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The fertiliser industry has been called on to support nationwide research into the efficacy

of the new products they have introduced into pastoral agriculture in recent years intended to improve the efficiency of nitrogen use on farms.

 

Soil scientist and consultant Dr Doug Edmeades says all climate and soil variables should be covered in trials conducted by independent science providers.

 

“It is commendable that the big three fertiliser companies, Ballance, Ravensdown and Summit-Quinphos have invested significant research money into these types of products in an effort to address environmental concerns,” he said.

 

However he believed research efforts to date had been un-coordinated and fragmented, often failing to meet the requirements of good scientific research.

 

“The result is farmers are faced with a confusing array of conflicting information, often not supported by relevant and exacting research data.”

 

Dr Edmeades’ comments follow his recent review of available research on Ravensdown’s commercial inhibitor ecoN, and the release of field trial information on Summit-Quinphos’s SustaiN. SustaiN is also marketed by Ballance.

 

He concluded ecoN in its current formulation had little effect on pasture production but did have a positive effect on reducing sol nitrate levels.

 

“We may find that the product is more of an environmental tool for farmers needing to deal with nitrate leaching, than one to boost production. Further research on nitrification inhibitors is definitely needed before New Zealand farmers can use them with confidence,” he said.

 

Results from 10 field trials comparing SustaiN and urea showed very little difference in SustaiN’s performance against urea. SustaiN is urea treated with an inhibitor to reduce its breakdown in soil.  

 

“The results strongly suggest the claims made for SustaiN are unfounded. This underscores the need for more research in a planned, co-ordinated independent manner before claims are made to farmers on inhibitors’ abilities or otherwise,” said Dr Edmeades.

 

ENDS