What you should know about fertilisers

Soils & fertilisers

Soil acts as the natural reservoir for plant foods and although potash is soluble, very little is lost from soils because it is cleverly held by the clay particles and organic matter in the soil.

A great deal of experimentation and research in this country has established the appropriate levels of plant food for different soils to ensure full healthy crop growth. Regular analysis of soil samples from each field are taken to monitor the level of plant food reserves. Measurements are also taken of the nutrient removed in the crop and replacement of the required quantities are carefully calculated and applied for each subsequent crop grown. There is no difference between organic production and conventional farming in respect of potash needs - the principles and correct approach are the same.

Natural materials

Potash fertilisers are clearly not "artificial" or "manufactured" chemicals. They are natural materials. After consumption in the food chain, the potash content finishes up in liquid wastes and eventually returns to the seas from whence it came. Thus potash reserves are not being used-up or exhausted but simply re-cycled through a very long term system.

Role of the PDA

The Potash Development Association is an independent organisation which provides technical information and advice to improve understanding of potash in soils and plant feeding. The PDA produces advisory leaflets, provides training via seminars and conferences, supports research and liases with other organisations and Government to help co-ordinate fertiliser issues. In particular the PDA supports the activities of crop advisors who are responsible for correct fertiliser practice on farms.