ISHS Acta Horticulturae 670: I International Symposium on Root and Tuber Crops: Food Down Under
PARJIB_EXPRESS - SOFTWARE PROVIDING AN ECONOMIC BASIS FOR FERTILISER RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ROOT AND TUBER CROPS |
| Authors: | J.B. Reid, T.J. van der Weerden, M.W. Willimott |
| Keywords: | soil nutrient supply, yield response, decision support system |
| Abstract:
Predicting the correct amount of fertilizer for root and tuber crops is essential for maximizing profits. Traditionally fertilizer recommendations have been based on estimates of the amount of nutrients taken up or removed by the crop. A more effective alternative is to integrate information on fertilizer applied, its cost, predicted yield and product value, thus allowing the grower to select a rate that optimizes the return per hectare. Yield response to fertilizer, therefore, is a critical variable. We describe a decision support tool called PARJIB_Express that provides growers with information on yield and economic responses to fertilizer inputs, helping them to maximize profits. The user is presented with a graphs illustrating how yield and financial returns respond to fertilizer inputs. Crop calibrations exist for several crops, including carrots, and field trials are underway to develop a calibration for potatoes. | |
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