There is no argument about the importance of checking the requirement for N P K in any fertiliser programme, however there are other elements that are just as important for pasture growth and stock health. After more than 100 years concentration on N P K, one or more of the other plant nutrients may now be limiting your farm production.
An appropriate soil test, combined with a pasture leaf analysis will give the information needed to make sensible decisions about your farms mineral and trace element requirements. Below are some of the vital roles that minerals play in plant growth.
N (nitrogen) major role is in photosynthesis and the production of both plant proteins and Enzymes.
P (Phosphorous) is used by plants to store energy and is an essential part of cell membranes.
K (Potassium) is utilised in plant metabolism, sugar production and transportation, enzyme production, water uptake and growth regulation.
S (Sulphur) is involved in protein production, cell functions and growth regulation.
Ca (Calcium) is the keystone for good soil structure and healthy crops. It plays a central role in maintaining an open soil structure and in promoting soil life. In plants it assists with the uptake of other minerals from the soil and strengthens cell walls. Calcium plays a vital role in Nitrogen utilisation. Once incorporated into plant cell walls Calcium is relatively immobile and therefore growing plants require a steady uptake of Calcium from the soil.
Mg (Magnesium) is found at the centre of the chlorophyll molecule and is at the heart of a plants ability to capture the energy of sunlight. Plants use this energy to manufacture sugars and starches from Carbon dioxide and water. It is strongly involved in Phosphorous utilisation and plant respiration.
B (Boron) is associated with root growth, cell elongation, plant health and importantly the uptake of Calcium and Nitrogen from the soil. Because New Zealand soils tend to be Boron deficient, including a small quantity of Boron with your Lime applications can be very beneficial.
Mn (Manganese) is required for both enzyme activation and photosynthesis.
Fe (Iron) is involved in chlorophyll production and plant respiration. It is a carrier of oxygen.
Zn (Zinc) is a plant growth stimulator, an enzyme activator.
Cu (Copper) plays a role in many plant cellular functions as well as in the production of plant enzymes, chlorophyll and sugars.
Co (Cobalt) essential in ruminant animal production of Vitamin B12.
Si (silica) essential for stem strength.
These and other trace elements have plant functions that are yet to be fully understood. It makes sense to take a pasture leaf analysis about once every three years. If you would like assistance to take soil and/or pasture samples for analysis by Hill Laboratories, (New Zealand’s largest, internationally accredited, independent, laboratory), give us a ring on (06) 8585235.
© Andrew de Lautour, PFP Fertilisers Ltd, 2016
For further information or a sample pack phone us on (06) 8585235
