CWF5 Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS; Farmers Advancing

Research*

2004 - 2005 Central West Farming Systems Research Compendium, May 2005.

Editing & Production: Sarah Wrigley “Canobla” Condobolin 2877 and Catherine Evans CWFS. Printing: Progress Printing PO Box 151 Condobolin 2877 Ph 02 68953833. Published by: Central West Farming Systems May 2005.

CWFS Development Rob Sanderson PO Box 171 Officer: Condobolin NSW 2877 Ph 02 68951013. [email protected] CWFS Research Manager: Catherine Evans Ph 02 68951001. [email protected]

♦ Feedback on this publication is welcome; please contact Rob Sanderson, CWFS Development Officer.

♦ Disclaimer: The information presented in this compendium should not be taken as advice and may not apply to your circumstances. Readers must obtain their own advice and conduct their own investigations and assessments of any proposals they are considering, in the light of their own individual circumstances. Information is subject to change without notice and neither CWFS nor its staff or third party authors accept any liability from the interpretation or use of the information set out in this document.

♦ Please acknowledge the author and CWFS if any information is reprinted.

Background Information 1

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Thank you to the following sponsors for making the work of CWFS possible:

CWFS Principal Sponsor:

• Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC)

CWFS Gold Sponsors:

• NSW Department of Primary Industries, Condobolin ARAS • AWB

CWFS Silver Sponsors:

• Redenbach & Carey Chartered Accountants • Graincorp • Silvan • Dovuro Seeds • NAB

Thanks also to the many local businesses who contribute to the regional site operations (acknowledged in the individual site reports).

Thanks to the members for supporting CWFS, particularly those who contribute their time and expertise on the committee or to core & regional site research.

Background Information 3

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table of Contents

Page 1. CWFS Background Information Chairman's Comment...... 9 CWFS Introduction ...... 10 CWFS Group Update ...... 13 CWFS Reflections and Future...... 15 Understanding Statistics...... 17

2. CWFS Farming Systems Comparison • Core Site 2004...... 19 • Soil changes between l999 and 2004 under four fanning systems...... 27 • Soil water use under phase fanning systems at Condobolin ...... 30

3. Central Western NSW • CWFS Regional Summary (1998-2003) Central Western NSW ...... 35 • Central West NSW - The environment we work in...... 39 • CWFS Regional Site Summary...... 47

Papers in Chapters 4-13 are divided into each Regional Site. It presents a Regional Site Atlas at the start of the chapter that summarises the work from 1998 to 2003 and gives some soil and climate information. After each Regional Atlas, the 2004 trial work and some previous research are presented. 4. Alectown • Regional Atlas - Alectown...... 51 2004 Trial Results • Fungicides for strategic and tactical control of wheat leaf diseases...... 55 • Field pea nutrition trials 2004...... 63 • An evaluation of seed treatments for controlling insects and diseases in canola... 65 • The effect of sowing rate on the perfonriance of wheat in the Forbes and Parkes districts...... 72

5. Euabalong • Regional Atlas - Euabalong...... 77 2004 Trial Results • Weed control options in field peas ...... 81 • Pulse trial...... 85

6. Gunning Gap • Regional Atlas - Gunning Gap...... 89 2004 Trial Results (see also Alectown) • Sodic soil amelioration using lime and gypsum - 5 years of results ...... 94

Background Information 5 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Contents continued

7. Merriwagga • Regional Atlas - Merriwagga ...... 99 2004 Trial Results • Merriwagga CWFS Site Results 1999-2004...... 103

8. Nyngan • Regional Atlas -Nyngan...... 111 2004 Trial Results • Wheat: Susceptibility of varieties to common root rot ...... 115

9. Rankins Springs • Regional Atlas - Rankins Springs...... 117 2004 Trial Results • Alternate Fanning Systems Trial...... 121

10. Tottenham • Regional Atlas - Tottenham ...... 127 2004 Trial Results • Wheat after pulses...... 131 • Alternative crops trial...... 134

11. Ungarie • Regional Atlas - Ungarie...... 139 No 2004 Trial Results

12. Weethalle • Regional Atlas - Weethalle ...... 143 Trial Results • Silverleaf Nightshade demonstration 2000-2004...... 147 • Horehound trial 1999 ...... 150

13. Wirrinya • Regional Atlas - Wirrinya ...... 153 2004 Trial Results (see Alectown)

14. Subsoils Project • Combating sodic subsoils - is plant growth affected by sodic subsoils...... 160 • LIRAC - Long-term changes of a sodic soil 14 years after lime and gypsum application ...... 168

6 Background Information CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Contents continued

Papers in Chapter 15 are presented as part of the Low Rainfall Collaboration Project which links 5 farming systems groups working in a similar environment (Eyre Peninsula Fanning Systems, Minnipa SA, Mallee Sustainable Farming Inc. Mildura, Vic, Upper North Farming Systems, Peterborough, SA and Western Wheat project, NSW DPI). The research presented here was carried out by NSW DPI and Eyre Peninsula Farming Systems.

15. Low Rainfall Project • Barley varieties and agronomy...... 174 • Dry sowing - understanding the risks before taking the punt ...... 181 • Herbicides affect yield and nitrogen fixation in peas...... 183

16. Index for CWFS Compendiums 1998 - 2005...... 187

Background Information 7 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

NSW DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES NSW Department of Primary Industries is a state government organisation to assist the community with the production of quality food and fibre for local use and export. The functions of NSW Department of Primary Industries are research, advisory and regulatory for both agricultural plants and animals. There are several research stations and centres specialising in various agricultural production areas.

Condobolin Agricultural Research & Advisory Station The research station has been part of the local agricultural community since 1912 when it was established as a demonstration farm. There have been many varied projects over the years. The present program and staff are: Advisory Agronomy Nathan Border Drought Support Julie Greig Research Winter crop and pasture agronomy, physiology and rotations - wheat, barley, field pea and canola agronomy, water use and grain quality. Neil Fettell Nick Moody

■ High water use farming systems that integrate crops with perennial pastures - exploring ways in which perennial pastures, capable of utilizing surplus soil moisture can be best incorporated into annual farming systems Brett Honey sett Grain and Graze

Grain and Graze is a research program working with farmers and catchment groups in Australia's mixed farming zone to improve on-farm profitability and productivity while also achieving local catchment management targets. - Saltbush in farming systems - Investigating the incorporation of alleys of old man saltbush into existing mixed farming systems. Aim is to improve the reliability of forage supply in low rainfall environments and use this forage to improve farm profit and profit stability. Richard Maccallum • Involved in extending research results from projects which integrate cropping and animal- based systems. Lib by Roesner • Undertaking case studies in the Lachlan/Central West region considering economic, environmental and social factors for farming systems ranging from control-traffic, pasture cropping to the typical mixed farm business. Margaret Wynne Central West Farming Systems The Central West Farming Systems group work from the Station where the core site is located. Ten regional sites are located across the central west from Dubbo to Nyngan and Grenfell to Griffith. Catherine Evans, Robert Sanderson, Sharon Taylor, Daryl Reardon & Allan L'Estrange.

8 Background Information

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Chairman's Comment

Dear Members, 2004 has again been a challenging year for CWFS and its members. The dry conditions early in the year made planning trials etc. difficult and the late break meant all trials were sown late. When the rain did come in June, conditions improved to such an extent that we actually baled some hay from the core site at Condobolin. The tight finish again devastated yields over most of our region. We now have extensive data on how crops perform in dry years, but wouldn't it be good to see what happens in a good season?

This is the final year of the current GRDC project, so this Compendium is thicker than previous issues because it contains information from the whole project. A lot of time has been put in by staff and the executive in formulating the future direction of CWFS and a new project has been submitted to GRDC. In line with GRDC requirements the new project application is more extension than research focussed, which includes enhancing our regional sites, extension and communication work and possibly shifting the core site research focus to more demonstration work. The way we communicate with our members will be changed to reduce costs and increase effectiveness. This may mean that an expensive compendium will not be produced along with a large newsletter style publication. In their place will be more timely, one page information sheets, an enhanced web page and more extension work at regional sites.

All this work has put large demands on our staff and executive, and I wish to thank them for their efforts during the year. This year saw a change in the executive, with Bruce Watt retiring as Chairman and Ian Menzies as Treasurer, both having filled these positions since the formation of CWFS. A great effort. Also, Greg Brooke has relocated from Nyngan to Wellington and thus retired. We welcome two young replacements in Peter Stuckey and Roger Todd from Condobolin and Lawrence Higgins from Merriwagga.

The CWFS group is entering a time of change with interesting new prospects. I hope that our members are able to reap some of the benefits of our endeavours and enjoy a prosperous season in 2005.

Graham McDonald

Chairman CWFS

Background Information 9 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Central West Farming Systems Introduction

Executive Committee Members

The executive committee positions are yet to be elected, however, the executive committee members for 2005 are: => Graham McDonald "Scrublands" Condobolin ph 02 68965306. => Julie Greig Condobolin ph 02 68954773. => Chris Jones "Brotherony" Condobolin ph 02 68965360. => Graeme Mason "Westcourt" Ungarie ph 02 69759338. => John Rliodes "Sunnyside" Nelungaloo ph 02 6864 5164. =$ Peter Gordon "Montrose" Ungarie ph 02 69759048. => Stuart McDonald "Mumble Creek" Condobolin ph 02 68962950. =s> Roger Todd "Wirrinun" Condobolin ph 02 68962809 (2005). => Peter Stuckey "Murtonga" Condobolin ph 02 68962926 (2005). => Lawrence Higgins "Mamari" Merriwagga ph 69651419 (2005). Ian Menzies, Bruce Watt and Greg Brooke declined re-nomination for 2005. Thanks to Ian, Bruce and Greg for their contributions while on the Executive Committee.

Staff

Business Development Officer: Rob Sanderson ph 02 68951013. Research Manager: Catherine Evans ph 02 68951001. Technical Officer: Sharon Taylor ph 02 68951050. Technical Assistant: Allan L'Estrange. Technical Assistant: Daryl Reardon.

Farming Systems Advisors - CWFS Core Site

Farming System Advisors plan the four farming programs on the 160 ha Condobolin Farming Systems trial at the NSW DPI Agricultural Research & Advisoiy Station, Condobolin. The trial, funded by GRDC, compares the management, profitability and sustainability of four contrasting farming systems.

Traditional System: Peter Gordon "Montrose" Ungarie. Reduced Tillage with Livestock: Ian Davis "Gapview" Lake Cargelligo. Continuous Cropping: Graeme Mason "Westcourt" Ungarie. Perennial Pasture: Peter Weston "Yalgoo" Nymagee.

The Members of CWFS thank the people listed above for their contribution to the successful operation of CWFS.

10 Background Information CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Sites The following regional site chairmen, co-ordinators, district agronomists and co-operators work together to produce the information presented in the Annual Research Compendium. CWFS would like to thank the following people for their commitment to and support of farmer driven research in the central west of NSW.

Alectown Chairman: Richard Westcott 02 68653231 Co-ordinator: Andrew Rice 02 68626422 District Agronomist: Karen Roberts 02 68621000 Co-operators: Geoff McCallum North Parkes Mines Neil Westcott "Swansea" Richard and Roger Crisp "Glenara" John Magill Nadine Lane Maurice Davey "Grey West"

Euabalong Chairman: Hayden Gilmore 02 68966657 District Agronomist: Nathan Border 02 68952099 Co-operator: Ian and John Kemp "Derrida"

Gunning Gap Chairman: Matt Dwyer 02 68576619 Co-ordinator: Andrew Rice 02 68626422 District Agronomist: Ken Motley 02 68502926 Co-operator: Pat and Bill O'Connell "Errigol" Mark Judson "Beramana" Clem Hodges "Pleasant View" Terry and Mark Hodges "Avondale" Graham Coombs "Boxthorpe” Bill Scott "Deloraine" Merriwagga Chairman: Lawrence Higgins 02 69651419 District Agronomist: Barry Haskiiis 02 69601320 Co-operator: Ian & Geoff Barber "Sylvanham" Nyngan Chairman: Kent Johnston 02 68321396 District Agronomist: Greg Brooke 02 68321980 Co-operator: Will Carter "Coreen" Rankins Springs Chairman: Michael Pfitzner 02 69634859 District Agronomist: Rachael Whitworth 02 69601300 Co-operator: David Bartter "Wattle Park"

Tottenham Chairman: Allan Jarvis 02 68928211

District Agronomist: Nathan Border 02 68952099 Co-operators: Keith Greig "The Meadows" Allan Jarvis "Kaludah" John Medcalf "Meadow Park"

Background Information 11 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Ungarie Chairman: Peter Gordon 02 69759048 District Agronomist: Nathan Border 02 68952099 Co-operator: Peter Gordon "Montrose" Weethalle Chairman: Andrew Luelf 02 69756253 District Agronomist: Bob Thompson 02 69722244 Co-operators: Scott and Steve Rutledge "Anona"

Wirrinya Chairman: Co- Matt Duff 02 68561122 ordinator: District Andrew Rice 02 68626422 Agronomist: Co- Ken Motley 02 68502926 operators: Kim and Wendy Muffet "Taroona"

CWFS Regional Site Locations The regional sites are situated over a range of cropping environments; from Alectown north of Parkes and Wirrinya south of Forbes, to Merriwagga north west of Griffith and Euabalong, 100km west of Condobolin, and from Nyngan in the north to Rankins Springs in the south.

12 Background Information CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Group Update

Farmers Advancing Research is the Agricultural Research and Advisory purpose of Central West Farming Station. Regional trial sites are operated Systems, established in 1998. by local members and co-ordinators. The purpose of the regional trials is to address Our principal aim is: district specific issues which are of concern to the members involved and To develop integrated whole farm include variety trials, rates of seed and management systems and other research fertiliser inputs, herbicide and pesticide outcomes for farming communities of trials, application timing trials and seeding central western NSW that maximise technology trials. Detailed results from profitability and are ecologically both regional and core site trials are sustainable. published in this Research Compendium.

CWFS is ran by farmers and employs a staff of 5 to conduct research in the CWFS works on two other large projects: central west area of NSW. CWFS also • The Low Rainfall Collaboration works in a cooperative manner with project links 5 farming systems groups research scientists, agribusiness and working in similar environments - private and public extension officers. The CWFS, Eyre Peninsula FS, Mallee continuing membership shows the interest Sustainable Fanning, Upper North FS in and support of our work. (in SA) and the Western Wheat project. This collaboration allows The Research Compendium exchange of information, staff and This Research Compendium, 2004-2005, farmer members between the 5 groups. is the seventh and final annual research publication of the CWFS Group. • Combating sodic subsoil constraints is also being tackled by CWFS. In this The Research Compendium presents the project we are investigating sodic work of the CWFS Group each year. A subsoils (below 30 cm) to quantify the full set of annual compendiums, posted to impact on plant growth and to all members, will track the progress of the investigate economic methods of research being undertaken. amelioration. This project is part of a GRDC national initiative and as well After 2005 the focus of CWFS will be as the results we find, we are in touch more on extension and as a result there with projects across Australia working will be a different publication in the on a range of subsoil problems. So future. there should be a lot of subsoil information available. CWFS Activities Central West Farming Systems members CWFS also prints Newsletters throughout and staff are continuing the systems trial the year to keep members informed of on the 160 ha site at the Condobolin activities, results and ideas.

For further information contact CWFS on (02) 68951013 or E-mail [email protected]

Background Information 13

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Reflections and Future Catherine Evans, CWFS

Over the last few years CWFS has maintained their research work, has achieved many things. I thought it might increased the numbers of those attending be good to record some of the greatest Field Days and has changed their achievements in this our last Annual extension delivery method to ensure that Research Compendium. They are: most information is taken to isolated locations. It is no longer expected that Feb 2003 Low Rainfall Collaboration farmers travel long distances to a central project funded. CWFS are point. Project Managers. May 2003 Subsoils project funded by In 2004 CWFS had a very busy year GRDC. CWFS are part of focussing the group for a change in the National Subsoils direction after the GRDC Review Initiative (SIP08). conducted at the end of 2003. We had to July 2003 John Brockwell, CSIRO, take stock, reorganise ourselves, find a agrees to work on rhizobia direction and pick ourselves up to with CWFS as a Visiting continue into the future. The CWFS staff Scientist. and Executive Committee spent many Aug 2003 Helen Nicol, retired from NSW hours reflecting, reviewing, setting new Ag, agrees to do statistical directions and developing a Strategic Plan work with CWFS as a for the group. CWFS has a strong focus Visiting Scientist. for the future and I hope that the future is Sept 2003 CWFS awarded Best Paper kind. in Theme 2 at the 1st Australian Farming Systems The future direction of CWFS will be Conference. The paper focussed towards extension and detailed the results from the delivering information. The change from Farming Systems a research focus was largely developed Comparison. through strategic planning meetings. After Mar 2004 CWFS retains funding and can such a long period of dry conditions, it continue operations. was felt that people need every bit of Sept 2004 Bruce Watt, CWFS Chairman information possible to help them get from 1998 to mid 2004, back on their feet. CWFS felt they can awarded a Regional assist with this delivery of existing Achiever's Award for his information. I hope that this will be a positive change for all work with CWFS. Mar 2005 Sharon Taylor, CWFS My future, however, lies in research. I Technical Officer, awarded love dealing with data, working out what 2nd place in the Show Girl it all means, trying to obtain information Competition at the Sydney from results and trying to find out Royal Easter Show. answers to questions. It is for that reason Mar 2005 Merriwagga Regional Site I have decided to leave CWFS. I have awarded a Special Award in been challenged in so many ways over the GRDC Grower Group the last 3 years at CWFS and I have Awards. enjoyed meeting, or trying to meet, those challenges. I have grown and developed We should be very proud of what CWFS has managed to achieve, despite the weather of the last 4 years. CWFS has

Background Information 15

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

because of the multi-disciplined work I wish CWFS the very best of luck. I have been doing. I have enjoyed thinking believe that their change in direction will about 1000 things at once and juggling benefit farmers in central western NSW. everything trying to fit all the work into an 8 hour day (I have not succeeded!). I I also wish to thank everyone I have have learnt things about myself and worked with over the last 3 years at completed tasks that I would never have CWFS and the 3 years before with NSW dreamt that I could do. In doing these DPI at Condobolin. I have had the tasks, I have learnt that research is "my pleasure of working with some thing". remarkable people. My thinking has been challenged by many discussions I have I know it's quite difficult to understand had with farmers and others. Most that there is a difference between research importantly, my enthusiasm for my work and extension. I think that it's like being a was renewed each time I met with CWFS farmer or a contractor. Some people are members and non-members - fanners, happy to farm and they do so at home their wives and families, agribusiness (i.e. a farmer or a researcher). Others are staff, agronomists, bankers, funding body happy to go out, work for others and representatives and others employed in speak with others and scatter their work similar roles. I have been very lucky. around the area (i.e. a contractor or an extension officer). Thank you and every best wish for the future. I hope that I can maintain some involvement with CWFS. I think the organisation has a huge potential to Cath. achieve greater things in the future. I

16 Background Information CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Understanding statistics Catherine Evans, CWFS

Statistics are one of those things that are chance (i.e. some thing other than the necessary in science. You can collect as treatments) caused the difference. much data as you want but without statistics this does not prove anything. The Presentation of Results use of replicates allows statistics to be When statistical analysis of trial data is done. Statistical analysis of trials lets you conducted, the analysis gives you the know whether the differences you see in probability level of the differences. There the data are due to chance or whether they may be differences at the 5% level (there's have occurred because of the treatments a probability of 5% that the differences are imposed. (N.B. Examples used in this caused by chance) and this can be article are fictitious and do not use real expressed as P≤0.05. The 5% level is data). usually the lowest where a statistically significant difference is given. There are Average or Mean two other levels used (P≤0.01 and Both these terms refer to the same thing - P≤0.001) and these mean that there is less if you add up the data and divide by the probability that differences are caused by number of data points, you have an chance; 1% and 0.1%, instead of 5%. average. Trial data is usually presented as the mean of the replicates. The example If we use the above example of a lime trial below may explain this. Let's assume and soil pH change, let's see how the data there is a lime trial with 3 lime rates may be presented.

