Making Better Use of Organic Fertilisers and Manures

Maintaining regular inputs of good quality organic matter (plant residues/inputs, organic fertiliers) can help prevent loss of organic matter and sustain soil fertility.  Soil organic matter is good for soil quality as it increases soil stability, drainage, fertility and encourages biodiversity.

Apply manures to the land to help increase soil organic matter and maintain soil structure and nutrient status.  However, it is important to know the nutrient value of the organic manures you are applying.  Testing your organic fertilisers, whether it is slurry, FYM or another input can help you ensure that you are adequately meeting the crop requirements without over applying nutrients which could then be leached from the soil and cause diffuse pollution.  This is especially important for areas farmed within an NVZ (nitrate vulnerable zone).