Story: Superphosphate

Impact of regular fertiliser use

Impact of regular fertiliser use

Regular use of superphosphate fertiliser increases soil fertility and pasture production to a level which is able, in this case, to support 12 stock units over a year. A stock unit is equivalent to one ewe and lamb. If fertiliser is no longer used, productivity and stock rate gradually drop to the level supported by the natural fertility of the soil. The dotted line shows the level of productivity if the same rate of superphosphate application continues.

Using this item

Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

Source: Ravensdown

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Arthur Duncan, 'Superphosphate - Superphosphate history', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/graph/15562/impact-of-regular-fertiliser-use (accessed 19 April 2024)

Story by Arthur Duncan, published 24 Nov 2008