(treatments) and 4 replicates (repeats). The data may look like this; Treatments applied average pH 0 lime 4.20 a Treatments average pH of each 1 t/ha lime 4.80 b applied PH replicate 2 t/ha lime 5.29 c 0 lime (nil) 4.20 4.11; 4.22; 5% lsd 0.45 4.18; 4.27 1 t/ha lime 4.80 4.77; 4.83; The statistical analysis of this example 4.75; 4.85 shows that if the soil pH changed by more 2 t/ha lime 5.29 5.22; 5.31; than 0.45 units (the 5% lsd) then there was 5.28; 5.34 a 95% chance that the difference was due to the lime. If we add the lsd (0.45) to the LSD or least significant difference average pH at the 0 lime treatment, we get The lsd is one statistical term that is a number less than either of the other two calculated and used to determine if there averages (4.65) -hence the 0 lime average are differences between treatments. The is different and gets a unique letter "a". usual lsd presented is the 5% lsd and this We move to the next figure, 4.80 and add means that by using this number for the lsd. The result is once again lower comparison you can determine if there is than the average pH at 2 t/ha, so both a difference between the treatments or treatments get their unique letter - "b" and not. If there is a difference, you're 95% "c" - to show that they are different. confident that the treatments caused the difference; there's a 5% probability that

Background Information 17 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Let's use the same example but with a larger (or smaller) than expected, you higher lsd (1%). In this example the 1% should check the data in more detail. lsd is 0.53. If you follow the same Coefficients of variation when analysing procedure as above, the 0 lime treatment yield for experiments with wheat and would have a unique code (as 4.2 + 0.53 barley, are often about 5 - 10%. (Taken is 4.73, which is less than the mean of the from: N. Alvey, N, Galwey and P. Lane other treatments 4.8 and 5.29). The 1 and (1982) An Introduction to GENSTAT. 2 t/ha lime treatments would both have Academic Press, UK. p. 81.) the same code because the difference between the treatments is less than the lsd Trials that are not replicated (4.8 + 0.53 = 5.33, which is more than Demonstration strips are easy to do and 5.29). Since there was no difference understand but there is no way of between the soil pH of the 1 and 2 t/ha objectively assessing whether the lime treatments, according to the lsd, we differences are caused by the treatments cannot be certain that the lime caused the or by some other factor ("chance" e.g. soil difference in soil pH. It may have been type, depth of topsoil, rainfall, slope, etc.). caused by chance. So the table would then Results from demonstration strips are look like this. interesting but don't rely on them. The

differences that you may notice may not Treatments applied average pH be due to the treatments at all. 0 lime 4.20 a 1 t/ha lime 4.80 6 Trials in a drought 2 t/ha lime 5.29 b Drought causes low yields; low yields l%lsd 0.53 mean that there is little room for variability. This then means that any As the lsd (or the P≤) goes from 5% to differences across a paddock are 1% to 0.1%, the more confident you are magnified and so there usually ends up that any differences are due to treatments being no significant difference between and not chance. treatments. Let me give you an example, if there is a 3 t/ha crop and the variability What does it mean? across the paddock is 0.2 t/ha, then it is If there is no significant difference quite a small difference (7%). If there is a between two treatments (e.g. 1 t/ha and 2 0.5 t/ha crop and the variability across the t/ha in the above table; both have a letter paddock is still 0.2 t/ha, then that "b") then, even if the values look different becomes a huge difference (40%). This (4.80 and 5.29 in the table above) you huge difference masks any differences cannot say that they are different or even you may find between treatments. Hence that there is a trend for difference. If lack of significant differences in trials in there is no significant difference recent years. between treatments, it means that the values for each treatment are not different.

CV% or coefficient of variation In some cases the coefficient of variation may be stated and used when discussing the results. The coefficient of variation is useful when comparing the accuracy of one experiment with another. If the coefficient of variation (cv%) is much

18 Background Information CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Core Site - 2004 Catherine Evans, CWFS

Key Points ______• There is little difference between the three cropping systems in terms of grain yield and quality. • The drought over recent years has particularly affected the livestock data. Differences between the systems prior to the drought no longer exist as the sheep have spent about half their time off the trial due to lack of feed. • Other research across Australia is supporting the management issues of some farming systems that have been highlighted by this trial.

Background • Reduced tillage including livestock The fanning systems comparison trial (mixed farming) system - This system commenced in 1998, to investigate the grows all wheat crops on long fallow. The management, profitability and rotation is long fallow wheat (LFW), skip sustainability of four farming systems. a year (stubble is maintained, weeds The trial occupies 160 ha and is located at controlled by grazing and a chemical the Condobolin Agricultural Research application in August), long fallow wheat and Advisory Station. The trial balances undersown (LFWu/s) with a the needs of research and farmers to lucerne/clover/medic-based pasture, then ensure results are significant. The trial is two years grazed pasture. not managed exactly as a farmer would • No tillage, no livestock (continuous manage his own farm but imitates a cropping) system - This system reliant on farming system as much as possible. chemicals only for weed control. The five- year cropping rotation is canola, wheat Four systems are compared, using four (SFWaC), pulse, wheat (SFWaP) and a replicates of each system with every green manure crop. This system represents rotational phase within each system a significant intensification of cropping in present in every year (Table 1). The four this district and no perennial species are systems vary in cropping intensity and included in the system. use of perennial species. Each of the 5 • Perennial Pasture System - Each plots, in all cropping systems, in each replicate in the perennial pasture system is replicate, is approx. 2 ha. They are – approximately 10 ha and is divided into 12 equal-sized segments radiating from a • Traditional (mixed farming) system - central watering point. At present, sheep The five-year rotation consists of long are rotationally grazed with half-weekly fallow wheat (LFW), followed by short intervals on each segment. fallow wheat undersown (SFWu/s) with a lucerne/clover/medic-based pasture, then three years of grazed pasture. Table 1: Rotational nhases for each of the four farmins systems. FARMING SYSTEM phase 1 phase 2 phase 3 phase 4 phase 5 Traditional long fallow short fallow wheat pasture pasture pasture wheat (LFW) undersown (SFWu/s) Reduced tillage LFW no crop LFW pasture pasture including livestock undersown (LFWu/s) Continuous cropping canola SFW pulse SFW green manure Perennial pasture pasture pasture pasture pasture pasture

Farming Systems Comparison 19 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

2004 Methods with a dry season we considered that There was no significant rainfall until stripe rust should be a minor problem. June (Table 2), which resulted in late sowing of most crops and the decision not The traditional system had pasture to sow canola, as it was considerably later establishment failures in the last few years due to the dry conditions. The than the optimum sowing time. chaimian decided to resow pastures under Sowing dates and varieties for 2004 and a cover crop of field peas. If there was the past 5 years are shown in Table 3. In sufficient field pea growth, we planned to the continuous cropping system (no cut hay from these resown pasture plots. tillage, no livestock) canola was not The dry seasonal conditions meant that sown. Instead wheat was sown into that feed for sheep became quite scarce at rotational phase. It is planned that in times. Locust plagues also depleted what 2005 instead of sowing wheat-011-wheat, little feed was available a couple of times as would be the case if we maintained the through the year. For six of the 12 rotation, we will instead sow barley. months, sheep were removed from the trial and fed elsewhere. This has affected Drysdale wheat and the field peas were fleece quality information. Sheep were sown a little late. H45 was at the edge of weighed onto and off the plots and so the sowing window. We had intended to liveweights should not be affected by this not sow H45 because of its susceptibility forced agistment. Fleece weights and to stripe mst but with the late sowing, quality are affected by the movements on H45 was the most suitable variety and and off the trial.

Table 2: Monthly rainfall at Condobolin ARAS (1997 - 2004) - average annual rainfall (1881 - 2004) = 442 mm

Yr J F M A M J J A S O N D AAR 1997 21.6 6.0 4.1 0.9 44.6 16.3 15.7 27.4 122 24.0 27.8 6.6 317 1998 35.8 4.5 4.4 53.7 56.3 48.0 75.3 82.0 79.0 47.9 50.9 14.2 552 1999 37.2 16.3 73.3 34.5 7.0 26.9 53.2 41.9 16.8 122 16.9 128 574 2000 8.8 30.6 76.1 45.0 95.0 17.8 14.9 58.7 12.5 64.0 63.2 16.7 503 2001 2.2 39.9 38.2 16.3 27.4 51.0 28.6 19.6 42.0 25.4 46.6 2.8 340 2002 0.8 172 19.4 11.0 22.1 4.4 8.0 6.6 45.1 0.0 2.8 14.2 307 2003 26.2 63 25.7 11.2 7.4 19.7 60.7 70.7 9.8 19.3 16.8 18.3 348 2004 90 32.1 8.3 2.3 17.8 46.9 13.9 32.2 26.9 52.7 30.8 45.8 400 2004 Results Cropping information Results of the trial are summarised in the Grain yields in 2004 (Table 4) were again tables below. The first 3 years of the trial, just above district average. In the when systems were being set up, have continuous cropping systems the H45 been the wettest years. Pastures were wheat replacing the canola yielded sown in 1998 and sheep were not significantly higher (1.16 t/ha) than the introduced to the trial until early 2000, to Drysdale (WaC 0.85 t/ha) which was allow for pasture establishment. Since higher than the H45 after pulse (WaP 0.76 then, a successive run of 4 dry years t/ha; 5% lsd = 0.091). (Table 2) has not shown the full potential of any of the four systems.

20 Farming Systems Comparison CWF5 Research Compendium 2004-2005 Table 3: Varieties sown and sowing dates for crop plots in each year. System Phase 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Tradition LFW Janz Janz Janz Sunbri Sunbri H45 Drysdale (31/5) (9/6) (22/5) (9/5) (26/4) (7/7) (17/6) SFWu/s Janz Janz Janz Janz H45 H45 H45 (31/5) (10/6) (29/5) (30/5) (5/6) (7/7) (22/6) Reduced LFW Janz Janz Janz Janz H45 H45 Drvsdale tillage with (31/5) (1/6) (25/5) (30/5) (30/5) (4/7) (17/6) livestock Janz H45 H45 LFW Janz (2/6) Janz Sunbri Sunbri (7/7) (22/6) u/s (29/5) (30/5) (9/5) (27/4) Continuous SFWaC Janz Janz Janz Sunbri Sunbri Sunbri Drysdale (31/5) (12/6) (20/4) (7/5) (24/4) (1/5) (17/6) SFWaP Janz Janz Janz Sunbri H45 H45 H45 (31/5) (12/6) (19/5) (7/5) (1/6) (20/5) (22/6) canola Monty Mystic Oscar 46C03 ATR ATR H45 (22/5) (8/6) (18/4) (5/5) Beacon Beacon wheat Bohatyr Bohatyr (7/4) (30/4) (22/6) pulse Bohatyr peas peas Snowpeak Wonga Wonga Parafield peas (14/6) (31/5) peas lupins lupins peas (5/6) Bohatyr (31/5) (18/4) (30/4) (24/6) green Bohatyr peas Bohatyr Popany Popany HDLs Morgan manure peas (15/6) peas vetch vetch (29/4) peas (5/6) (31/5) (23/3) (8/4) (25/6) It is presumed that the wheat instead of of the WaP. Both crops seemed to use the canola plot yielded higher than other same amount of water through the wheat plots because of the additional soil growing season (distance between the moisture (Figure 1). The wheat instead of lines remains constant from June to canola plot is shown as the squares in October; Fig. 1). Fig. 1. The squares and the triangles (green manure plot) both had higher soil The soil water data is showing some moisture than the other three plots. The interesting trends and Brett Honeysett 2004 wheat instead of canola plot was a (who is doing this work) has an green manure (high density legumes) in interesting paper in this chapter further 2003 that did not grow, so effectively a highlighting some of the soil water trends fallow. You can see the additional soil on this trial. moisture in this plot from the high values for the squares on the left-hand side of Wheat yields across the three cropping the graph (Spring 2003). The same plot in systems showed H45 (0.67 t/ha) yielded 2002 was wheat but the low yields would higher than Drysdale (0.59 t/ha; 5% lsd = not have used much soil water or 0.063). Across the three systems, the nutrients from the soil. These additional reduced tillage with livestock system had "fallow" years probably account for the the lowest average wheat yield (0.5 t/ha), higher yields of this wheat crop in the the traditional system (0.6 t/ha) was higher and the continuous cropping continuous cropping system in 2004. system had the highest wheat yield (0.8 It is interesting that the WaC (Figure 1; t/ha; 5% lsd = 0.077). This higher diamonds) had higher soil moisture at average is largely attributed to the higher yield of the wheat replacing canola plot sowing (June) than the WaP (crosses) and as discussed above. this too was reflected in the lower yields

Farming Systems Comparison 21 2004-2005 CWFS Research Compendium

Figure 1: Continuous cropping system - soil moisture to 3 m in 2003-04 (data and figure from Brett Honeysett, NSW DPI).

Grain quality data (Table 5) showed that Over the last 7 years there has been no in 2004, Drysdale wheat (17.3%) had system that has produced higher yields or higher grain protein than H45 (16.5%; higher grain proteins than any other 5% lsd = 0.167). The Drysdale in the system. This indicates that there is no continuous cropping system had the system difference in crop growth or highest grain protein (17.9%; 5% lsd = quality (i.e. overall the presence or 0.289). There were no significant absence of sheep or tillage or perennial differences between wheat varieties or species has had no difference on grain systems with screenings. Drysdale (79.4) quantity or quality). had a higher test weight than H45 (78.5; 5% lsd = 0.658). Table 4: Grain yield (t/ha) and growing season rainfall (GSR rii-scnt) for 1998 to 2004. AD 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Yield Yield Yield Yield Yield Yield Yield Traditional LFW 3.37 2.3 2.4 2.06 0.44 0.70 0.55 SFWu/s 2.67 1.12 2.5 1.67 0.73 0.86 0.65 Reduced LFW 3.35 1.98 2.2 1.69 0.14^ 0.84 0.47 LFWu/s 2.71 1.9 2.4 3.03 0.43 1.02 0.53 Continuous crop SFWaC 3.17* 1.18 2.9 1.89 0.60 0.26 0.85 SFWaP 3.17* 1.38 2.6 1.92 0.73 0.93 0.76 Canola 1.04 0.36 1.5 1.21 0.08 0.36 1.16 (wheat#) Peas 1.71 0.77 0 0.71 0.13 0.18 0.91 GSR mm 394 180 244 185 97 180 140 The wheat in 1998 was not separated between the two plots in the no tillage, no livestock system. ^ Yield was low on this H45 wheat crop because of damage caused by herbicide application. #The sowing rains did not occur until June when it was too late to sow canola. Wheat was sown instead.

22 Farming Systems Comparison CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 5: Grain Drotein (%) for wheat crops, 1998 to 2004. 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Protein Protein Protein Protein Protein Protein Protein Traditional LFW 11.7 13.8 10.9 16.2 15.2 15.1 16.9 SFWu/s 11.8 15.2 10.6 13.7 13.2 14.2 16.3 Reduced LFW 11.8 14.6 10.6 14.8 14.5 14.8 17.2 LFWu/s 11.8 15.2 10.6 14.3 14.9 13.4 16.5 Continuous crop SFWaC 11.8* 15.1 10.5 13.8 15.2 16.0 16.7 SFWaP 11.8 14.2 11.2 12.4 13.5 16.4 17.9 The wheat in 1998 was not separated between the two plots in this system.

Livestock information were 5-year old wethers and with the Sheep came onto the trial in March 2000 sheep being off the trial more than they after pastures had been established. So were on the trial, the wool quality no the livestock information is about 2 years longer reflected the systems. behind the cropping information. This has made it difficult to do analyses overyears. The fleece weights (Table 6) in 2003 The early gross margin analyses did not showed that the perennial pasture sheep take into account the livestock portions of had significantly lighter fleeces than those the systems. The drought in the last few of the mixed fanning systems. In 2004 and years has further hampered the livestock 2005 this trend did not continue, largely efforts as sheep have spent increasing because sheep spent much of the year off amounts of time off the trial. the trial due to the dry conditions. The liveweights (Table 7) followed the same In 2004/05 sheep were present on the trial trend as fleeces. The perennial pasture when feed was available - about 50% of sheep were significantly lighter than the the time. Sheep were taken off the trial, mixed farming sheep in 2003 but in 2004 weighed, shorn and sold in March-April and 2005 this was again not evident. 2005. This decision was made because there was little feed available, the sheep

Table 6: Average weight of fleeces (2003 - 2005) Average fleece Average fleece Average fleece weight -2003 weight - 2004 weight-2005* Traditional 5.67 6.53 4.63 Reduced 5.35 6.13 4.73 Perennial Pasture 4.80 6.37 4.26 * 9 months wool growth

Table 7: Average weight of sheep from December 2003 to March 2005. Weight onto Weight off-shears Weight onto Weight off trial trial Dec 2003 Sept'2003 plots - Aug 04 - Mar 05 Traditional 44.7 57.2 60.58 63.9 Reduced 45.3 55.8 62.04 66.6 Perennial 44.5 49.8 60.72 63.8 Pasture

Farming Systems Comparison 23 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Gross margin information margins have been calculated to give an Gross margins were calculated by an idea of the costs associated with each economist for the information gained off system but these are not calculated by an the trial in the years 1998 to 2001. In the 3 economist and therefore may not be dry years, we have no yet taken the data to accurate (Table 9). This data shows that an economist. We will be doing so soon. high input costs associated with cropping, Table 8 gives the gross margins calculated along with poor yields because of dry by an economist. Table 9 shows rough seasons, are making the gross margins of calculations to give some indication of the continuous cropping system negative. where the costs are occurring. Please do In 2004, 3 wheat crops were sown instead not hold the figures in Table 9 as gospel of the usual 2 and the gross margin was they are merely presented to give a guide positive. Alternative crops to wheat, to costs. particularly canola, have proved unreliable in the Condobolin district In 2001 when gross margins were when the subsoil moisture is not calculated, there was little sheep data available. Replacing canola in 2004 with (sheep were introduced to the trial in another wheat crop seemed to be a 2000 after pasture establishment) for the profitable decision. gross margins (Table 8). Future gross margins will use livestock data to give a In 2004 on the Traditional mixed farming true indication of comparisons between system, pasture failure in earlier years led systems. Table 8 therefore gives a gross to a decision to undersow peas in order to margin analysis of only the cropping re-establish pastures and get some portion of the trial. This means that the returns. You can see the higher variable mixed fanning systems and the perennial cost of this system in 2004 ($97.80). pasture system are disadvantaged because Flexibility within this system meant that a portion of their system has been the peas could be grazed if the season excluded. The figures for the continuous was poor, cut for hay or harvested for cropping system are the only ones that grain in a good season depending upon account for the entire system. market fluctuations. In a continuous cropping system, unless there is Gross margin calculations will be done flexibility for hay cutting or grazing, you again by an economist at the completion are locked into grain production, which in of the rotational phase. Estimated gross a poor season may not be profitable. Table 8: Average and Cumulative Gross Margins ($/ha) for each cropping system (calculated by D. Patton, NSW Agriculture Economist)

average annual gross margin 4-year cumulative SYSTEM 1998 1999 2000 2001 average 98-01 Traditional +104.52 + 51.85 + 64.26 + 78.63 + 74.82 +299.25 Reduced tillage +113.13 + 31.67 + 36.75 +107.81 + 72.34 +289.35 Continuous +247.53 -40.35 +108.92 + 57.99 + 93.52 +374.08 cropping

24 Farming Systems Comparison CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 9: Very rough calculations of variable costs and gross margins from the 4 systems (2002-2004) to indicate the high costs of production in some systems. Total Variable Cost (S/ha) Gross Margin ($/ ha) SYSTEM 2002 2003 2004 2002 2003 2004* Traditional 27.01 47.60 97.80 17.45 48.27 139.55 Reduced 47.83 47.33 49.54 -26.17 50.51 -23.26 tillage Continuous 75.92 170.29 140.97 -12.53 -97.00 29.81 cropping * The high result from the traditional system is caused by an opportunistic hay-making operation carried out. The positive result in the continuous cropping system is largely due to the high price for field peas in 2004.

