha. Whilst generally these treatments have provided yield increases for a number of years post application, the rates applied have proven to be uneconomic (EPFS 2019, p 71). This project was originally developed by the Lower Eyre AgDevelopment Association (LEADA) with two major objectives being:1. To test ripping with inclusion plates on a wider range of soils.2. To trial rates and sources of organic matter that are practical for broadacre use.