GRAIN growers across north-west Victoria who might be considering subsoil amelioration on their farms can now go to Agriculture Victoria’s new dedicated webpage and support guide to help navigate the decision-making process.
Agriculture Victoria land management extension officer Adam Buzza said subsoil amelioration was a land management practice where organic matter is typically injected into the subsoil using a specialised deep ripping machine.
“Our online resources provide decision support on when to consider subsoil amelioration, when it’s least effective, what it costs and guides on how different subsoil types respond,” Mr Buzza said.
“Subsoil amelioration aims to improve nutrient availability, water movement and root development for better crop growing conditions and a higher yield at harvest time.
“Research shows subsoil amelioration can increase grain yields by an average of 12 per cent, but its effectiveness is dependent on factors such as average annual rainfall, subsoil type and any constraints such as salinity or water logging.
“It’s important to note amelioration upfront costs can be above $2000 per hectare and for some subsoils this is not a cost-effective option.”
Mr Buzza said the decision support guide is available in the grains, pulses and cereals section of the Agriculture Victoria website.