Discussion indicate why there is a predominance of Rainfall data needs to be taken into mixed farmers in the Condobolin district. account when looking at crop yields. If There is much interest in the continuous you look at the years 1999, 2001 and cropping system but data in the dry years 2003, they each had about 180 mm has shown that reliance on herbicides growing season rainfall (GSR; Table 4) alone for weed management is difficult. yet the average wheat yield (calculated In dry conditions some herbicides are from Table 4; 1.64 t/ha in 1999, 2.04 t/ha inactive, there are fewer opportunities for in 2001, 0.74 t/ha in 2003) for each year weed control and herbicides are costly. was veiy different. Using sheep to help with weed management has an added advantage in 1999 was a great rainfall year with about dry conditions because weeds become 30 mm rainfall each month, except May extra feed and farmers can take advantage and September, of the growing season. of another commodity. However, in 1999 sowing did not occur on the April rains and so the trial was The Condobolin district is a prime hard sown late, in early June (Table 3), wheat growing area. With the exception missing weeks of the growing season, of 1998 and 2000 (quite wet years), grain explaining the lower yield than in 2001. protein has made prime hard (Table 5). This trial does not have the capacity for The 2001 crops were sown in early May opportunity buying and selling of stock. and received good rains in June and again If this was incorporated into a mixed in September, hence the decent yields. farming system, it would add even Contrast these two years with 2003 where greater flexibility to the system and could there was very little rainfall in April, May potentially increase profitability. This can and June. Crops were not sown until rain be modelled though and after the in July. July and August rainfall was high completion of the second rotational phase and September rainfall very low, hence (2007), there will be sufficient data the poor yields. In addition to the available for this sort of predictive growing season rainfall, there was subsoil modelling. moisture in 1999 and 2001, yet no subsoil moisture in 2003. Rainfall is the most Sheep have not yet been present on limiting factor to crop growth in this systems for a full rotational cycle and so district. few calculations have been made, as yet, with the livestock data. Tables 6 and 7 Dry years, however, are not uncommon give some of the livestock data - fleece in Condobolin and the results to date weights and liveweight gain. Since 2002,

Farming Systems Comparison 25 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

the dry conditions have seen sheep livestock are necessary for the farming moving onto and off the trial site system to be sustainable in low rainfall according to feed availability. The environments. In WA and SA, many number of sheep and grazing days is fanners excluded livestock from their counted for each system and this will systems in the 1980s. Twenty years later, assist with data interpretation in the they are re-introducing livestock as their future. Sheep will be factored into the farms are not economic, particularly in gross margin analyses in future. dry years, without the diversified income. This is no different to the results found on Other Research this trial. Farmers around Condobolin In 2003 there was some question as to the have maintained the livestock portion of legitimacy of the results we were finding their farming systems and many claim that on this trial. These questions were largely livestock have kept them going over the posed in the GRDC review of the project recent years. but were made by others. Current research across Australia seems to be finding the Conclusion same results as we have. Chris Preston This trial was an ambitious challenge (WAITE, SA) spoke at the 2005 GRDC started in 1998. None of the last 7 years Update in Dubbo about herbicide have been easy but this trial is showing resistance. His work has shown that the some good results that can be backed up systems most likely to develop herbicide by other work across Australia. It is a resistance are those that rely solely on credit to CWFS that they started such an herbicides for weed control, are cropped ambitious project and have kept their faith heavily and have little flexibility. In recent in the trial after much criticism. This trial years we have made similar comments is unique and vital to understanding why about the continuous cropping system in some fanning systems are successful and this trial and have developed an integrated others are not, especially in these diy, weed management system to slow the variable climates. Further inteiTogation of development of herbicide resistance. the data, through statistics, modelling and Work such as Chris' is showing that we economics, will give more valuable were justified in the work that we have information over time. done on that system. In the Condobolin district, flexibility and At a recent (March 2005) gathering of mixed farming systems are the key to people working in low rainfall research, profitability - along with good luck! there was unanimous agreement that

26 Farming Systems Comparison CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Soil changes between 1999 and 2004 under four farming systems

Catherine Evans, CWFS

Key Points

• There are few changes in soil chemistry due to differences between systems. • Potassium (K) has increased under the PP system. • There are some soil chemistry changes over the 5 year period but most are minor. Why measure soil changes? Soil changes at one depth are influenced The fanning systems comparison gives a by those in an adjoining depth. In the good opportunity to investigate the following text I have not taken into sustainability of the four farming systems account any depth interactions. being investigated. One sustainability index is soil chemistry changes over time. The abbreviations used are PP = perennial Generally soil chemistry changes quite pasture system, CC = continuous cropping slowly, so it was planned to soil sample system, RT = mixed system with two long initially (1999) and again in 5 and 10 fallow wheat crops, CT = traditional years time. This paper gives the soil mixed system. In this paper, surface soil = chemistry results from 1999 and 2004. soil from 0-10 cm depth. Given the funding situation it is unlikely that the systems trial will continue long pH: pH measures (in this case) the acidity enough to give us the 10-year data. of the soil. A pH of less than 5.0 often has a negative effect on plant growth (and For a system to be sustainable then you may contain Al% above 5%). Over the want to see the soil chemistry remaining last 5 years the PP system has had an at least stable. Simply, you want to see increase in surface soil pH (0.3 units). The some things improving (e.g. soil calcium, RT and CC systems have both become phosphorus, organic carbon) and other more acidic in the surface soil (0.1 and 0.2 things decreasing (e.g. electrical units respectively). Generally there are no conductivity, sodium, magnesium). I will changes at the deeper depths between try to explain the change in each soil systems. The only concern here is the chemistry aspect and the importance, or declining soil pH in the RT and CC lack of importance, associated with that systems. It shows that these systems are change. taking more products (alkalinity) from the system than are being put in. The Results and Discussion recommendation would be to monitor Table 1 gives the average soil test results these systems for further decline and if for the varying depths sampled. I have not further decline occurs, limestone may given the full data for each system as this need to be applied to counteract this became a huge confusing table. I have decline. At present Al is not of concern given the average and I will explain if (see later) but these systems are likely to there were differences between the be the first systems to show the plant systems, if there were changes over time growth declines associated with soil and what these may mean. acidity.

Farming Systems Comparison 27 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Tahle T Average soil test results on the farming svstems coniDarison 1999 and 2004

Soil Test 0-10 cm 10-30 cm 30-50 cm 50-70 cm 70-90 cm pHCa 5.14 5.33 6.48 7.25 7.52 EC 0.12 0.09 0.10 0.17 0.21 eCEC 11.3 10.7 16.9 21.1 21.7 Ca 7.1 6.6 8.7 10.2 10.0 Ca% 62.8 61.5 52.4 48.9 46.8 Mg 2.2 2.6 5.8 7.7 8.1 Mg% 19.2 24.1 33.9 36.5 37.2 K 1.9 1.2 1.3 1.5 1.5 K% 16.8 11.8 8.0 7.3 7.2 Na 0.11 0.27 1.0 1.6 2.0 Na% 1.0 2.5 5.6 7.2 8.8 Al 0.02 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.01 Al% 0.2 0.3 0.07 0.06 0.05 OC 1.4 na na Na Na P 20.0 na na Na Na Total N 0.13 na na Na Na EC: This is electrical conductivity and the 50 - 70 cm depth where a decrease gives a measure of salts in the soil. An over time was seen. It would be unlikely EC of greater than 0.1 may adversely that calcium would change in a short time affect the salt-sensitive crops such as period unless a calcium ameliorant was peas. Above 1.0 and most crops will be applied (e.g. limestone or gypsum) and affected. The EC of the PP, CC and RT this did not occur. systems has increased in the surface soil and are about 0.1 dS/m where sensitive Ca%: The percentage of calcium on the plants may be adversely affected. The EC exchange sites (Ca%) has decreased over of the 10-30 cm soil in the PP system has time by about 1% in the surface soil and also increased with time. It should be 2% in the 10-30 cm depth. As soils noted that drought conditions do have an acidify, or other cations accumulate, impact on increasing the salt calcium may be leached from the soil concentration of the soil. These paddocks exchange sites. The Ca% is relatively should also be monitored over the next high for Condobolin soils. If Ca% few years to ensure that salt continues to decline, amelioration may be concentrations do not keep increasing. As required. In these soils, this may also be the surface soil is all that is affected by reflected in further soil pH decline. increases over time this is not a serious problem. Mg: The exchangeable magnesium (Mg) of the surface soil in the PP system eCEC: Over time the effective cation increased by about 0.7 meq/lOOg over exchange capacity (eCEC) of the surface time. The Mg increased, under all soil in the PP system increased from 11.1 systems over the 5 years, by about 0.3 to 12.9 meq/lOOg. No other system meq/lOOg at the 10-30 cm depth and the showed a change over time at any depth. 30 - 50 cm depth. This eCEC is typical for these red soils. Mg%: The percentage of magnesium on Ca: The exchangeable calcium (Ca) the exchange sites (Mg%) has increased showed no change over time in any under the PP system in the surface soil. system. There were some differences in At 10-30 cm depth there has been an

28 Farming Systems Comparison CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

increase by 2% under all systems. Mg in Al are below the critical limits where it soils increases as you move west in the affects plant growth. state and down in depth. The high Mg% Al%: The percentage of aluminium on is not unusual for Condobolin soils. the exchange sites (Al%) did not change under any system at any depth over time. K: The exchangeable potassium (K) has The Al% is not at a concentration where increased under the PP system at all it will damage plant growth as it is less depths. This is most likely due to sheep than 5%. urine. Although there are sheep on the mixed fanning systems, there are four OC: The organic carbon (OC) was times the sheep on the PP system. At measured in the surface soil only as this present this is not of concern. is where it occurs to the greatest extent. Organic carbon increased over time in all K%: The percentage of potassium on the systems, from 1.4 to 1.46%. The organic exchange sites (K%) does not reflect the carbon is typical of these soils. The increased K of the PP system. There are increase over time is pleasing. For a no significant changes in K% over time sustainable system, the organic carbon in any system. K in soils increases as you must be steady or increasing over time. move west in the state. The high K% is not unusual for Condobolin soils. P: The phosphorus (P) was measured in the surface soil only as this is where it is Na: The exchangeable sodium (Na) has most effective for plant growth. The P in shown an increase, under the PP and CC the PP system decreased over time by 3 systems in the surface soil, of (0.06 and mg/kg. In the other 3 systems, P 0.1 respectively). In the 10-30 cm soil increased over time by 5 mg/kg in both depth there was an increase over time by mixed systems and by 15 mg/kg in the about 0.6 meq/lOOg across all systems. CC system. These results are not There were no changes over time at other surprising. There is no P added to the PP depths. system. P is added to the mixed fanning systems in 2 of the 5 years (to the wheat Na%: The percentage of sodium on the crops) and in the CC system, P is added exchange sites (Na%) increased in the in each year. The average P was 20 surface soils of the PP and CC systems mg/kg which is considered a low-medium over time. In the 10-30 cm depth there status and is typical of these red soils. was an increase across all systems. At the depths of 30-50 cm and 50-70 cm the CC Total N: The total nitrogen (Total N) was system had the highest Na%. The measured in the surface soil only. The definition of a sodic soil is one where the PP, RT and CC systems all increased in Na% is greater than 6%. It is typical that total N over time, from 1.2 to 1.5 mg/kg. these red soils have sodic subsoils, as The CT system did not change shown in Table 1. It is not known if the significantly. same Na% (6%) affects plant growth at depth. Current research indicates that Conclusions about 18% Na is critical at depth. There have been few soil chemistry changes over the last 5 years. The Al: The exchangeable aluminium (Al) of greatest change has been the addition of the surface soil of the PP system K under the PP system. Five years is not increased by 0.03 meq/lOOg over time. a long period of time, as far as soil There were no other differences over time changes go, so the next 5 years may show at other depths. These concentrations of more changes if the trial continues.

Farming Systems Comparison 29 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Soil water use under phase farming systems at Condobolin

Brett Honeysett and Neil Fettell NSW Department of Primary Industries, Condobolin

Key points

• In 2004, after 7 years of rotation, the farming systems containing a perennial pasture phase have about 140-160 mm less soil water in the top 3 metres than the continuous cropping system. • The farming systems which include a perennial are drier below 70 cm, presumably due to the water extraction by lucerne in previous years. • At sowing in June 2004 the continuous cropping treatment contained 60 mm more plant available water in the top lm than the phase farming systems. This resulted in a 50 % higher yield. • Rooting depth of wheat in 2004 appeared limited to the top 70 cm compared to 50 cm for peas and 150 cm for perennial pasture.

Background outcome for this project is the integration The replacement of perennial native of productive perennial pastures into vegetation by annual crops and pastures annual cropping systems so as to improve has been blamed for causing increased the profitability and sustainability of deep drainage and dryland salinity. dryland farming. This is to be done by Although drainage hasn't been a problem expanding the knowledge base of lucerne over the last few very dry years, it can be and other perennial species in phase over the longer term. Research at farming systems, and designing Condobolin is investigating if lucerne or guidelines for their use across cropping perennial grasses can dry the soil profile environments. to greater depths than annual crops and pastures and therefore help balance the The Condobolin project is using a mix of water available from rainfall with that existing data, modelling and large used by plants. The extremely dry experimental sites to develop and conditions experienced over the last 3 demonstrate high water use farming years have identified some other systems. Detailed soil water readings to a management issues when integrating depth of three metres and crop and perennial pastures into annual cropping pasture production are being recorded on systems in this environment. the Central West Fanning Systems core site at Condobolin. This trial has four The project treatments, namely continuous perennial The project "High water-use fanning pasture (PP), two lucerne-wheat cropping systems that intergate crops with rotations (RT - Reduced till, 2 year perennial pastures" is jointly funded by lucerne phase and CT - Conventional GRDC and the CRC for Plant Based Tillage, 3 year lucerne phase), and Management of Dryland Salinity, with continuous cropping (ZT - Zero till). contributions from NSW Department of Primary Industries and CWFS. The key

30 Farming Systems Comparison CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Results replenish subsoil moisture levels have Monitoring thus far has been undertaken been very limited, hence crops have had to during a period of below average rainfall. rely on in-season rainfall for growth. The Table 1 shows that in 2002 Condobolin rainfall distribution during the growing growing season rainfall was only 30% of season has generally resulted in late the average while in 2003 and 2004 the sowing and limited moisture for grain value was 80-85%. The CWFS core site filling, a pattern reflected in the soil was more fortunate, receiving an moisture measurements. additional 19 mm. Rainfall events to

Table 1. Condobolin Rainfall

Condobolin Long Term 2002 2003 2004 CWFS Average 2004 Annual total 420

305 347 400 414

Growing season

(April - October) 235 96 198 193 212 At the commencement of monitoring in system (Figure 1). After a lucerne phase September 2003, the farming systems this deficit was as high as 200 mm containing a perennial pasture phase presumably due to lucerne's ability to contained on average 100 mm (CT and extract moisture at depth. The 2 year RT) and 65 mm (PP) less soil water in the lucerne phase dried the soil to the same top 3 m than the continuous cropping level as a 3 year lucerne phase.

Figure 1. Total soil water content to 3 metres from September 2003 to February 2005 under two and three year lucerne phase systems, continuous cropping and continuous mixed perennial pasture

From autumn 2004 onwards subsoil fluctuated little due to the prevailing diy moisture levels in all 4 systems have conditions. The systems with a perennial

Farming Systems Comparison 31 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

phase have maintained approximately plant available water in the top lm than 140-160 mm less soil water in the top 3 did those with a lucerne phase (Figure metres than the continuous cropping 2a.). These plots also had a 50% higher system (Figure 1.)- It is worth noting that grain yield, probably a result of this in May 2004, a month before sowing, soil stored water. If the upper one metre is moisture levels were at the lowest point drier after a lucerne phase then the measured since monitoring began in all downside of lucerne can be lower crop systems. yields and reduced grain quality in dry years. At sowing in June 2004, the annual cropping system contained 60 mm more

Figure 2. Plant available water under the four treatments in (a) June 2004 and (b) Oct 2004.

At the end of the cereal growing season perennial pasture systems had 25 and 37 (late Oct) the CT and RT systems mm respectively (Figure 2b), the majority contained less than 10 mm of plant of which was below 70 cm. In 2004 soil available water in the top metre of soil, water decreased in all systems in the top whilst the continuous cropping and 3m, the reductions being 78, 137, 115,

32 Farming Systems Comparison CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

and 150 mm for the continuous cropping Initial results from 2004 indicated that system, 2 year lucerne phase, 3 year most crops did not use much moisture lucerne phase and perennial pasture from below 70 cm, probably because of systems respectively. the late sowing and the severe stress experienced in September. Reasonable The negative values in the top 10 cm in yields were achieved where barley was the October 2004 soil profile are a result drilled into a lucerne stand provided there of evaporation from the soil surface, was sufficient moisture for germination which is capable of reducing soil and the lucerne was suppressed with an in- moisture levels below the limit which is crop broadleaf herbicide. The lucerne available to plants. treatments have continued to use soil moisture over summer to a depth of at Soil moistures have increased by 17-45 least 1.5 m. mm from November 2004 until February 2005, following two moderate rainfall Soil moisture monitoring on four district events late in 2004. farms showed crop water use to a depth of about 90 cm whereas lucerne extracted Estimated rooting depth of annuals in water to about 1.5 m. The work will be 2004 was similar in the 3 cropping repeated in 2005 which we hope will be a systems, with wheat extracting moisture wetter year. down to approx 70 cm and peas to 50 cm. The pastures in the phase farming systems were dominated by lucerne and extracted moisture down to 90 cm. The permanent pasture plots which contain lucerne, rhodes grass, bambatsi panic and digitaria or umbrella grass showed activity down to 150 cm.

