Kerry Stott1, Brendan Christy2, Penny Riffkin3, Malcolm McCaskill3
1 Agriculture Victoria, Parkville Centre, Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, Carlton, Victoria, 3053.
2 Agriculture Victoria, Rutherglen Centre, Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, Rutherglen, Victoria, 3685.
3 Agriculture Victoria, Hamilton Centre, Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, Hamilton, Victoria, 3300.
Abstract
We describe how crop modelling, production economics and Monte Carlo simulation can be used to aid decision-making regarding the profitability and risks of nutrient usage in wheat production in the high-rainfall zone (HRZ) of southern Australia. Given good seasonal conditions, a case-study paddock deficient in P (10 mg/kg soil Colwell P) was shown to have high yield potential, estimated at 9.0 t/ha with profit maximising applications of N (95 kg N/ha) and P (51 kg P/ha). Profit maximising nutrient applications and yields are lower in average seasons and more so in poor seasons. The grower could respond tactically to evolving seasonal conditions by applying N in split applications. P-fertiliser application is best at or before seeding; however growers still have flexibility when considering the uncertain season ahead thanks to the flat response function at the economic optimum. The results suggest that the unrealised potential of crops in the HRZ can, in part, be explained by the cost of nutrient inputs and the risks associated with variable seasons. The analysis optimises one variable input at a time (e.g. N or P, other inputs held constant). The method is being extended to a more realistic analysis that simultaneously examines multi-variable input response processes (such as N and P or S or K) on wheat and canola yields. The purpose of this work is to equip growers and their advisors to confidently assess crop nutrient demands and limitations, predict yield potential and pay-offs associated with high input use in the HRZ environment.