Soil constraints in Australian agriculture: Research priorities and approaches

Abstract

Key findings •• Mapping specific constraints at less than the paddock scale will better define soil constraint extent and spatial distribution. This is particularly important for areas where there are multiple interacting constraints and soil-type specific responses to amelioration. •• The potential to increase production and profitability will guide research investments into soil constraints. Advisors and producers need to ground truth any soil amelioration strategy to maximise farm readiness and adoption. •• Multiple soil constraints should always be evaluated in combination with each other, and not in isolation. •• Amelioration strategies that are practical, feasible, accessible, system-integrated, and target the major constraints are more likely to be adopted than expensive niche products. •• Machinery for applying ameliorants should be flexible to manage various soil amendment product choices. Alternatively, products should be designed to be used with existing farm machinery, so that growers can switch to different materials depending on issue, season, availability and cost.