The green manure crop in the annual system is sprayed out in spring, and the resultant fallow period has led to an extra 40 mm of stored water in both 2003 and 2004.

Other work Two further trials were established in 2004, one to look at using lucerne in rotation with cropping (phase fanning) and the other, sowing crop into an existing lucerne stand. This latter system, called companion or pasture cropping, is probably best suited to wetter areas. Crop and pasture production is being measured as well as soil water content to a depth of 3 metres. Some plots were given additional water so that a range of seasons could be simulated. 33 Farming Systems Comparison

CWF5 Research Compendium 2004-2005 CWFS Regional Summary (1998-2003)

CENTRAL WESTERN NSW

Regional Sites SNAPSHOT of results

• The application of P fertiliser at 20 kg P/ha for wheat, canola and field peas was found to be economically beneficial in average rainfall years. • There was no wheat yield increase to application of Zn fertiliser on any red soil with an acidic 0-10 cm soil layer. • Chlorsulfuron herbicides can cause yield decreases in wheat. P and/or Zn addition will not diminish this damage. • Sowing into dry soil often results in lower yields than sowing later into moisture.

Crop Monitoring Program Points of Interest

• In the 2002 drought, many people made more money grazing crops than they would have from harvesting them because of the high livestock prices, short crops, pinched grain and low yields averaging 0.71 t/ha.

Year Most popular Av.N Av. P Av. sowing Av. Av. yield wheat variety applied applied rate plants/m2 1999 Janz, Cunningham 23 kg N/ha 16kgP/ha 24-78 kg/ha 88 2.8 t/ha 2001 Janz, Cunningham, 16kgN/ha 14 kg P/ha 20-65 kg/ha 85 2.0 t/ha H45 2003 H45, Chara 14kgN/ha 15kgP/ha 25-80 kg/ha 95 1.7 t/ha

Year Av. Growing Av. number of Av. sow date Av. no. in-crop Season Rainfall cultivations herbicides 1999 350 mm 3 25 May 0 2001 260 mm 2 23 May 2 2003 147 mm 1 26 May 0.7 • It is easy to say that changes have occurred over the past 6 years if you look at the data alone. This may not be a true reflection of events at all.

• Growing Season Rainfall in each of the above years was vastly different and this may play a large factor in some of the changes. For example in a dry year less fertiliser and less in-crop herbicides may be applied; over a dry summer less cultivation may occur because there are fewer opportunities for cultivation.

Central Western NSW 35 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

PIRD Pasture Survey across central-western NSW (1999 - 2001)

• Annual legumes are seasonal (e.g. 1999 was a rose clover dominant year; 2000 was a subclover dominant year and 2001 naturalised clovers dominated). • Native pasture (e.g. curly windmill grass, wallaby grass, native panic, Digitaria species) with some legumes, provide more feed on an annual basis. • "Lucerne pastures" have about 30-40% lucerne in them in spring and 60-90% lucerne in summer. • "Annual legume pastures" are 80% broadleaf weeds in summer. • There was little difference in pasture production between pasture types (i.e. between lucerne pasture, annual legume pasture, native grass pasture, lucerne + annual legumes, lucerne + sown grass and sown grass pasture). • Management was the cause of production and feed quality differences. You need to manage pasture composition, weeds, soil fertility and legume plant density for good pastures.

36 Central Western NSW CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Crop Modelling Information

• Using historical rainfall data and wheat yields, computer models can give a guide to the effects different years will have on yield. • Other factors affecting yield (e.g. stored soil moisture) can be added to this computer model to determine the effects they have on yield. • The results show that in half of the years, even if everything else was perfect for plant growth, the rainfall would limit yield to 3 t/ha at Gunning Gap and 2.6 t/ha at Vermont Hill. • Computer models indicate that if you fallow after 15th September at Vermont Hill and 15th October at Gunning Gap, then wheat yield was near maximum, and water leakage from the fallow was minimised, in 50% of years. This gives a fallow management that is environmentally friendly, without affecting yield.

Rainfall in central-western NSW and the SOI.

• The SOI (Southern Oscillation Index) can be used to predict the season. • The end of May is the earliest a winter rainfall probability can be determined for that winter. So although it can't be used for sowing decisions, it can be used for other seasonal decisions. • In central-western NSW there is a relationship between SOI and the season. • If the SOI is less than -5, there is a high chance of a drier than average season in central-western NSW. • If the SOI is more than +5, there is a high chance of a wetter than average season in central-western NSW. • Looking at historical rainfall data at Condobolin, Growing Season Rainfall (GSR) in an average year is 218 mm. When the SOI was less than -5, the average GSR dropped to 176 mm. When the SOI was more than +5, the average GSR increased to 266 mm.

Central Western NSW 37 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Acknowledgements • Others we have worked with: Dr This work would not have been possible Alison Bowman (NSW DPI; PIRD without the support of all involved with Pasture Survey), Dr John Brockwell CWFS - members, staff, partners and (retired from CSIRO), David Harbison sponsors. The following people are (Hi Fert), Helen Nicol (retired from NSW thanked for their work, time, effort and DPI), Kirrily Pollock (ex-NSW DPI; support (both past and present) SOI), David Freckelton (NSW DPI; • CWFS Staff: Jason Cameron, David map), Richard Maccallum (NSW DPI; Flower, Helen Dalton, Mathew Ginns, crop modelling). Linda Stockman, Rob Sanderson, • System Chairmen: Peter Weston, Ian Catherine Evans, Sharon Taylor, Allan Davis, Gerry Black, Peter Gordon, Peter L’Estrange, Daryl Reardon and Lindy Ledger, Richard Langley, Graeme Moon. Mason. • CWFS Executive Committee: Phillip • Those who have assisted in some way: Adams (Steering Committee Chair), Bruce erecting fencing, signs, weed chipping, Watt (Chair 1998 - July 2004), Graham laying water pipes, casual assistance with McDonald (Chair July 2004 to date), Dick the many jobs, etc. Bradley, Kim Muffet, Graham Hunter, • CWFS Sponsors: GRDC, Martin Tooth, Warwick Jones, Jason Tom, Thunderbolt, Silvan, PWA, AWB, NSW Alan Umbers, Ian Menzies, Wayne Oilseeds Research Fund, PIRD, NSW Dunford, Julie Greig, Graeme Mason, DPI, Ag-N-Vet, Redenbach and Carey, Keith Pengilley, John Rhodes, Peter Woolmark, NSW RAA, Incitec, Gordon, Chris Jones and Stuart Australian Pulse Co-operative, Lachlan McDonald. Advisory Group Inc., Hassall and • NSW DPI Staff: particularly those at Associates, CWCFA, AWI Pty. Ltd., Condobolin, especially Neil Fettell, Paul Pivot, Grain Corp, Grain Growers Lukins, Peter Milthorpe, John Francis, Association, Hi Fert, Primary Sales, Nathan Border, Libby Roesner, Keith Janke, Dovuro seeds, NAB. Pengilley, Neil Durning, Barry Riley, • To all who have attended Field Days, Laurie Barwick, Jim Presley, Richard meetings, talks, seminars and other Macccallum, Nick Moody, Tim McNee, events; thank you also for your support. Joy Gibson, Wendy O'Neill, George Stevens, Robin Scott and Dean Patton. Also those from other centres who have helped with advice and sheep work.

38 Central Western NSW CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Central Western NSW - The environment we work in.

Soil information for the eastern portion of the region and lowest Condobolin area in the western portion. Most of the soils of the Condobolin area are red soils with a loam surface and There is more rainfall in the winter heavier clay subsoil. Along rivers, creeks months in southern Australia and more and waterways there are heavier clay soils rainfall in the summer months in northern that are brown, black or grey in colour. Australia. The change between winter dominant rainfall and summer dominant The red soils are the major dryland rainfall occurs about midway across cropping soils of the area. They usually NSW - across the central western region. have a surface soil (0-10 cm) that is acidic It is said that the rainfall in central- western NSW is equi-seasonal (i.e. all (pHCa 4-5.5) and a subsoil that becomes alkaline. The surface 0-10 cm usually has seasons are about equal). In the southern a low to medium phosphorus status part of central-western NSW there is a (Colwell P 5-20 mg/kg) and an effective little more winter rainfall and in the cation exchange capacity (eCEC) of about northern part of central-western NSW there is a little more summer rainfall. 6-15 meq/100g. The organic carbon status Summer rainfall however is not enough is low (0.5-1.5%) which is typical of soils to grow summer crops reliably in central- in low rainfall environments. western NSW. The heavier clay soils have a surface 0-10 This equi-seasonal rainfall across central- cm that is not as acidic as the red soils western NSW means that rainfall during (pHca 5-8) and a subsoil that usually the growing season is just less than half becomes more alkaline with depth. The the average annual rainfall. In many of effective cation exchange capacity the other low rainfall agricultural zones in (eCEC) is between about 10-25 Australia, the rainfall is winter dominant meq/100g; higher than the red soils and so the growing season rainfall is because clay increases the eCEC. The almost equal to the annual rainfall. If you phosphorus status of these soils is usually want to compare agricultural zones, medium (10 - 20 mg/kg). Again the always use the rainfall received in the organic carbon status is low (0.5-2.5%; a growing season for these comparisons. little higher than the red soils) which is typical of soils in low rainfall Across central-western NSW droughts environments. occur about 1 year in every 5 years and can last up to 3½ years. Table 1 gives Climate Information for average annual rainfall and average central-western NSW growing season rainfall for the districts around CWFS Regional Sites (data from Rainfall the Rainman StreamFlow v 4 program). It Rainfall across central-western NSW also shows the number of droughts varies from about 600 mm a year to 390 greater than 12 months in length that have mm per year. Rainfall is highest in the occurred and the longest period of drought. Drought (Table 1) is defined as the driest 5% of years for each 12 month period.

Central Western NSW 39 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 1: Rainfall data for the region. Av. Annual Av. Growing Number of Longest drought Rainfall Season Rain droughts (months) Alectown 529 257 23 in 122 yrs 34 Condobolin 448 209 29inl24yrs 37 Euabalong 393 193 20 in 121 yrs 33 Gunning Gap 491 238 18 in 111 yrs 31 Merriwagga 370 194 20 in 124 yrs 39 Nyngan 444 192 25 in 123 yrs 33 Rankins Springs 438 239 26 in 118 yrs 27 Tottenham 473 211 24 in 121 yrs 36 Ungarie 442 222 21 in 109 yrs 32 Weethalle 473 209 21 in 117 yrs 33 Wirrinya 481 243 18 in 103 yrs 27 Frost Frost damage in wheat occurs when Scientists from NSW DPI (B. J. Scott and temperatures fall to about -2°C to -2.5ºC D. L. Liu) have worked on modelling during flowering. Frost probability or risk frost probability and have developed is the term used, which means - A 20% relationships between frost probability, frost risk after a particular date means that the southern position of the town in 1 year out of 5 (20% of years), there (latitude) and the height above sea level will be a frost occur after the said date. A of the town (altitude). They have found 10% frost risk after a particular date that the frost probability changes from means that in 1 year out of 10 (10% of north to south but not from east to west. years), there will be a frost occur after that Table 2 gives the last dates that their date. A 5% frost risk after a particular date model predicts for frost. This information means that in 1 year out of 20 (5% of may help you work out when these dates years), there will be a frost occur after that occur for your area. date.

Table 2: Frost information for the region (taken from the work of Scott and Liu) Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Temperature Averages for the monthly maximum and minimum temperatures for the Condobolin area are shown in Table 3.

40 Central Western NSW CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 3: Minimum and maximum temperatures (°C)

Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 18.9 19.0 15.9 11.1 7.7 4.3 3.6 5.2 7.4 11.3 14.1 17.1 Maximum 32.8 32.6 29.3 24.4 19.2 15.4 14.6 16.8 20.0 24.6 27.9 31.6 Growing Season Rainfall (GSR) In recent years there has been talk about The GSR is calculated using the sum of climate change and the unusual nature if April to September (inclusive) rainfall. In the current dry conditions. When you text books it is often seen as April to look at the Condobolin Growing Season October rainfall. In the Condobolin area, Rainfall (GSR) the current dry conditions most of the October rainfall is not used are not that unusual and there have been by the crop. Average GSR = 209 mm runs of dry seasons in the past (Table 4). (data from 1881 -2004)

Table 4: Growing season rainfall at Condobolin 1904 - 2004. GSR (mm) Years (1904-1953) Years (1954-2004) 51-100 1927,1946 1982, 1994 101 -150 1910,1911, 1913, 1914, 1919, 1928, 1954, 1957, 1959, 1967, 1972, 1976, 1933,1937,1940, 1941, 1949, 1953 2004 151-200 1904, 1907, 1908, 1918, 1922, 1962, 1965, 1966, 1971, 1973, 1975 1929, 1935, 1936, 1938, 1939, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1986, 1987, 1992, 1942,1944, 1951 1999,2002,2003 201-250 1909, 1912, 1915, 1921, 1923, 1955, 1958, 1960, 1964, 1968, 1977, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1930, 1932, 1984, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1934, 1943,1945, 1947, 1948 2001 251 -300 1906,1917, 1920, 1952 1961, 1963, 1969, 1970, 1978, 1985, 1997 301-350 1931, 1950 1974,1983,1988,2000 351-400 401-450 1905,1916 1956, 1990, 1998 If we look at each decade from 1880s to average GSR is 209 mm and AAR is 448 present and calculate a decade average mm, calculated from data from 1881 to GSR (Table 5), we find that the 1980s 2004. The figures show that although the and 1990s were on average wetter average is often quoted, there are few decades than the 2000s. It appears that years where average rainfall is the current dry spell is not so unusual for experienced. There are some huge the Condobolin area it's just that we've variations in rainfall. About every 10 or had some wet times in recent memory. so years, there is a GSR that adds 100 This information is not given to discount mm to the average GSR. To counteract the current conditions but to show that this, every 15 years or so there is a GSR there doesn't appear to be a great climate that detracts 100 mm rainfall from the change occurring. Conditions such as average. Below average GSR seem to these have occurred in the past. come in groups in the early part of the century (e.g. 1880-85, 1905-15, 1926-29, Figures 1 and 2 show how the rainfall 1932-42), in smaller groups between (GSR in Figure 1 and Annual Rainfall in 1950 and 1980 and in the last 20 years, Figure 2) of each year differs from the there have been relatively few GSR that long-term average. The long-term are below average.

Central Western NSW 41 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 5: Average GSR rainfall for each decade from 1881 - 2004. Decade Average GSR (mm) Difference from long-term average GSR (mm) 1880 186 -23 1890 243 + 34 1900 219 + 10 1910 193 -16 1920 204 -5 1930 199 -10 1940 167 -42 1950 214 + 5 1960 214 + 5 1970 208 -1 1980 220 + 11 1990 246 + 37 2000 - part 209 0

Figure 1: Graph showing difference of each year's GSR from long-term average GSR (1881-2004)

Figure 2: Difference between annual rainfall and long-term average annual rainfall (AAR) - 1881 to 2004.

42 Central Western NSW CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Farm Trends average, less than 1 day/week in the early 1990s and now work about 2 • The number of farmers in central- days/week off-farm (Figure 4). western NSW in 1989/90 was 5 650. • The average farm size in central This steadily decreased until 1994/5 western NSW is about 2 500 ha. when there were 4 900 fanners. Since • The proportion of land cropped has then the number of farmers have increased from about 20% of the farm ranged between 4 700 and 5 350. in the 1990s, to about 30% of the farm • The average age of farmers is 53 now. years and their spouse 51 years. • The average farmer spends about 50 hours a week on farm work. The average spouse 20 hours per week on farm work. Over the past 8 years spouses seem to be spending more time working on the farm (Figure 3). • Spouses' off-farm work is also increasing. Spouses worked, on

Figure 3: Average hours worked on-farm.

Hours worked on farm by the farmer and spouse

Figure 4: Average number of hours farmers' spouses work off-farm.

Off-farm work for a farmers spouse In central-western NSW

Central Western NSW 43 2004-2005 CWFS Research Compendium

Livestock data has been collated from the Livestock The main livestock enterprises are -wool, Condobolin, Forbes, Hillston and Nyngan meat sheep and beef cattle. There are also Rural Lands Protection Boards (RLPBs). small populations of dairy cattle, pigs, Sheep: Sheep numbers across the region horses, goats, deer and ostriches. have been declining over the last 14 years (Figure 5).

Figure 5: Sheep numbers in central western NSW

Cattle: Beef cattle numbers have not • Forbes RLPB has the highest shown the decline that sheep numbers number of pigs, horses, deer and have. Cattle numbers are shown in Table ostriches. Most stock numbers 6. have been declining in recent years. Other stock: • Goat numbers are greatest in the • Dairy Cattle - numbers reached a Nyngan and Hillston RLPBs. peak in the year 2000 and have since been declining.

Table 6: Average number of stock (1990-2003) for each RLPB

Forbes Condobolin Hillston Nyngan Total Sheep 1 750 000 1 250 000 600 000 750 000 4 350 000 Cattle 85 000 60 000 30 000 70 000 245 000 Dairy cattle 12 000 6 000 20 800 18 820 Pigs 24 000 10 000 150 250 34 400 Goats 4 000 6 000 8 000 7 000 25 000 Horses 2 500 900 150 700 4 250 Deer 1 200 250 10 40 1 500 Ostriches 70 80 0 0 150

44 Central Western NSW CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Cropping Blayney, Cowra, Bathurst, Lithgow, Average tonnages for crops grown in Rylstone and Oberon. We have been central western NSW are shown in the unable to obtain data just for the CWFS following graphs. The data has been region. (NOTE: different scale for t/ha on collected from ABARE and includes each graph). areas further to the east than the CWFS area. These areas include Orange,

Central Western NSW 45 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Grain Receivals NSW DPI produces Grain Summaries We have tried to obtain data from silos based on the District Agronomists' for receivals but this proved impossible. estimates (Table 7).

Table 7: Total grain received (tonnes; from estimates) from each area. 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 Condobolin 624 010 605 295 790 570 540 660 746 445 491 190 80 165 194 300 Nyngan 39 640 121 250 28 680 152 800 154 070 116 300 11 050 218 200 Hillston 209 200 87 530 166 150 301 150 280 800 217 100 4 740 203 700 Griffith 101 300 87 530 108 520 102 340 100 640 109 150 38 620 107 270 West Wy 472 050 538 270 652 960 663 900 602 980 545 240 69 500 282 700 along Parkes 288 950 162 400 261 700 241 250 160 050 277 650 91 450 121 100 Forbes 162 250 164 200 208 500 211 260 223 300 209 570 87 150 59 560 TOTAL 1 897 400 1 766 475 2 217 080 2 213 360 2 268 285 1 966 200 38 2675 1 186 830

Value of Agriculture • cereal production was $357 million Data from the Australian Bureau of • livestock slaughter was $ 195 million Statistics for 2000-01 indicates that for • all agricultural commodities was central-western NSW the gross value of; $619 million.

