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Improving supply and phosphorous use efficiency in organic farming systems

Walker, R L; Watson, C A; Rees, R M and Stockdale, E A (2006) Improving supply and phosphorous use efficiency in organic farming systems. In: Atkinson, C; Ball, B; Davies, D H K; Rees, R; Russell, G; Stockdale, E A; Watson, C A; Walker, R and Younie, D (Eds.) Aspects of Applied Biology 79, What will organic farming deliver? COR 2006, Association of Applied Biologists, pp. 311-315.

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Summary

Phosphorus (P) is an essential plant nutrient that needs to be managed carefully in organic systems so that crop yield and quality remain sustainable without contributing to environmental damage, particularly that associated with eutrophication. Under organic regulations, minimally processed rock phosphate (PR) can be used to amend low P fertility soils, although the solubility is extremely low at optimum soil pH for most crop growth (pH 6.5). This paper describes a project (PLINK) which aims to develop methods of improving P efficiency on organic farms, although the same approaches may also be applicable on conventional and low-input farms. The methodologies that the project is developing include the fermentation and composting of crop waste material with PR in order to solubilise P and make it more available to the crop. Some initial results are described here. In addition, the project will investigate the alteration of the rotation to include crops or varieties with high P uptake efficiency, or roots that possess acidifying properties which improve P availability for following crops.


EPrint Type:Conference paper, poster, etc.
Type of presentation:Poster
Keywords:Rock phosphate, solubility, organic farming, fermentation, compost
Subjects: Soil > Nutrient turnover
Environmental aspects > Air and water emissions
Crop husbandry > Composting and manuring
Research affiliation: UK > Univ. Newcastle
UK > Scottish Rural Colleges (SRUC - previously SAC)
UK > Colloquium of Organic Researchers (COR) > COR 2006
Deposited By: MILLMAN, Mrs Carol A
ID Code:10260
Deposited On:20 Dec 2006
Last Modified:12 Apr 2010 07:34
Document Language:English
Status:Published
Refereed:Not peer-reviewed

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