by Jaco Cilliers

Farmers need to ensure that they use the right type of fertiliser and additives for their specific soil types to improve profitability. When testing soil samples, they also need to choose a laboratory that is up to standard. This was one of the important messages given at the FERTASA Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Symposium.

The FERTASA conference is taking place at the CSIR International Convention Centre. The theme this year is “Back to basics for the future”. The presenters are experts on various fields in the science of soil management.

Chris Gazey is a senior research scientist at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in Western Australia. He showed examples of how the farmers down under are using innovative and integrated approaches to combat soil acidity.

Prof Jude Odhiambo from the University of Venda presented on the origin and composition of different types of soil.

Prof Leon van Rensburg, from the University of the Free State, gave a presentation on electro-magnetic induction and the effects thereof on the physical soil characteristics.

The panel discussion received much attention as the delegates had the opportunity to pose questions to the experts and thus getting clarity and additional information on some of the topics that were discussed.

Other presenters at the conference include Vossie Wilsnach and dr Louis Ehlers of Omnia, dr Johan van Biljon from Kynoch and Martin Botha from Nutrico. Pius Floris from the Netherlands are addressing the guests on the difference between soil biology and root biology. Jaco Marais of UPL OpenAg will discuss bio-fertilisers and what their advantages are.