46 Central Western NSW CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Site Summary Sharon Taylor, CWFS

Trial Agenda in 2004 control in field peas at pre-sowing, post- 2004 was another proactive year for our sowing pre-emergent and post-emergent. 10 regional sites but production was limited by the continuing drought. Merriwagga During 2004, the organisation saw • Long-term rotation trial - established in fanners being actively involved in their 1999 to investigate the sustainability and regional sites to ensure that trials were profitability of cropping rotations and conducted to address their local needs. tillage methods. A total of 37 trials were planned, • Barley trial - New barley varieties and organised and conducted over the 2004 their agronomy growing season. The trials conducted at the 10 regional sites and the issues they Nyngan aimed to address were: • Wheat - (1) the effect of common root rot on several varieties of wheat with Alectown, Gunning Gap & Wirrinya different levels of resistance and (2) • Wheat trials - (1) the use of fertiliser rates for wheat fungicides for the strategic (seed • Field peas - fertiliser rates treatment) and tactical (foliar) control of • Barley trial - New barley varieties and leaf diseases, (2) the effect of wheat their agronomy density on the performance of H45 and Diamondbird Rankins Springs • Barley trial - New barley varieties • Long-term alternative production and their agronomy (not at Wirrinya) systems - established in 2000 to investigate • Canola trials - (1) Variety trial the long-term environmental, biological and comparing conventional and TT economic effects of alternative production varieties (Alectown only) and (2) the systems benefits of seed treatments on the • Vetch - comparison of the quality of hay performance of canola produced by new breeding lines compared • Field pea trials - (1) the impact of to Morava, Languedoc and Blanchefleur plant density on field pea production • Barley trial - New barley varieties and and (2) the impact of phosphorus, their agronomy sulphur and nitrogen fertilisers on field pea production Tottenham • Soil amelioration - (1) the use of • Alternative crops - comparison of the lime to ameliorate an acidic soil and to management, cost of production and yield improve crop yields (not at Wirrinya) of alternative crops, including field peas, (2) the use of lime, gypsum and a lupins, vetch, chickpeas and canola, lime/gypsum mix to ameliorate a sodic compared to wheat and under-sown barley soil and to improve crop yields (not at • Wheat - comparison of the performance Wirrinya). of wheat grown after field peas, lupins, vetch and under-sown barley from 2003 Euabalong • Barley trial - New barley varieties and • Pulse trial - (1) comparison of the their agronomy yield and production of alternative pulses, namely field peas, vetch and lupins compared to wheat and (2) weed

Central Western NSW 47 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Ungarie farmers? (5) have farmers implemented • Pulses - comparison of the yield and regional site research into their own gross margin of 5 field pea varieties farming system? (6) how important is the • Pastures - demonstration of the fanning systems comparison trial to your performance of different pasture species farming system? and (7) how happy are Note: Due to the drought these two farmers to see CWFS continue into the trials failed. Subsequently there are no future? results available in this compendium The survey was filled out by 32% of the Weethalle fanners attending our field days. The • Farming systems - demonstration of results are very positive. Some of the 6 different farming systems to answer findings are: the following farmers questions (i) can • Half of the farmers attending regional you sustainably continuously crop this site field days were not members of CWFS, land? (ii) Will you get herbicide showing the extension of CWFS resistant weeds with continuous information goes beyond our membership. cropping? (iii) which crop rotations are • Of the members who attend the field the most profitable? (iv) what is day 48% said they were involved in their happening to nitrogen in the rotation? local regional site, whilst of the non- and (v) what impact does continuous members 55%) said they would like to cropping have on soil chemistry and soil become involved. water levels? • Regional site research is not only Some of the trial results, from these addressing farmers needs (relevance) but it regional sites, are published in this is also considered to be important by 2004-2005 CWFS Annual Research fanners with respect to their farming Compendium. It goes without saying systems. that the performance of these trials was • The majority of farmers attending field again limited by drought, with some days suggested that regional sites could trials not being harvested. better cater for their needs by having more extension of trial results and more Field Days extension of agronomic issues. During September and October all 10 regional sites and the core site, held field days. The numbers in 2004 were up on 2003, to our surprise considering the ever worsening drought. The number of farmers attending our field days in 2004 was over 600, with the 2003 field days attracting over 400 fanners. At each field day a survey was conducted to look at the following: (1) how many people coming to our events are members? (2) do regional sites address issues which are of importance to fanners? (3) how can regional sites How relevant is regional site research and how important is this research better cater for farmer's needs? (4) how important is regional site research to

48 Central Western NSW CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

whilst they also believe the Farming • When asked if farmers had Systems Comparison trial is also implemented regional site research into moderately to very important to their their own farming systems 55% said yes farming systems. and 32% said no. • Farmers believe that the existence of CWFS into the future is very important,

Agenda for 2005 dry conditions, there is also little In 2005 our regional sites are going to be enthusiasm for sowing trials. With those operated in one of two ways, depending reasons in mind, some groups elected to on what each individual site would like to make 2005 a year focussing on learning do, these are (1) research focus or (2) through extension activities (e.g. extension focus. workshops, courses etc) and not research trials. There are 2 major reasons for this choice For further information regarding the being available in 2005. There was a activities of our regional sites for 2005 delay in re-funding for the CWFS project, please contact Sharon Taylor on 6895 which led to uncertainty with regard to 1050. funding and staff being available for the harvesting of trials. With the continuing

Central Western NSW 49 ALECTOWN

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF ALECTOWN RESULTS

• Apply fertiliser to wheat and canola at 20-25 kg P/ha. • Early (late April) and mid-season (late May) sowings yield well for all crops. The season determines which sowing time yields higher. • Gairdner barley sown at 60 kg/ha yields well in this environment. • Chlorsulfuron herbicides can damage wheat and decrease yields. Adding P and/or Zn will not diminish this damage. • There is no yield increase to any Zn fertiliser addition on the red cropping soils of central-western NSW where the surface 0-10 cm soil is acidic.

Alectown 51 CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003) ALECTOWN

Soil information for the between 1-15 kg S/ha. There was no Alectown area effect on wheat yield of applications of Soils at Alectown range from sandy zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg) or copper loams to loams (clay content ranging (Cu). Av. wheat yield 1.43 t/ha due to dry from 10% to 25%). The surface 0-10 cm conditions (2002). • Any application of P on canola is soil is typically acidic (pHca 4 - 6), effective cation exchange capacity better than none, with 25 kg P/ha the best (eCEC) ranges from 7-15 meq/100g and bet. There was no effect on canola yield most have medium phosphorus (P) status of applications of zinc (Zn), magnesium (Colwell P 12 - 30 mg/kg). The organic (Mg) or copper (Cu). Av. canola yield carbon status is low (0.5 - 1.5%) which is 0.65 t/ha due to dry conditions (2002). typical of soils in low rainfall Variety Trials environments. • Wheat sown in late May had higher Trial results for the Alectown yields (av. 5.66 t/ha) than that sown late April (av. 4.89 t/ha). Wylah was the best area early sown wheat and H45 the best mid- All conclusions given are from trials season wheat (2000). written up in full in the CWFS Annual • Canola sown late May had higher Research Compendiums from 1998 - yields (av. 1.55 t/ha) than that sown late 2004. For more details, please see the April (av. 1.16 t/ha). Surpass 600 and relevant article. The year of the trial is Rainbow were the best early sown given in brackets after the conclusion. varieties and Rainbow and Ripper the Fertiliser Trials best mid-season varieties (2000). • High rates of nitrogen (N) fertiliser • Gairdner was the best barley variety, (80 kg N/ha) decreased wheat along with some of the new breeding germination, regardless of fertiliser lines. 60 kg/ha was the optimum sowing coating or product applied. Germination rate for barley (2000). declined, although to a lesser extent, with • Wheat sown in late April yielded fertiliser application of 25 kg N/ha more (av. 3.7 t/ha) than that sown in late (1999). May (av. 2.58 t/ha). Whistler and Chara • Addition of phosphorus (P) fertiliser, were the top wheat varieties. Tantangara up to 40 kg P/ha, gave significant wheat barley and Ag Outback canola the top yield increases. Average wheat yield was yielding in those variety trials (2001). 5.35 t/ha (2000). Soil Amelioration Trials • Returns of $3 for every $ 1 spent on P, • Commenced on an acidic (0-10 cm applied at 20 kg P/ha, could be expected pHc 5.2) and sodic soil (exchangeable (2000). a sodium percentage ESP = 7; soil with an • Any P fertiliser addition was better ESP over 6 is termed sodic) with no than no P for both wheat and canola (av. effect of treatment on yield. Average yield of both 2.76 t/ha). The best barley yield 2.3 t/ha (2003). application was 25 kg P/ha (2001). • Any application of P and sulphur (S) Other Trials on wheat is better than none when 50 • A stripe rust control demonstration kg/ha of urea applied. 25 kg P/ha is the showed there was no yield or economic best bet for P. S can be applied at any rate

52 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

advantage to fungicide application in dry high, there was little yield increase with conditions and with a late stripe rust higher applications of P). infection. Average wheat yield 1.62 t/ha • If soil Colwell P is less than 30 ppm (2003). (or 30 mg/kg) then 20 kg P/ha applied as fertiliser should give an economic yield Sulphonylurea herbicides, phosphorus, increase (compared with lower P fertiliser zinc and wheat trials (2001-2003) applications). • Chlorsulfuron herbicides (e.g. • There were no yield increases to Glean®) were found to decrease wheat applied zinc (Zn) fertiliser. yields at some sites under some seasonal • P and Zn did not change any yield conditions. penalty suffered because of chlorsulfuron • The effect of phosphorus (P) herbicide damage in wheat (i.e. you can't application on wheat yield was correlated add extra P or Zn to get rid of the with soil P levels (i.e. if soil P was low, damage). then there was a large yield increase to higher applications of P. If soil P was

Table 1: Rainfall data for the Alectown area 1998 - 2004.

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 60 17 4 53 71 62 90 83 94 59 108 21 722 1999 13 4 154 70 6 24 49 80 52 151 40 88 731 2000 19 16 86 66 74 24 27 72 26 81 104 7 602 2001 10 52 80 36 33 58 69 4 34 29 32 10 447 2002 19 147 7 22 38 14 9 7 58 0 0 18 339 2003 20 72 29 22 2 25 45 74 6 51 27 13 386 2004 18 45 39 6 34 51 32 59 37 40 49 78 488 Climate Information for the annual rainfall on record was 183 mm in Alectown area 1944. Rainfall Frost The rainfall for Goonumbla has been Frost information for the Alectown area is recorded for 122 years, from 1883 to best taken from the Parkes data as it is the 2004. Goonumbla is the closest recording closest location. The Parkes data indicates station to Alectown. Using this historical that a frost can occur up until the 11th information a monthly rainfall record for September one year out of five (Table 2). Goonumbla (the Alectown area) can be In one year out of ten years, a frost will seen in Figure 1. The Alectown area occur as late as the 29th September and in receives its highest rainfall over the one year out of twenty years a frost can summer, with January receiving the most occur up until the 12n October. To use this rainfall, and its lowest rainfall over information, you would be best to sow at a autumn and spring, with September time late enough so that wheat will flower receiving the least rainfall. after September each year.

The average annual rainfall for the Temperature Alectown area is 529 mm, with a standard Averages of each month's maximum and deviation of 172 mm. The highest annual minimum daily air temperatures for the rainfall on record was 1,193 mm in Alectown area are shown in Table 3. 1950, whilst the lowest

Alectown 53 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 1: Rainfall at Alectown

Table 2: Frost information (from the work of B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu)

Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Table 3: Maximum and minimum temperature for Alectown

Temp (ºC) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 18.7 18.9 16.2 12.1 8.9 5.6 4.4 5.8 7.7 11.2 13.9 16.8 Maximum 32.6 32.4 29.2 24.8 19.7 16.1 15.0 16.8 20.0 24.4 27.7 31.3 Gibson, the Crop Evaluation Unit staff Acknowledgements (Neil Durning, Tim McNee and Stuart This work would not have been possible Druce), statisticians and field day speakers. without the support of all involved with • Thanks to those involved with the CWFS. At the Alectown site thanks to the Bogan Regional Site that has since closed, following people for their work, time, particularly Warwick Jones. effort and support (both past and present). • Regional Site Co-operators: Westcott • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda family, Crisp family, Allan Forbes, Peter Stockman and Sharon Taylor. Unger, John Magill, Hall family and Geoff • NSW DPI District Agronomists: McCallum. Keith Woodlands and Karen Roberts. • Regional Site Chairman: Richard • Site Coordinators: Allan Umbers and Westcott Andrew Rice. • Regional Site Committee members. • David Harbison, Hi Fert, who • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC conducted many of the fertiliser trials. • CWFS Regional Sites' Sponsor: • CWFS staff who assisted with these Grain Growers Association trials: James Deeves, Rob Sanderson, • Alectown Sponsors: Hi Fert, Dovuro Catherine Evans, Allan L’Estrange and seeds, NSW DPI, Roy Lees and Son. Daryl Reardon. • To all who have attended Field Days, • NSW DPI Staff who assisted with the meetings, talks, seminars and other events; trials: particularly Trevor Russell and Greg thank you for your support.

54 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Fungicides for strategic and tactical control of wheat leaf diseases in central-west NSW

Ken Motley, NSW DPI Forbes Karen Roberts, NSW DPI Parkes Rob Griffith, Bayer Crop Science Gordon Murray, NSW DPI Wagga Wagga Andrew Rice, Ivey ATP (Agricultural Consultants and Chartered Accountants) Kerry Wratten, NSW DPI Wagga Wagga Catherine Evans, CWFS

Key Points

• H45 proved far more susceptible to stripe rust than Diamondbird in 2004. • With the dry conditions of 2004, when yields were higher (2-3 t/ha) stripe rust infection significantly decreased yield in H45 by 16%-17%. Grain quality effects were also recorded at the site with the highest level of infection. • Jockey® seed treatment provided some residual control of stripe rust at two out of the three sites. • Foliar fungicides proved very effective at reducing stripe rust infection. • Only the combination of seed applied + foliar fungicide resulted in a significantly higher yield and quality than the nil treatment with H45 wheat. • Yellow leaf spot had no effect on yield or quality of the susceptible variety Diamondbird.

Background The aim of these trials was to assess the These trials follow on from CWFS trials potential for yield and quality responses at Wirrinya in 2003. With the dry from controlling Stripe Rust and Yellow conditions of 2003, these earlier trials Leaf Spot (YLS) in central-western (CW) showed no significant grain yield or NSW. quality response from fungicide applications for the control of stripe rust Stripe rust has emerged as a serious (Motley and Rice, 2004). disease for farmers in CW NSW since 2003. Trial data from south-eastern NSW The trials in 2004 also allowed the has shown that stripe rust can cause opportunity to assess the potential for significant yield and quality losses in controlling YLS with fungicides at one susceptible wheat varieties. However there site (Goonumbla). This was due to the is little local trial data to indicate the presence of significant levels of retained potential yield and quality consequences wheat stubble from the previous crop in of stripe rust. CW NSW has less reliable 2003 that provided a source of infection spring weather conditions than south- for the 2004 crop. eastern NSW, which is needed both for severe stripe mst development and high grain yield potentials.

Alectown 55 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

The varieties H45 (very susceptible to Methods Three trial sites at Gunning Gap, stripe rust; well suited to this climate) and Wirrinya and Goonumbla (Alectown) Diamondbird (an older variety with some were sown as randomised blocks with 3 acid soil tolerance and moderately replicates. Crop rotation histories varied susceptible to stripe rust) were both sown between the sites. In 2003 (previous crop at a seeding rate of 60kg/ha with year) the Gunning Gap and Goonumbla 100kg/ha of DAP (18N; 20P). Sowing sites were sown to wheat, while the was into moisture after sowing rains (late Wirrinya site was pasture/fallow. All May to mid June). Post emergent soils were red soils with a sandy loam herbicides: Tristar® and Jaguar® were surface and heavier clay subsoil. applied as required. Fungicides were Analyses of the top soil (0-10 cm) applied at crop growth stages Z45 and at showed: pHca 5.8 at Gunning Gap, 4.6 at Z70 (Tables 1 and 2). The foliar Wirrinya and 5.4 at Goonumbla and CEC fungicides were applied with a hand held (meq/100g) 6.5 at Gunning Gap, 8.0 at boom at a walk speed of 5km/hr and Wirrinya, 7.9 at Goonumbla. Drought has water rate of 200L/ha. Detailed severely limited crop production at the assessments of stripe rust were made at sites for the past 4 years. In general there Z70. Detailed assessments of YLS were has been little to no subsoil moisture at made at Z13 and Z70. Table 2 provides sowing, with the occurrence of late further information on the exact dates and sowing rains and dry springs. timing of operations and assessments.

Table 1: Fungicide rates and indicative costs. Actives used Products names Application Rate /100 Rate Adjuvant Indicative Cost Method kg seed (/ha) $/L $/ha* Fluquinconazole Jockey seed dressing 450 mL n/a $75 $20.25 Jockey + 450 mL 145 mL n/a + $75 $33.35 Fluquinconazole + seed dressing + Folicur, Orius n/a 1,000 mL $8 $8.00 Tebuconazole foliar fungicide 1%oil Bayleton, Turret, Triad foliar fungicide n/a 145 mL $8 $13.10 Triadimefon 125EC Folicur, Orius n/a 290 mL Nil 0 $24.70 foliar fungicide Tebuconazole 430SC Folicur, Orius n/a 250 mL + 1 % oil $8 $11.25 foliar fungicide Tebuconazole 430SC Tilt, Bumper n/a 500 mL + 1%oil 0 $22.50 foliar fungicide Propiconazole 250EC Tilt, Bumper Nil $4 Propiconazole 250EC foliar fungicide Nil 5 *cost includes adjuvant

Table 2: Diary of trial management activity (2004).

Activity Gunning Gap Wirrinya Goonumbla Sowing 29-May 16-Jun 9-Jun PE herbicide early 11 -Aug Tristar + Jaguar 11-Aug Tristar + Jaguar 11-Aug Tristar + Jaguar PE herbicide late 1 -Sep Tristar . _ Z13 (3 leaf) assessment - - 14-Jul Z45 (mid boot) fungicide application 14-Sep 17-Sep 23-Sep Z70 (late flower) fungicide application 14-Oct 16-Oct 20-Oct Z70 (late flower) assessment 18-Oct 19-Oct 22-Oct Harvest 16-Dec 18-Dec 17-Dec Results and discussion in the Gunning Gap trial site until early Seasonal conditions and disease October (Z65 - mid flower). Good development rainfall in late September / early October Stripe rust was first detected in the promoted rapid development of the stripe Goonumbla trial site in mid September rust infection at both the Wirrinya and (Z40 - early booting) and in the Wirrinya Goonumbla sites through early and mid trial site in late September (Z55 - head October. Seasonal conditions at the emergence). Stripe rust was not observed Gunning Gap site were not as conducive for the development of stripe rust. Dry

56 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

and warm conditions in late October measurements were taken. YLS early November at all three sites slowed developed very early at Goonumbla site, the development of the stripe rust and with rapid development of infections on reduced grain yield potentials. The the young crop leaves. A comparison Wirrinya site had the highest levels of between the water limited yield stripe rust. potentials (Table 3; using the French and Schultz model) and the actual yield Goonumbla site was the only site with achieved (Table 5) suggests that the yields large quantities of retained wheat stubble, at all sites did not meet the water limited and therefore high infection levels of yield potential. With the late sowing YLS. As such it was the only site where this is not surprising. detailed YLS infection and control

Table 3: 2004 rainfall at Gunning Gap, Wirrinya and Goonumbla.

