Why Yield Can Vary So Much Within Cotton Fields

Answering the question: Why does that cotton field yield 3.55 ba/ha less than its neighbour?

We have all wondered why yield can vary so much within cotton fields and from field to field. There a some easy answers, too much drainage, not enough drainage, different soil types and so on. Well Gunasekhar Nachimuthu and his colleagues at NSW DPI took on the challenge to find out exactly that, what soil properties drive the yield differences. A paired-field comparison was used with 5 farms across the Gwydir, Macquarie and MAI cotton growing areas. The paired fields ranged in yield differences of up to 3.55ba/ha in the Riverina to 2.3 ba/ha in the Gwydir. Soil sodicity was negatively related to lint yield at selected sites in all 3 valley’s. Often the fields are treated the same from a cost perspective, so at $650/ba these numbers add up. These differences were measured year on year so the opportunity to improve the situation are multiplied. Imagine being able to manage these differences, either by reducing inputs to match the productivity or to improve the soil condition via amelioration. OptiSoil gives you the opportunity to do this. The first way to manage is to measure.

OptiSoil offers a range of diagnostic services to help farmers optimise their soil health and crop yields. From customised soil sampling and advanced laboratory analysis to high-resolution soil mapping and detailed soil pit classification, OptiSoil provides the tools and expertise needed for effective soil management. Our independent soil advice ensures unbiased, data-driven recommendations tailored to each farm's unique needs.

By leveraging these insights and solutions, farmers can enhance soil health, optimise resource use, and achieve higher crop yields. Please find the research paper in the PDF below.

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