Elements and Performance Criteria
- Monitor indicators of soil fertility
- Work is undertaken in an environmentally appropriate manner and according to workplace information, principles of organic agriculture, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements and enterprise guidelines.
- Soil testing is conducted at reference sites according to enterprise procedures and organic industry standards.
- Soil acidity or alkalinity (pH), mineral balances and organic matter levels are assessed and recorded.
- Soil texture, structure, salinity and sodicity are assessed and recorded.
- Soil biological activity is assessed and recorded
- Soil condition is assessed for drainage, compaction, aeration and water infiltration in relation to requirements for desired plant growth for selected species.
- Results are analysed to identify trends in soil health and fertility and areas for improvement.
- Assess soil-related factors for selected plants
- Nutritional requirements of selected plant species are identified.
- Soil analyses to be conducted and suitable testing facilities are selected.
- Plant tissue sample collection is conducted according to enterprise procedures and requirements of testing facility.
- Results of tissue testing are combined with observations of plant vigour and productivity to determine management and input requirements of the farming system.
- Select and implement allowable techniques and inputs to optimise soil fertility
- Range of allowable inputs is identified according to requirements of the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce.
- Cultural practices to enhance nutrient cycling are identified and implemented.
- Appropriate inputs are calculated, based on soil/plant analyses, crop removal and plant/animal observations.
- Cover crop and pasture systems are selected and managed.
- Mulching and composting systems are developed, applied and monitored.
- Rotations to optimise soil fertility are designed and implemented.
- Cultural practices to enhance soil fertility are selected and implemented.