Rainfall (mm) Water limited Monthly Rainfall Annual Fallow Growing season yield potentialA No Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr I M ' Jul Au Se Oct No Dec Total (Nov-Mar) (Apr to Oct) t/ha Gunning Gap 29 32 58 26 23 0 2 J49 12 29 31 62 5 105 428 167 212 3,1 Wirrinya 0 14 72 66 4.5 6 19 63 21 25 31 54 29 95 482 163 210 3.0 Goonumbla 26 34 61 45 21 4 4 52 27 52 44 38 31 82 503 191 259 4.3 Awater limited yield potential (t/ha) = ((Nov to Feb) X 30% + (Mar) X 50%)mm + (Growing season rainfall -110)mm) X 20(kg grain/mm) /1000 Stripe rust incidence and % stripe rust suggested to be a good disease leaf area infection monitoring measurement when stripe rust A strong relationship was found between levels are low; however, leaf area stripe rust incidence (% of leaves infection becomes the preferred infected) and % stripe rust leaf area measurement when stripe rust levels are infection on the flag leaf (Figure 1). This high. The relationship depicted in Graph relationship was found to be similar at 1 appears to fit in closely with that each site, despite differences in the described in the extension literature magnitude of infection. Figure 1 (Murray et al, 2005). Stripe rust indicated that beyond an incidence of incidence was found to have less 60% of flag leaves infected with stripe statistical variability than % stripe rust rust, the % of leaf area infected with area infection in these experiments, and stripe rust increase rapidly. Figure 1, also thus was the most useful for determining suggests that 100% stripe rust incidence significant differences between control correlates with about 10% leaf area treatments. infection. Stripe rust incidence is

Figure 1: Relationship between stripe rust incidence and % stripe rust leaf area infection (flag leaf only) - combined results from 3 trial sites for the wheat variety H45 in 2004.

Alectown 57 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Stripe rust control controlled at the Wirrinya and Goonumbla • Variety effects sites (with Jockey® + Tebuconazole) H45 H45 proved far more susceptible to stripe yielded significantly better than rust than Diamondbird at all three sites Diamondbird. (Table 4). At the Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites the H45 nil treatments At the low level stripe rust site at Gunning had stripe rust incidence levels of 98% Gap, H45 yielded 3 times higher and had and 92% respectively, being well above much lower screenings levels than the suggested thresholds of 10-20% for a Diamondbird regardless of stripe rust highly susceptible variety (Murray et ah, control treatment. This is thought to be 2005). The level of stripe rust in the attributed to the timing of severe dry Diamondbird nil treatments all three sites seasonal conditions in late September was far less than H45 and equal to or (before the rain) coinciding with the below the suggested incidence threshold flowering of Diamondbird. The quicker of 30-40% for a moderately susceptible maturing H45 variety may have partially variety (Murray et ah, 2005). However, avoided these tough conditions at despite the much higher levels of stripe flowering. The only observed advantage of rust in H45, it yielded equal to or higher Diamondbird over H45 occurred at the than Diamondbird (Table 5) and had Goonumbla site where protein was screenings equal to or lower than significantly higher. Diamondbird. When stripe rust was

Table 4: Pathology assessments of stripe rust and YLS in H45 and Diamondbird at 3 sites in 2004 (Nil fungicide treatments).

Gunning gap Wirrinya Goonumbla Variety : SR SR SR YLS (Nil Flag Incid- Flag Incid- Leaf Flag Incid- Leaf Z13 Z70 fungicide area ence area ence area area ence area area area %A m treatment) %A %B %A %B %c %B %c %u %u H45 0.54 20 8.9 98 19.5 6.9 92 10.9 3.0 6.4 Diamondbird 0.01 1 0.5 31 0.2 0.2 15 0.1 50.0 38.3 Isd (p<0.05) 0.22 7 1.8 10 5.2 1.7 10 4.8 9.9 7.2 Aflag area % = the % of flag leaf area covered with SR at Z70 Bincidence% = the % of flag leaves with SR visibly present at Z70 cLeaf area % = the % of leaf area (all leaves) covered with SR at Z70 DYLS area % = the % of leaf area (all leaves) covered with YLS at Z30 or Z70

Table 5: Grain yield and quality results for H45 and Diamondbird at 3 sites in 2004 (Nil fungicide treatments).

Variety Yield Gunning i gap Weight Yield Wirrinya Screen Weight Yield Goonu mbla Weight (Nil fungicide t/ha Screen Protein kg/hL t/ha Protein % kg/hL t/ha Screen Protein kg/hL treatment) % % % % % H45 1.49 100% 2.0 15.2 75.3 1.79 100% 11.8 13.4 70.6 3.27 100% 6.9 9.2 74.0 Diamondbird 0.52 35% 9.7 17.5 72.1 1.81 101% 10.0 14.7 73.8 3.11 95% 8.9 10.3 73.9 Isd (p<0.05) 0.14 10% 2.6 0.4 2.5 ns ns 0.5 2.2 ns 2.6 0.7 2.4 • Fungicide product effects Jockey® is only registered for 6 weeks Jockey® seed dressing provided control and then 6 weeks protection of significant stripe rust control at the stripe rust. The results at the Wirrinya and Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites, but not at Goonumbla sites suggest that when stripe the Gunning Gap site (Table 6). This is rust infections occur early, this early thought to be because the Gunning Gap control and protection may have beneficial site was sown earlier and the stripe rust effects lasting longer than 12 w developed later than at the other sites.

58 Alectowri 2004-2005

CWFS Research Compendium

All of the foliar fungicides provided Goonumbla site. Significant screening significant levels of stripe rust control at reductions were also recorded at the the 2 sites where stripe rust was a Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites, and a problem (i.e. Wirrinya and Goonumbla significantly higher test weight was sites). Tebuconazole and propiconazole recorded at the Wirrinya site. It is gave significantly better control of stripe suggested that the combination treatment rust than Jockey® alone or triadimefon. provided early and late control of stripe However, triadimefon gave significantly rust. A consistent trend of small yield better stripe rust control than Jockey® benefits from Jockey® and Z45 foliar alone at the Gunning Gap and fungicide treatments (applied alone) Goonumbla, but not at the Wirrinya site. appears in these data at the Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites, however, they were not The only treatment to result in a statistically significant. significant yield increase and quality advantage over the nil treatment was the No benefits were observed from stripe combination of Jockey® + tebuconazole rust control at the low stripe rust infection at the Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites level the Gunning Gap site and as such (Table 7). Significant yield increases this data has been omitted. were in the order of 17% (0.31 t/ha) at the Wirrinya site and 16% (0.52 t/ha) at the

Table 6: Pathology assessments of the effect of fungicide products on stripe rust in H45 at 3 sites in 2004 Gunning gap Wirrinya Goonumbla Treatment Flag Incid- Flag Incid- Leaf Flag Incid- Leaf area ence area ence area area ence area Fungicide Rate Timing %A %B %A %B %c %A %B %c Nil 0.54 c 20 b 8.9 c 98 f 19.5 c 6.9 c 92 e 10.9 b Jockey® (Fluquinconazoie) 450 ml/t at sowing 0.54 c 20 b 4.0 b 83 e 14.0 b 2.1 b 67 d 2.7 a Jockey® + Tebuconazole 145 ml/ha Z45 0.00 a 0a 0.6 a 27 a 0.4 a 0.4 a 23 ab 0.0 a Triadimefon 1000 ml/ha Z45 0.27 b 7a 1.7 a 70 d 1.3 a 1.3 ab 61 d 0.4 a Tebuconazole 145 ml/ha Z45 0.00 a 0a 1.2 a 59 c 0.7 a 0.6 ab 29 bc 0.5 a Tebuconazole 290 ml/ha Z45 0.00 a 0a 0.7 a 39 b 0.1 a 0.2 a 14 a 0.0 a Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z45 0.01 a 1 a 1.5 a 60 cd 1.4 a 0.6 ab 34 c 0.2 a Propiconazole 500 ml/ha Z45 0.00 a 0a 0.9 a 43 b 0.4 a 0.5 ab 28 bc 0.2 a Isd (p<0.05) 0.22 7 1.8 10 5.2 1.7 10 4.8 Results within columns that have different letters beside them are significantly different (p<0.05) Aflag area % = the % of flag leaf area covered with SR at Z70 Bincidence% = the % of flag leaves with SR visibly present at Z70 cLeaf area % = the % of leaf area (all leaves) covered with SR at Z70

Table 7: Grain yield and quality results of fungicide products on H45 at 2 sites in 2004 Treatment Wirrinya Goonumbla Fungicide Rate Timing Yield % of Screen Protein Weight Yield % of Screen Protein Weight % t/ha nil % kg/hl- t/ha nil % " kg/hl. Nil 1.79 a 100 11.8 13.4 70.6 3.27 ab 100 6.9 9.2 74.0 Jockey" - 450 ml/t at sow 2.01 ab 113 10.6 13.5 72.6 3.55 be 108 5.1 9.5 74.7 Fluquinconazole JoekeyR+ 145 ml/ha Z45 2.10b 117 7.2 13.4 74.4 3.79 c 116 5.7 9.5 72.4 Tebuconazole Triadimefon 1000 ml/ha Z45 1.99 ab 111 9.7 13.8 72.8 3.33 ab 102 6.0 9.6 74.0 Tebuconazole 145 ml/ha Z45 1.85 ab 103 10.8 13.4 72.9 3.52 be 107 6.9 9.4 72.5 Tebuconazole 290 ml/ha Z45 2.00 ab 112 10.2 13.6 72.1 3.57 be 109 5.9 9.5 73.7 Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z45 1.89 ab 106 10.3 13.5 72.7 3.43 be 105 6.9 9.7 73.7 Propiconazolc 500 ml/ha Z45 1.86 ab 104 8.2 14.4 72.6 3.37 ab 103 5.3 9.9 74.7 Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z70 1.79 a 100 8.5 13.9 71.3 3.04 a 93 6.5 9.3 70.4 Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z45 + Z70 1.93 ab 108 10.5 13.9 73.6 3.49 be 107 6.9 9.5 68.9 lsd (P< 0.05) 0.25 14 3.6 0.5 2.2 0.37 11 ns ns 2.4 Results within columns that have different letters beside them are significantly different (P

Alectown 59 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

• Foliar fungicide rate effects significant differences were observed The higher rates of tebuconazole and when only the flag leaf was assessed at propiconazole provided significantly Z70, suggesting that most of the control better stripe rust control than the lower occurred on the lower leaves. rates at the Wirrinya site. A significant rate effect was observed at the Tebuconazole and propiconazole Goonumbla site only for tebuconazole. provided significant control of YLS in No rate effect was observed at the low Diamondbird (Table 8). However, high level stripe rust site of the Gunning Gap rates of tebuconazole were needed to site. However, despite the high rates of achieve significant control of YLS, while tebuconazole and propiconazole giving as both high and low rates of propiconazole good if not better control of stripe rust achieved significant YLS control. than the combination treatment of Triadimefon provided no control of YLS. Jockey® + tebuconazole, they did not As with Jockey®, triadimefon is not provide any significant yield or quality promoted to control YLS and this result is advantages over the Nil treatment as to be expected. Despite significant YLS recorded with the combination treatment. control with tebuconazole and • Timing effects propiconazole, no fungicide treatment The effects of the late applications of resulted in any significant grain yield or propiconazole at Z70 on stripe rust quality advantages in Diamondbird. infection were difficult to assess as the dry seasonal conditions naturally slowed No significant levels of YLS disease or its the stripe rust development. There was no control were observed in H45 at the yield or quality response to the late Goonumbla site and as such these data are applications. However, the fact that the not presented. combination treatment of a seed applied + foliar was the only treatment to result in a Economic analysis significant yield and quality advantages An economic analysis of stripe rust suggests that early control is likely to be control in H45 using the product prices very important for obtaining maximum (Table 1) and grain yield / quality advantage. responses (Table 7) was conducted to determine if the relative profitability of Yellow leaf spot (YLS) control fungicide treatments. Grain prices used in • Variety effects the analysis are based on actual Graincorp Diamondbird was far more susceptible to Trading cash prices for the 2004/05 YLS at all stages than H45 (Table 4). harvest (delivered Parkes Sub Terminal). This is well known and publicised in Base prices for bin grades (not varietal extension literature such as the NSW grades) are taken as averages for the main Winter Crop Variety Sowing Guide harvest delivery period (15.11.04 to (McRae et al,,2005). 29.12.04). All prices used are GST • Fungicide product and rate effects exclusive and on a net delivered silo Jockey® seed dressing provided no basis. In addition to the base price, protein control of YLS. Jockey® is not and screenings increments (price promoted to control YLS and this result premium/deductions) were calculated is to be expected. using the applicable Graincorp matrices. Moisture was assumed to be a standard Significant YLS control was observed 12.5% (i.e. no price premium or discount) with some of the foliar fungicides when for all treatments. all the leaves were assessed at Z70. No

60 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 8. Pathology assessments of the effect of fungicide products on YLS in Diamondbird at Goonumbla in 2004 Z13 Z70 Z70 Treatment Leaf Flag Leaf area area area Fungicide Rate Timing %D %E %D Nil 50 28 38 cd Jockey® (Fluquinconazole) 450 ml/t at sowing 53 31 34 bcd Jockey® + Tebuconazole 145 ml/ha Z45 - 26 34 bcd Triadimefon 1000 ml/ha Z45 - 29 42 d Tebuconazole 145 ml/ha Z45 - 27 32 bc Tebuconazole 290 ml/ha Z45 - 26 28 ab Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z45 - 25 22 a Propiconazole 500 ml/ha Z45 - 29 21 a Isd (p<0.005) ns ns 7.24 Results within columns that have different letters beside them are significantly different (p<0.05) DYLS area % = the % of leaf area (all leaves) covered with YLS at Z30 or Z70 EYLS area % = the % of flag leaf area covered with YLS at Z70 The results of the economic analysis rust infection did not have a negative should be treated as only a guide to the effect on H45 yield. At all three sites expected relative profitability of H45 yielded equal or better than fungicide treatments. The base grain Diamondbird even when stripe rust was price plummet by over $30/t when not controlled. This shows the screenings were greater than 10%. agronomic advantage of H45 for late Screenings levels at the Wirrinya site sowings and dry spring finishes. were around 10%, and so the price achieved may represent a statistical These trials show that seed applied and 'quirk’ rather than a real fungicide effect. foliar fungicides can be used to control In addition the net benefit results have stripe rust in susceptible varieties such as not been statistically analysed. H45. The seed applied fungicide Jockey® can provide lasting control of The analysis results (Table 8) suggest that stripe rust when infection occurs early. economically viable responses to However, it offers little or no protection fungicide treatment were achieved in H45 to late infections. Of the 3 foliar at the Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites fungicides trialled, tebuconazole and despite the dry conditions in 2004. Low propiconazole appeared to provide levels of stripe rust and a lack of any superior stripe rust control over significant yield responses meant it was triadimefon. Rate responses with not economically viable to control stripe tebuconazole and propiconazole were rust in H45 and Diamondbird at the obvious at the high level stripe rust Gunning Gap site, and in Diamond at the infected Wirrinya site. None of the Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites, and as fungicides alone provided a significant such these data have not been included in grain yield increase regardless of rate. this report. The combination of a seed applied + Conclusion foliar fungicide was the best option in these trials, providing early and late H45 proved far more susceptible to stripe control of stripe rust, with the result rust than Diamondbird. However, when being an increase in H45 yields by 16- yield potentials and stripe rust infection 17%o at the 2 sites where stripe rust was pressure are low due to dry seasonal above threshold levels. It also resulted in conditions (e.g. Gunning Gap site) stripe a significant improvement in grain

Alectown 61 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 9: Grain grade, price and net economic benefit from fungicide treatments on H45 in 2004. Treatment Wirrinya Goon mbla Grade Price Net benefit Grade Price Net benefit Fungicide Rate Timing $/t $/ha $/t $/ha Nil HPS1 $128 - AUH2 $152 - Jockey® conazole) 450 ml/t at sowing HPS1 $128 $8 AUH2 $152 $21 Jockey®(Fl i + Tebuconazole 145 ml/ha Z45 AUH2 $152 $56 AUH2 $152 $45 Triadimefon 1000 ml/ha Z45 AUH2 $152 $65 AUH2 $152 $0 Tebuconazole 145 ml/ha Z45 HPS1 $128 -$6 AUH2 $152 $24 Tebuconazole 290 ml/ha Z45 HPS1 $128 $2 AUH2 $152 $21 Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z45 AUH2 $152 $48 AUH2 $152 $13 Propiconazole 500 ml/ha Z45 HPS1 $128 -$13 AUH2 $152 -$7 Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z70 AUH2 $152 $32 AGP1 $139 -$85 Propiconazole 250 ml/ha Z45 + Z70 AUH2 $152 $43 AGP1 $139 -$33 Net benefit = $/ha benefit above Nil treatment after taking into account additional income and costs. quality (screenings and test weight) at Motley, K. and Rice, A. (2004). Gunning Wirrinya. Gap and Wirrinya - Wheat Stripe Rust and Fungicide Control. CWFS Research Given the level of stripe rust was above Compendium 2003-2004. pp 75-80. threshold levels in H45 at the Wirrinya and Goonumbla sites; a greater response Murray, G., Wellings, C, Simpfendorfer, to stripe rust control was expected. These S. and Cole, C. (2005). Stripe rust: trials highlight that dry spring conditions Understanding the disease in wheat. can dramatically limit stripe rust NSW DPI. development and the potential for obtaining economic benefits from its Acknowledgements control. These trials were conducted as part of the CWFS Regional Site program. The trial Diamondbird proved far more susceptible sites were supported by the Grain to YLS than H45. Tebuconazole and Growers Association and GRDC. Greg propiconazole provided significant Gibson (NSW DPI) provided invaluable control of YLS on the lower leaves. technical assistance. The data was However, reducing YLS infection had no analysed by Helen Nicol. Special thanks effect on grain yield or quality at the to the cooperating farmers that hosted the Goonumbla site. Further trials are needed trials: Bill Scott (Gunning Gap), Kim and to determine whether YLS has any major Wendy Muffett (Wirrinya) and Geoff effect on wheat yield and quality in McCallum (Goonumbla). Sharon Taylor southern NSW. This trial series will be (CWFS) also assisted with the editing this continued in 2005. paper.

References McRae, F.J., McCaffery, D.W. and Mathews, P.W. (2005). Winter Crop Variety Sowing Guide 2005. NSW DPI.

