Long term effects of withholding phosphate application on North Island hill country: Economics

Authors

  • D.A. Clark
  • S.F. Ledgard
  • M.G. Lambert
  • M.B. O'Connor
  • A.G. Gillingham

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33584/jnzg.1990.51.1898

Abstract

Results from fertiliser cessation experiments at Ballantrae, Te Kuiti and Whatawhata, on yellow-brown earths, were used to evaluate the fertiliser cessation compared to continued application on hill country breeding ewe systems. At Balhmtrae, on farmlets previously receiving 125 kg superphosphate/ha/yr, continued fertiliser application generated a positive cash flow after 8 years. On farmIets previously receiving rates of 200-375 kg superphosphate/ha/yr positive cash flows were generated by continued fertiliser application after 4, 5 and 6 years at Te Kuiti, Whatawhata and Ballantrae respectively. Fertiliser cessation is a sound strategy to survive periods of low product price:fertiIiser cost ratio. However, it will decrease sustainable productivity and hence farm resale value. Fertiliser recommendations cannot remain constant over time but must consider: animal enterprise, product and fertiliser price, soil P status, and level of pasture utilisation. Keywords fertiliser cessation, superphosphate, Olsen P, economics, hill country, pasture production

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Published

1990-01-01

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