Summary
This paper introduces the Soil Fertility Clock concept as a paradigm for optimising nitrogen fertiliser productivity within crop rotation systems. The framework posits that soil nutrient critical ranges should be calibrated to the requirements of the most sensitive crop in a sequence, and that maximum yield is achievable when nitrogen fertiliser efficiency approaches 1.0, contingent upon balanced supply of nitrogen-supporting nutrients. The approach emphasises the role of crop rotation timing in maintaining nutrient concentrations within critical ranges and controlling fertiliser response.
Regional applicability
The SFC concept is applicable to UK mixed and arable farming systems, where crop rotation remains a common practice. However, adoption would require calibration to UK soil types, climate conditions, and typical crop sequences, and integration with existing nutrient management guidance (e.g. RB209 nutrient management standards).
Key measures
Nitrogen fertiliser efficiency (approaching 1.0); critical nutrient content ranges; nitrogen-supporting nutrient supply; crop yield in relation to nutrient availability
Outcomes reported
The paper presents the Soil Fertility Clock (SFC) concept as a framework for managing nitrogen fertiliser efficiency through crop rotation, proposing that critical nutrient content in soil should be calibrated to the most sensitive crop in a cropping sequence. It demonstrates how balancing nitrogen with nitrogen-supporting nutrients (N-SNs) can achieve fertiliser efficiency approaching 1.0 and maximise crop yield.
Topic tags
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