62 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Field Pea Nutrition Trials 2004 Ken Motley, NSW Dept of Primary Industries, Forbes Karen Roberts, NSW Dept of Primary Industries, Parkes David Harbison, D R Agriculture Pty Ltd (formerly of Hi Fert) Andrew Rice, Ivey ATP

Key Points • Significant grain yield responses to P fertiliser application occurred at the Goonumbla site. • At Goonumbla, 25 kg P/ha significantly increased grain yield over 15 kg P/ha only when applied with starter N. • Field peas proved very sensitive to heliothis damage at Gunning Gap and to harvest delays at Wirrinya.

Background The 2004 trials follow on from similar Field peas are a minor rotational crop in the trials conducted in 2000 at Wirrinya Forbes and Parkes districts. However, (Motley et al, 2001). fanners are showing increased interest in the crop because of the release of new Methods improved field pea varieties, field peas’ Fertiliser mixes of single super phosphate suitability to late sowing breaks and the (SSP), triple super phosphate (TSP), MAP disappointing performance of canola over and sulphur coated MAP (Super M) were the last 3 dry years. made to achieve the desired nutrient rates. Each trial was arranged as a randomised Field pea nutrition trials were established at block design with six replicates. Excell the Gunning Gap, Wirrinya and Alectown field peas were sown at a rate of 100 kg/ha (Goonumbla location) CWFS Regional using a cone seeder. Sowing occurred on Sites in 2004 with the aim of investigating the 1st June at Gunning Gap, 9th June at the potential for response to P rates above Goonumbla and 16th June at Wirrinya. 15 kg/ha. The trial was also designed to Weeds and pests were controlled using measure the responsiveness of field peas to herbicides and insecticides as required. starter nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S). Heliothis pressure was very high in 2004. Insecticide application at Gunning Gap occurred too late, with an estimated yield loss of greater than 50%.

Table 1: Rainfall at the field pea nutrition trial sites 2004

Rainfall (mm) Water limited Location Monthly Rainfall Annual Fallow Growing season yield potentialA Nov De Ja Fe M Ap Ma Jun Ju Au Se Oc No Da Total (Nov-Mar) (Apr to Oct) t/ha Goonumbla 26 34 61 45 21 4 46 52 27 52 44 38 31 82 503 191 259 28 Wirrinya 0 14 72 66 4. 6 16 625 21 25 31 54 29 95 482 163 210 1.8 Gunning Gap 29 32 58 26 23 0 29 49 12 29 31 62 5 105 428 167 212 20 AWater limited yield potential (t/ha) = ((Nov to Feb) X 30%+(Mar) X 50%)rTm+(Grafting season rainfall-130)mn) X 15(kg grain) / 1000

Table 2: Soil test summary of trials site in 2004

Location pH P (Bray) S (KCI40) Nitrate N CEC Ca:Mg Al Na CaCI2 ppm ppm ppm meq/100g ratio % of cations % of cations Goonumbla 4.8 19 24 55 10.3 1.3 0.1 1.7 Wirrinya 6.8 6 22 9 16.2 3.3 0.0 1.3 Gunning Gap 5.0 38 8 9 6.4 1.4 0.2 1.6

Alectown 63 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Results and discussion Yield results Seasonal conditions All fertiliser treatments significantly A number of factors external to the trial increased yield over the Nil at Goonumbla design affected the results obtained at the (Table 3). 15 kg P/ha resulted in a yield Wirrinya and Gunning Gap sites. Harvest increase of 19% above the Nil. Significant delays due to machinery break downs and 8 yield responses to P rates greater than 15 days of consecutive rain at the Wirrinya kg P/ha only occurred when the P fertiliser site meant that this site suffered high grain contained some N (i.e. starter N). N is yield losses due to pod shattering. Yield most likely to be beneficial where N soil figures obtained from a neighbouring field fertility is low or where nodulation pea variety trial harvested before the rain conditions are poor. Neither of these had Excell yield at 1.2 t/ha. Excell only conditions appeared to exist at Goonumbla. yielded an average of 0.5 t/ha in the Generally a limit of 5-10 kg N/ha is Wirrinya nutrition trial, suggesting that the recommended at sowing so as to reduce the rain and delayed harvest caused risk of inhibition of nodulation and approximately 60% yield loss due unnecessary biomass growth. A soil P shattering. Excell is well known to shatter concentration (Bray) of 19 ppm is not badly if a delay in harvest occurs. Other considered very low, but is considered field pea varieties such as Kaspa have good lower than optimal. There was no evidence shattering tolerance. of S responses at Goonumbla. This was to be expected given that the S levels at The Gunning Gap site was abandoned due Goonumbla were high. to poor yield potential (estimated at less than 0.3 t/ha) as a result of poor seasonal No significant yield responses were conditions and heliothis damage. recorded with any fertiliser treatment at Wirrinya. The field peas performed well at Goonumbla. Table 3: Field pea responses to fertiliser at Goonumbla and Wirrinya 2004. Treatment Name Products Nutrients applied (kg/ha) Goonumbla Wirrinya used N p S t/ha % Nil t/ha % Nil Nil NilP 0 0 0 2.20 a 100% 0.46 100% ON,15P, 15S SSP/TSP 0 15 13 2.62 b 119% 0.52 113% 0N.25P, 15S SSP/TSP 0 25 14 2.74 bc 125% 0.54 117% 0N.40P, 15S SSP/TSP 0 40 15 2.78 bc 127% 0.52 114% ON,25P, OS TSP 0 25 0 2.65 be 121% 0.58 125% 11N, 25P, OS MAP 11 25 0 2.85 c 130% 0.49 107% 11N.25P,15S Super M 11 25 15 2.84 c 129% 0.56 120% LSD (P<0.05) 0.20 9% ns ns Results within columns that have different letters beside them are siqnificantly different (D<0.05!

References These trials were conducted as part of the Motley, K., Harbison, D. and Rice, A. CWFS Regional Site program. The trial (2001). Phosphorus response in field peas. sites were supported by the Grain Growers CWFS Research Compendium 2000-2001. Association, GRDC and Hi-Fert fertilisers. pp. 104-109 Greg Gibson (NSW DPI) provided invaluable technical assistance. The data Acknowledgements was analysed by Helen Nicol (consulting Special thanks to Hi-Fert for their direct statistician). Thanks go to the trial co- support of this trial series. operators; Geoff McCallum (Goonumbla), Kim and Wendy Muffett (Wirrinya) and Hodges Family (Gunning Gap).

64 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 An Evaluation of Seed Treatments for Controlling Insects and Diseases in Canola.

Ken Motley, NSW Dept of Primary Industries Karen Roberts, NSW Dept of Primary Industries Rob Griffith, Bayer Crop Science Andrew Rice, Ivey ATP (Agricultural Consultants and Chartered Accountants).

Key Points

• In 2004, late sowing and dry spring conditions had a greater effect on canola yield than any disease or insects pests • Jockey® seed treatment provided significant control of blackleg at Alectown. However, Jockey® did not increase grain yield. • No disease control benefits were recorded from Maxim® or Jockey® canola seed treatments at Wirrinya, Gunning Gap or Red Bend. • Maxim® seed treatment resulted in a significant grain yield increase in canola at Alectown. • Gaucho® and Cosmos® did not reduce earth mite damage to canola seedlings under very high populations at Red Bend. Other control measures are needed when earth mite populations are very high.______

Background varieties of low to moderate resistance The aim of these trials was to evaluate the are grown. potential for grain yield responses from controlling insects and diseases in canola Methods and Trial Design with commercially available seed applied Four trial sites were sown - Alectown, treatments. Gunning Gap, Wirrinya and Red Bend - as randomised blocks with 3 replicates. The use of seed applied insecticides such Alectown was sown into a pasture fallow as Cosmos® (fipronil) and Gaucho® 300m on the northern side of a paddock (imidacloprid) is seen as a convenient that was canola in 2003. Gunning Gap way of controlling earth mites, which are and Wirrinya were sown following wheat often present when canola seedlings are in 2003. The Red Bend site was located emerging. in the Red Bend Catholic College School farm, having been a weedy pasture for The increase in canola disease pressure as some time. The Gunning Gap, Wirrinya a result of more intensive cropping and Red Bend sites were long distances rotations in conjunction with other factors from 2003 canola stubbles. has resulted in a perceived canola yield decline over the last few years. The use The seed treatment products and rates of seed dressings such as Jockey® used in the trial are listed in Table 1. (fluquinonazole) and Maxim® Seed treatments were applied by Dovuro (fludioxonil + metalaxy-M) has the Seeds using commercial application potential to limit some of these problems, techniques. The canola varieties AG particularly blackleg, in areas where Spectrum, AG-Comet and ATR Stubby disease pressure is high and/or where were sown at 4 kg/ha. The Alectown, Gunning Gap and Wirrinya sites were

Alectown 65 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

sown using a small cone seeder. The Red The results were statistically analysed Bend site was sown by broadcast and using analysis of variance and spatial harrowed in. The Alectown and Wirrinya analysis where applicable. Detailed trials were harvested using a small plot assessments of cotyledon diseases, insect harvester. Sowing dates were Alectown - pressure and plant establishment were 1st June, Gunning Gap - 29th May, carried out 4 and 8 weeks after sowing. Wirrinya - 16th June and Red Bend - 8th Lodging and blackleg stem canker June. assessments at Alectown were done several weeks before harvest.

Table 1: Seed treatment products, rates and indicative costs at Alectown, Gunning Gap, Wirrinya and Red Bend in 2004. Active Product Name(s) Registered for Rate Indicative Cost control of L/100kg $/100kg $/ha* Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Fipronil Red legged earth miteA 0.4 $325 $13.00 Cosmos Imidacloprid Gaucho Red legged earth mite, Blue Oat mite 0.4 $200 $8.00 and AphidsB Fluquinconazole Jockey Backleg (suppression)C 2 $163 $6.52

Fludioxonil + Maxim XL Pyth/um spp, Rh/zocfon/a so/ani and 0.4 $130 $5.20 Metalaxyl-M seedling blackleg supressionD Fluquinconazole + Jockey + Cosmos See above 2+0.4 $19.52 Fipronil Fluquinconazole + Jockey + See above 2 + 0.4 $14.52 Imidacloprid Gaucho Fluquinconazole + Jockey + See above 2 + 0.4 $11.72 Fludioxonil + Maxim Metalaxyl-M Fluquinconazole + Jockey + See above 2 + 0.4 + 0.4 $19.72 Imidacloprid + Gaucho + Fludioxonil + Maxim Metalaxyl-M ABASF, 2004 BBayer Cropscience, 2004 CBayer Cropscience, 2004 DSyngenta, 2004 *assumes sowing rate of 4kg/ha

Table 2: Rainfall and water limited yield potential at canola seed treatment trials 2004.

Rainfall (mm) Water limited Location Monthly Rainfall Annual Fallow Growing season yield potentialA Nov Dec Jan Feb Ma Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov De Total (Nov - Mar) (Apr to O ct) t/ha Alectown 26 34 44 31 38 5 55 53 40 53 63 0 21 98 501 173 269 3.3 Gunning Gap 29 32 38 52 19 59 33 45 15 30 29 67 25 95 506 169 278 3.2 Wirrinya 0 14 72 66 5 6 15 63 21 25 31 54 29 95 482 157 216 2.2 Red Bend 22 68 54 73 22 26 33 58 22 32 45 34 46 123 566 239 249 3.2 Awater limited yield potential (t/ha) = ((Nov to Feb) X 30% + (Mar) X 50%)mm + (Growing season rainfall -110)mm) X 15(kg grain/mm) /1000

Results and discussion deteriorated in September, with very Seasonal conditions warm dry conditions. Good rainfall in 2004 was not a good season for canola. A late September arrived too late to be of late season break meant that all trials benefit to the canola in these trials. Table were sown outside the recommended 2 provides details of rainfall and water sowing window for canola. Growing limited yield potential (using the French conditions were favourable in June, but and Schultz model) at each of the trial

66 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

sites. Trial grain yields were poor and conjunction with the seed treatment. The well below the theoretical water limited Gaucho® label also states that control of yield potential, with yields at Wirrinya < diapause eggs the previous spring in 0.5 t/ha, and < 0.9 t/ha Alectown. The pasture fallows is import to reduce earth Gunning Gap site was not harvested, but mite numbers. Given the lack of any yields were estimated at <0.3 t/ha. The previous control techniques, and late Red Bend site was also not harvested. infestation with very high earth mite The water limited yield potential figure pressure in the Red Bend trial, the lack of assumes timely sowing, with the late significant protection offered by Gaucho® break this was not possible and canola and Cosmo® was expected. The Gaucho® was sown 4-6 weeks outside the optimum and Cosmos® treatments gave no sowing window. This means that the significant yield improvement or water limited yield potential over- emergence benefits over the nil treatment estimates the effective yield given the at the sites that were harvested: Alectown field conditions at each of the sites in and Wirrinya. 2004. Disease control Insect control The wet conditions in June and early July Variety effects promoted some disease development, Considerable earth mite insect pressure particularly at the Alectown trial. This (species not determined) was only trial site was located 300 m on the observed at Red Bend. The earth mite northern side of a paddock that had canola pressure at this site was severe. No earth in 2003. The other 3 trial sites were a long mite control practices had been distance from commercial canola crops. implemented at this site in the past. AG Comet had significantly less earth mite Varietal effects damage at Red Bend than the other two Detailed disease measurements were varieties (Table 3). AG Comet was also taken at Alectown and Wirrinya, because the most vigorous emerging variety at these were the only sites to show Red Bend, Alectown and Gunning Gap. measurable levels of disease. Low levels of downy mildew and blackleg were Seed treatment effects Neither Gaucho® present at Wirrinya. However, it had no or Cosmos® (nor any combination of effect on yield and as such this data has products) provided protection against the not been presented. high earth mite population at Red Bend. The plots were assessed approximately 6 Blackleg disease symptoms at the weeks after sowing. The fact that the nil infection levels present at Alectown were treatment was still alive at this time given easily visually observed. AG Spectrum the very high mite population suggests had significantly higher cotyledon the earth mites infested the trial several blackleg disease levels than AG Comet weeks after emergence. These products (Table 3). However, ATR Stubby had the are promoted as providing protection of highest level of blackleg stem canker. This canola seedlings under low earth mite is to be expected as ATR Stubby has the pressure (BASF, 2004; Bayer, 2004b). lowest blackleg disease rating of 6.5 The Gaucho® label (Bayer, 2004a) claims compared with AG Spectrum and AG 3-4 weeks protection after which other Comet which each have a blackleg rating control measures may be needed in of7(McRae et al.,2005).

Alectown 67 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 3: Performance of the canola varieties AG Spectrum, AG Comet and ATR Stubby in 2004. Nil seed treatment. Pooled data when no significant treatment effect.

Measurement Variety Alectown Location Wirrinya Red Bend Gunning Gap Emergence and AG Spectrum 2.9 a - 2.2 a 3.8 ab vigour scorea AG Comet 3.3 b 3.2 b 4.0 b ATR Stubby 2.8 a 2.4 ab 3.7 a Isd (P<5%) 0.1 0.3 0.3 Earth mite damage AG Spectrum - - - 4.3 b (% of leaf area) AG Comet 2.5 a ATR Stubby 4.8 b Isd (P<5%) 1.1 Cotyledon blackleg AG Spectrum 44.0 b - - - disease AG Comet 23.0 a (% of leaf area) ATR Stubby 34.0 b Isd (P<5%) 10.4 Blackleg canker AG Spectrum 3.3 a - - - (% incidence of severe AG Comet 5.8 a stem girdled) ATR Stubby 13.3 b 1sd (P<5%) 6.2 Yield (t/ha) AG Spectrum 0.78 ab 0.42 b - ~ AG Comet 0.82 b 0.44 b ATR Stubby 0.66 a 0.32 a Isd (P<5%) 0.13 0.06 Oil (%) AG Spectrum 33.1 a 40.8 a - *" AG Comet 34.9 b 43.6 b ATR Stubby 33.0 a 41.2 a Isd (P<5%) 0.4 0.5 aemergence and vigour scores 1 = poor, 5 = excellent Missing data indicates those measurements were not taken at the relevant sites Pooled data when no signifcant treatment effect

ATR Stubby yielded significantly less Individual variety data has been pooled at than AG Comet and Spectrum at Alectown to reduce the level of statistical Wirrinya, and significantly less than AG error and allow a better comparison Comet at Alectown. Oil levels were very between the seed treatments Jockey© and low. This was a common theme in Maxim®. commercial crops throughout the district. AG Comet had the highest oil levels. Jockey® was found to provide a significant reduction in cotyledon blackleg Seed treatment effects disease area (Figure 1). Maxim® had no Jockey® and Maxim® seed treatments effect on cotyledon blackleg disease area. were found to have some significant However, the combination of Jockey® + beneficial effects at Alectown. No seed Maxim® provided significant better treatment effects were recorded at control of cotyledon diseases over Wirrinya. The individual varieties at Jockey® alone. No downy mildew was Alectown showed similar response trends observed at Alectown. to the Maxim® and Jockey®, although the magnitude of response was different.

68 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 1: The effect of seed treatment on cotyledon disease area (%) of canola at Alectown 2004. Pooled data for ATR Stubby, AG Spectrum and AG Comet. Results with different letters are significantly different (P<0.05).

A similar trend was found for blackleg compared with the Nil treatment. The canker (Figure 2). However, in this case combination treatment of Jockey® + the Jockey® resulted in a significant Maxim® was not significantly different to reduction in blackleg canker compared to Jockey® alone. the Maxim treatment, but not when

Figure 2: The effect of seed treatment on blackleg canker (% incidence of severe stem girdled) of canola at Alectown 2004. Pooled data for ATR Stubby, AG Spectrum and AG Comet. Results with different letters are significantly different (P<0.05).

Alectown 69 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Jockey® resulted in significantly less The combination treatment of Jockey® + lodging at harvest than the Nil (Figure 3). Maxim® was no different than Jockey® Maxim® did not reduce lodging alone for lodging. significantly when compared to the nil.

Figure 3: The effect of seed treatment on lodging at harvest of canola at Alectown 2004. Pooled data for ATR Stubby, AG Spectrum and AG Comet. Results with different letters are significantly different (P<0.05).

