Home>Product Use>Agriculture>Compost and Mulch Nutrient Calculators


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.

The calculator is an MS Excel 97-2003 spreadsheet.

Instructions for using the spreadsheet are included in the file.

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.

The calculator is an MS Excel 97-2003 spreadsheet.

Instructions for using the spreadsheet are included in the file.

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: