The Value of Phosphate in the Rhizosphere: The establishment of perennial crops is a long-term investment.

Soil corrections are very important. Phosphate and potassium are addressed if necessary, as well as lime and gypsum requirements. This must be broadcasted before tillage is done.

Soil preparation will uplift any limiting factors and create an ideal profile in which the roots can develop. While all the soil preparations are being done, the value of phosphate in the direct root environment is still underestimated.  This is an important practice and is even more important in virgin soils than in soils that have been previously cultivated.

There are three mechanisms how a root can absorb nutrients, for example – mass flow, diffusion or interception.  The latter is how phosphate is taken up. The poor movement of phosphate in the soil makes its placement very important. Atlantic Fertilisers addresses the issue with Bio Rock. 

Bio Rock consists of composted chicken manure enriched with soft rock phosphate, which is then pelletised. Bio Rock was developed to apply phosphate(and other nutrients) in the planting hole at a safe concentration, in the direct root environment, with the establishment of perennial crops.

With the correct use of Bio Rock there is no risk of root damage or the so-called potted plant effect. This practice has been followed with great success by producers for many years and gives the plants a great advantage over those established without it, especially in lighter sandy and rocky soils.

The use of Ocean Nutrition(fish hydrolysate) with Bio Rock, will further enhance the release of nutrients from the soil and organic matter. It is an amino acid that improves root development, feeds the micro-organisms in the soil, and in turn helps with the mineralisation of nutrients. Nutrients in the fish hydrolysate are also immediately accessible to the plant. This way, optimal conditions are created in the rhizosphere which promotes the development of the plants.

Make sure you use Bio Rock and Ocean Nutrition to give your crop the advantage that helps ensure success.

Fun fact:

The rhizosphere is a microbiome formed by the soil that is in immediate contact with the roots of plants.