Fruit Production Soil Amendment
Fairfield Fine 10mm compost grade is highly suitable for use as a soil amendment, but the compost application rate will vary, depending on soil conditions.
A soil analysis test will help to determine application rates.
A typical rate is a 50mm layer, which is mixed into the top 150-200 mm of the soil. This gives an incorporation rate of approximately 20-25% by volume. Lower inclusion rates may be necessary for salt-sensitive crops such as Primula, or where composts with higher salt levels are used.
Higher inclusion rates, up to 100 mm or more, may be required if the recipient soil is particularly poorly structured or has been depleted of nutrients.
Once the compost inclusion rate is chosen, a representative blend of soil and compost can be produced and analysed prior to planting.
This will identify the new soil characteristics, including soluble salt (expressed as electric conductivity) and organic matter content, as well as identify the appropriate fertiliser rates and pH adjustment necessary for optimum plant growth.
Composts tend to contain the full range of trace elements, e.g. zinc, copper, manganese and boron. Many conventional fertilisers do not contain trace elements; those that do are relatively expensive.
As they are only needed in small quantities, trace element applications should not be required when using compost as a soil amendment in fruit production.
Use as a Backfill
Use as a Mulch
Maintenance and Site Conditions
Use for Fruit Production - overview
