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Two calculators have been developed to assist compost producers
and sellers to engage in direct dialogue with growers regarding
the potential contribution of macro nutrients from the use of compost
products. The composted mulch nutrient contribution calculator
targets mulch application to orchards and vineyards; the composted
soil conditioner nutrient contribution calculator targets
the nutrient contribution from the application of digging compost
to field crops, whether in intensive or broadacre production systems.
The Composted Mulch Nutrient Contribution Calculator for Vineyards
and Orchards has been developed by the Recycled Organics
Unit via literature review and direct consultation with field researchers
to provide an initial estimate of the N, P and K nutrient loading
or nutrient contribution from the use of composted mulch relative
to a grower's normal fertiliser practices.
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The calculator is an MS Excel 97-2003 spreadsheet.
Instructions for using the spreadsheet are included in the
file.
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The Composted Soil Conditioner Nutrient Contribution Calculator
has been developed by the Recycled Organics Unit via literature
review and direct consultation with field researchers to provide
an initial estimate of the N, P and K nutrient loading or nutrient
contribution from the use of composted soil conditioner (digging
compost) relative to a grower's normal fertiliser practices.
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The calculator is an MS Excel 97-2003 spreadsheet.
Instructions for using the spreadsheet are included in the
file.
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Note that estimated nutrient contribution from compost in these
calculators is based on review of literature and direct consultation
with field researchers in Australia. The available data is acknowledged
to be inadequate for accurate calculation. The rate of nutrient
release from composts will vary due to climate, soils and management
practices, and characteristics of the compost such as maturity.
It is not suggested that the figures calculated here will be accurate
for any specific property or compost product, but figures provide
a reasonable estimate for initiating use of compost. Compost and
soil testing and/or leaf analysis should continue be used to better
inform site specific performance and to inform preferred application
rates of of compost and complimentary fertiliser. Please refer to
notes in the "Explanation" worksheet of this Excel file .
NOTE: To save the file directly
to your computer, right click on the link below and select "Save
target as", then save the file to your computer. You will
need MS Excel version 2000 or later to access this file.
The nutrient contribution calculators are complimented
by numerous associated reports including the following:
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