A significant grain yield response to of disease that wasn't recorded in this Maxim® was recorded at Alectown for trial, and that this has resulted in a AG Spectrum (data not shown) and the significant yield increase. pooled results from all 3 varieties (Figure 4). The Maxim® + Jockey® treatment An economic analysis of the benefit from gave no significant advantage over Maxim® seed treatment indicates a Maxim® alone. Maxim® provided a benefit $10/ha to $35/ha (depending on significant yield advantage of 13% for the variety) after taking into account the AG Spectrum and 10% for the pooled product costs presented in Table 1. Under variety results. No seed treatment effects higher yielding conditions and higher were observed on grain oil. disease pressure this benefit is likely to be more substantial. The grain yield response to Maxim® instead of Jockey® is confounding. Conclusion Jockey® resulted in significantly less Canola seed treatments responses were cotyledon blackleg disease and blackleg recorded at the Alectown site in 2004. No canker than Maxim®. Jockey® also other responses from any of the seed significantly reduced lodging at harvest treatments (nor their combinations) were compared to the Nil seed treatment, while recorded at the other sites. Maxim® did not. The only benefit from Maxim® on disease control occurred The Cosmos® and Gaucho® seed when it was mixed with Jockey® where it treatments did not reduce earth mite leaf provided significantly better cotyledon damage when they were present in large blackleg disease control over Jockey® numbers at Red Bend. This reinforces the alone (Figure 1). However, this mix did need for other control treatments to be not result in any significant yield benefits used in combination with seed treatments over Maxim® alone. One explanation may be that Maxim® controlled an aspect

70 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 4: The effect of seed treatment on grain yield of canola at Alectown 2004. Pooled data for ATR Stubby, AG Spectrum and AG Comet. Results with different letters are significantly different (P<0.05). when earth mite numbers are high or Bayer CropScience. (2004a). Gaucho®. expected to be high. 600 Flowable Seed Dressing Insecticide. Product Label. Jockey® seed treatment provided significant control of cotyledon diseases Bayer CropScience. (2004b). Jockey®. and blackleg and reduced lodging at Systemic Seed Fungicide. Product Label. Alectown. Maxim© seed treatment when Syngenta. (2004). Maxim® XL. it was used in a mixture with Jockey®, Fungicide Seed Treatment. Product Label significantly reduced cotyledon diseases compared to Jockey® alone. However, McRae, F.J., McCaffery, D.W. and Maxim® and Maxim® + Jockey® Mathews, P.W. (2005). Winter Crop resulted in a significant yield increase, Variety Sowing Guide 2005. NSW DPI. not Jockey® alone. An explanation for this result maybe that Maxim® controlled Acknowledgments an aspect of disease not measured in the Special thanks to Dovuro Seeds (Justin Alectown trial, and that this was Kudnig and Jack Hart) who supplied important and resulted in a yield direct financial support to meet trial response. expenses and supplied all treated seed for this trial series. Canola fungicides can provide disease control and yield benefits in situations These trials were conducted as part of the where disease pressure is heavy and/or CWFS Regional Site program. The trial variety resistance is low or moderate. sites were supported by the Grain Growers These benefits are likely to be more Association and GRDC. Greg Gibson substantial and profitable when seasonal (NSW DPI) and Sharon Taylor (CWFS) conditions are more conducive to high provided invaluable technical assistance. disease pressure and high yield levels. The data was analysed by Helen Nicol (consulting statistician). Thanks to the trial co-operators Bill Scott, Kim and Wendy References BASF (2004). Cosmos® Insecticidal Muffett, Morris Davey and Red Bend Catholic College. Seed Treatment. Product Label.

Alectown 71 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 The Effect of Sowing Rate on the Performance of Wheat in the Forbes and Parkes Districts. Ken Motley, NSW Dept of Primary Industries, Forbes Karen Roberts, NSW Dept of Primary Industries, Parkes Andrew Rice, Ivey ATP

Key Points

• Harvest results (grain yield and quality) are more closely related to plant density than sowing rates. • Plant density can vary by over 50% for any given sowing rate. Correct sowing rate calculations that take into account seed size, germination % and expected emergence losses are needed to achieve target densities. • A target density of 120 plants/m2 is suggested as a good compromise for achieving good yield and quality in the local area.

Background further information regarding sowing Dryland wheat sowing rates in the Forbes rates for different wheat varieties and Parkes districts generally range from (Roberts, 2003; Naughton et al, 2003; 35 to 70 kg/ha. Undersown crops will Roberts, Motley and Rice, 2004). This sometimes be sown as low as 20 kg/ha. paper provides details from the 2004 Extension experience suggests that trials and conclusions from the overall fanners often do not give consideration to trial series. plant density targets when sowing cereal crops, usually referring only to sowing The use of the wheat variety H45 in these rates in their calculations and analysis of trials does imply that it is currently a crop production results. preferred variety. H45 is highly susceptible to stripe rust and as a result is Opinions vary widely between both not recommended for commercial growers and advisors on the effect of sowing. H45 was originally included in sowing rate on wheat yield and grain the trials due to its unique 'restricted' quality. Some believe that high sowing tillering characteristic compared to other rates will result in more tillers and high commercially available varieties. H45 has screenings. In contrast, others suggest continued in the trial series to ensure that higher sowing rates have higher yield consistency of results across the 4 years. potential and that high sowing rates reduce secondary tillers and will actually Methods and Trial Design reduce screenings. Varieties also differ in 3 trials were sown in 2004. These trials their ability to tiller. This has fanners consisted of 2 wheat varieties (H45 and asking should they increase their sowing Diamondbird) sown at 4 target plant rate with varieties that tiller less. densities (50, 100, 150 and 200 plants/m2). Sowing rates for each target Wheat sowing rate and plant population plant density were adjusted individually trials have been conducted in the Forbes for each variety based on seed size and and Parkes districts at the CWFS germination. The trials were arranged as a Regional Sites over the last 4 years. randomised block design with 3 Previous trials have sought to provide replicates. Plant counts were done at 6

72 Alectown Research Compendium 2004-2005

post sowing. Plots were sown small Diamondbird. Other varieties trialled in cone seeder. Plots were ed using a previous years have included Chara, small plot harvester. suits were Sunvale, Hybrid Mercury and EGA statistically analysed analysis of Wedgetail. The trials at Goonumbla in variance and spatial where 2002 and 2003 were not statistically applicable. analysed at the time of publication in the relevant years. These trials will be esigns in the previous years have analysed as part of a larger regional trial included H45 but not series.

Wheat density trial details 2004

1 Gunning Gap Wirrinya Goonumbla side early 29-May 16-Jun 9-Jun side late 11-Aug Tristar + jaguar 100kg/ha of DAP at 11-Aug Tristar + Jaguar 1-Sep Tristar all sites (18N; 20P) - 16-Dec 11 -Aug Tristar + Jaguar 17-Dec - 18-Dec (mm) 167 163 191 (Nov - Apr) 212 210 259 (May to Oct) 428 482 503 Annual nited yield potentialA 3.1 3.0 4.3 ed yield potential (t/ha) = ((Nov to Feb) X 30% + (Mar) X 50%)mm + (Growing season rainfall -110)mm) X 20(kg grain/mm) /1000

Its and discussion present at the Wirrinya and Goonumbla in 2004 trial sites in 2004. The very poor ing plant density resulted in ant performance of Diamondbird at Gunning yield increases in H45 at a, and Gap is thought to be attributed to the yield decreases in ldfoird at timing of severe dry seasonal conditions Wirrinya and H45 at g Gap (Figure in late September coinciding with crop 1). Plant density o effect on grain flowering. It is though that the quicker yield in ldbird at Gunning Gap and maturing H45 variety may have partially H45 amondbird at Goonumbla. The avoided these tough conditions at rib la data is not shown because /as flowering. no effect of plant density on 145 or Increasing plant density resulted in Diamondbird found. significant screening reductions in H45 and Diamondbird at Wirrinya (Figure 2). ielcled significantly higher than Plant density had no effect on screenings ldbird at Gunning Gap and in FI45 or Diamondbird at Gunning Gap a. However, Diamondbird or Goonumbla. H45 had significantly significantly higher than H45 at lower screenings than Diamondbird at nbla. The average yield at tibia was Gunning Gap. Screenings were less than 3.3 t/ha for Diamondbird ) t/ha for 10% at both Gunning Gap and H45. Stripe rust was Goonumbla.

Alectown 73 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 1: Plant density effects on the grain yield of H45 and Diamondbird wheat at Wirrinya and Gunning Gap 2004. Error bars indicate Isd (P<0.05).

Figure 2: Plant density effects on the grain screenings of H45 and Diamondbird wheat at Wirrinya 2004. Error bars indicate lsd (P<0.05).

Summary of results (2001-2004) 2004. These outer limit lines have been derived by doing 720 plant counting Sowing rates and plant density Figure 3 sequences. This graph indicates that represents the best (maximum density sowing rates ranging from 43 to 110 achieved line) and worst (minimum kg/ha can result in a density of 120 density achieved line) establishments plants/m2. Correspondingly a sowing rate from 2 sowing rates trials in 2001 and 3 of 43 kg/ha resulted in plant densities 2 sowing rates trials from ranging from 47 to 120 plants/m .

74 Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Clearly many factors such as seed size, calculations need to take into account germination %, soil structure, sowing these factors when targeting a certain depth and seasonal conditions influence plant population. plant establishment. Sowing rate

Figure 3: The maximum and minimum wheat plant densities achieved in relation sowing rate - Parkes / Forbes trials 2001 and 2004. Combined data for H45 and Diamondbird.

Probability of grain yield and quality number of situations did increased plant responses density increase grain screenings Almost every combination of effects on grain yield and grain screenings was Conclusion observed during the four years of wheat These trials have shown that harvest sowing rate / plant density trials in the results are more closely related to plant Forbes and Parkes districts. A summary density than sowing rates. A plant density of the probability of grain yield or of about 120 plants/m2 appears to be a screenings response to increasing plant good compromise between good yield density occurring in the overall data has potential in the better seasons, without been collated (Table 2) to help losing too much grain quality in the very understand the proportion of the different dry seasons. These trials have also responses. This summary suggests that highlighted that no one single sowing rate increasing plant density increased grain can reliably produce the desired plant yields in the wetter year of 2001. population. Sowing rate calculations need However, in the drier years the effect on to take into account seed size and quality, grain yield was less consistent. In most soil type, machinery and seasonal cases increasing plant density had no conditions. effect on screenings, and in some cases it decreased screenings. Only in a small

Alectown 75 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 2: A summary of the probability of grain yield or screening responses to increasing plant density of wheat to 250 plants/m2 (pooled cultivar results). Gunning Gap, Wirrinya and Alectown CWFS sites 2001 to 2004. Please note the data from Goomimbla in 2002 and 2003 used in this summary have not been statistically analysed. As such this summarv should onlv be used as a guide to the responses achieved in the trial series.

Yield or screenings response Probability of response Average 2001 2002 2003 2004 probability Yield response Increase yield 100% 71% 33% 17% 55% Decrease yield 0% 0% 11% 33% 9% No effect on yield 0% 29% 56% 50% 36% Screenings response Increase screenings 0% 0% 33% 0% 9% Decrease screenings 0% 7% 56% 33% 24% No effect on screenings 100% 57% 11% 67% 52% Screenings unknown 0% 36% 0% 0% 15% The effect of plant population on the yield and quality of wheat is a complex Roberts, K. (2003). Northern plant interaction, being affected by seasonal population project - Parkes. In CWFS - conditions, and variety maturity, tillering Forbes and Parkes Regional Trial Sites. ability, grain size and grain shape. The Winter Crop. Agronomy 2002 Trial trials conducted at CWFS regional site Results, pp 20-23. represent a simple analysis of this complex interaction. Roberts, K., Motley, K. and Rice, A. (2004). The effect of sowing rate on the From these trials we can assume that plant performance of wheat varieties (2003 density can increase (to less than 250 2 Gunning Gap & Goomimbla). In CWFS - plants/m ) with a small probability of a Alectown, Gunning Gap & Wirrinya detrimental effect (i.e. decreased yield or Regional Trial Sites. Winter Crop increased screenings). Agronomy 2003 Trial Results. pp 26-31.

References Acknowledgements Motley, K. and Rice, A. (2002). The The trial sites were supported by the effect of sowing rate on the performance Grain Growers Association and GRDC. of H45 & Diamondbird Wheat. CWFS Greg Gibson (NSW DPI), Sharon Taylor Research Compendium 2001-2002. pp. and Allan L’Estrange (CWFS) provided 86-89. invaluable technical assistance. The data was analysed by Helen Nicol (consulting Naughton, M., Motley, K. and Rice, A. statistician). Thanks to the 2004 trial co- (2003). The effect of sowing rate on the operators Bill Scott, Kim and Wendy performance of H45, Chara, Sunvale and Muffett, Geoff McCallum, and the co- EGA Wedgetail. In CWFS - Forbes and operators in the other years. Parkes Regional Trial Sites. Winter Crop Agronomy 2002 Trial Results. pp 15-19.

76 /Alectown CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

EUABALONG

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF EUABALONG RESULTS

• P fertiliser at 20 kg P/ha should be applied to wheat. • Field peas are the best performing pulse. • Chlorsulfuron herbicides may cause yield decreases. If so addition of P and/or Zn will not diminish the damage.

Euabalong 77 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - Z003) EUABALONG

Soil information for the broadleaf lupins 0.3 t/ha and lentils 0.2 t/ha (2001). Euabalong area Red loams are the major soil type of the • The dry conditions of 2002 produced no Euabalong area. These soils typically harvest. have a clay content of about 20-25%. In • Field peas performed well in a pulse the surface 0-10 cm, soils are typically variety trial. Average yield field peas 0.42 t/ha; lupins 0.26 t/ha and vetch acidic (pHCa 4 - 5.5), the effective cation exchange capacity (eCEC) ranges from 6 0.05 t/ha (2003). - 15 meq/100g and the phosphorus status is low to medium (Colwell P 10-25 Sulphonylurea herbicides, phosphorus, mg/kg). The organic carbon status is low zinc and wheat trials (2001-2003) (0.5 - 1.5%) which is typical of soils in • Chlorsulfuron herbicides (e.g. Glean®) low rainfall environments. were found to decrease wheat yields at some sites under some seasonal Trial Results for the Euabalong conditions. • The effect of phosphorus (P) application area on wheat yield was correlated with soil All conclusions given are from trials P levels (i.e. if soil P was low, then written up in full in the CWFS Annual there was a big yield increase to higher Research Compendiums from 1998 - applications of P. If soil P was high, 2004. For more details, please see the there was little yield increase with relevant article. The year of the trial is higher applications of P). given in brackets after the conclusion. • If soil Colwell P is less than 30 ppm (or 30 mg/kg) then 20 kg P/ha applied as • Addition of phosphorus (P) fertiliser, up fertiliser should give a yield increase to 20 kg P/ha, gave significant wheat (compared with lower P fertiliser yield increases. Average wheat yield application). 2.65 t/ha (2000). • There were no yield increases to • Returns of $3 for every $1 spent on P, applied zinc (Zn) fertiliser. applied at 20 kg P/ha, could be expected (2000). • P and Zn did not change any yield penalty suffered because of • Field peas, Morgan in particular, chlorsulfuron herbicide damage in performed well in a pulse variety trial. wheat (i.e. you can't add extra P or Zn Average yield of field peas 0.5 t/ha; to get rid of the damage) narrowleaf lupins 0.4 t/ha; vetch and

Table 1: Rainfall for the Euabalong area 1998-2004

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 71 5 4 40 15 39 81 39 106 24 41 24 489 1999 82 40 65 12 35 35 61 44 26 70 33 173 676 2000 6 51 102 19 56 13 31 43 11 62 74 2 470 2001 22 46 52 3 18 68 26 23 34 49 18 4 363 2002 2 64 20 5 24 12 10 26 44 0 3 12 222 2003 10 131 0 14 6 7 34 103 3 34 9 26 377 2004 9 15 0 30 39 39 11 29 16 40 19 66 313

78 Euabalong CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Climate Information for the rainfall over summer, with January Euabalong area receiving the most rain, and its lowest rainfall over winter and spring, with April Rainfall receiving the least rain. The rainfall for Lake Cargelligo has been recorded for 121 years, from 1884 to The average annual rainfall for the 2004. Lake Cargelligo is the closest Euabalong area is 393 mm, with a recording station to Euabalong. Using this standard deviation of 139 mm. The historical information a monthly rainfall highest annual rainfall on record was 785 record for Lake Cargelligo (the mm in 1887, whilst the lowest annual Euabalong area) can be seen in Figure 1. rainfall on record was 156 mm in 1982. The Euabalong area receives its highest

Figure 1: Rainfall at Euabalong

Monthly rainfall recorded at Euabalong (Lake Cargelligo)

Frost year out of twenty a frost can occur until Frost information for the Euabalong area the 1st October. To use this information, (Table 2) indicates that a frost can occur you would be best to sow at a time late until the 31st August one year out of five. enough so that wheat will flower after the In one year out of ten, a frost will occur as 10th September each year. late as the 18lh September and in one

Table 2: Frost data for the region (taken from the work of B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu)

Location The dates of last frost for a probability of ... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Euabalong 79 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Temperature Averages of each month's maximum and minimum daily air temperatures for the Euabalong area are shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Maximum and minimum temperature (°C) Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 18.2 18.8 15.4 10.6 7.2 3.9 2.8 4.4 6.7 10.3 13.3 16.4 Maximum 33.4 33.1 29.8 25.0 19.7 16.1 15.5 17.6 20.7 25.0 28.6 32.1 Acknowledgements and and Tim McNee), statisticians and field day speakers. Thanks • David Harbison, Hi Fert, who This work would not have been possible conducted some trials with us. without the support of all involved with CWFS - members, staff, partners and • Site Coordinator: Scott Golding sponsors. • Regional Site Co-operators: Nigel and Obbie Martin, Ian and John At the Euabalong site thanks to the Kemp. following people for their work, time, • Regional Site Chairmen. effort and support (both past and present) • Regional Site Committee members. • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda • CWFS Regional Sites' Sponsor: Stockman and Sharon Taylor Grain Growers Association • NSW DPI District Agronomists: • Euabalong Sponsors: Fyfe and Paul Lukins, John Francis and Nathan Wood, Grain Corp, NSW DPI. Border • CWFS staff who assisted with these To all who have attended Field Days, trials: James Deeves, Rob Sanderson, meetings, talks, seminars and other Allan L’Estrange and Daryl Reardon. events; thank you for your support. • NSW DPI Staff who assisted with the trials, particularly the Crop Evaluation Unit staff (Neil Durning

80 Euabalong CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Weed control options in field peas

Sharon Taylor, CWFS Key Points

• Triflur® and Roundup CT® applied pre-sowing produced the best yield and gross margin result, some other treatments were statistically similar. • All 4 rates of Diuron® produced the same yield and gross margin. • The best timing for weed control to maximize yield and gross margin is prior to sowing. hand-held spray boom, with a spraying Why do the trial? width of 2 m. The herbicide treatments The Euabalong regional site community used represent district practices for early in 2004 conducted a trial to look at the and in-crop weed control. The trial was on different weed control options for field a local farmer's property approximately 50 peas. The group eastablished a trial that km west of Condobolin on a red loam soil. aimed to compare the ability of both Diuron® at 4 different rates, which is not The trial was sown, using a cone seeder, registered for use in field peas in NSW, and managed by the Euabalong Regional and registered herbicides in controlling Site group and CWFS staff. The trial was broad-leaf weeds, particularly spiny sown with Kaspa field peas, at 98 kg/ha, emex. The trial also aimed to investigate and Trifos fertiliser, at 60 kg/ha, on the the difference of appliying herbicides pre- 15th June 2004. The different herbicide sowing, post-sowing pre-emergent and treatments, their cost ($/ha) and time of post-emergent. application are in Table 1.

How was it done? During the growing season weed counts The trial was designed as a randomized were taken on the 16th July, after replicated block. There were three Treatments 2 to 10 were applied, and on replicates with each herbicide treatment the 25th August, after Treatments 11 and present in each replicate, with the plots 30 10 were applied. The rainfall for the trial m long and 1.5 m wide. All herbicide site can be seen in Figure 1. treatments were applied using a propane

Table 1. Herbicide treatments, associated costs and time of application.

Herbicide treatments Spray Date Cost ($/ha) 1 Nil Herbicide - - 2 Triflur X @ 0.8 L/ha and Roundup CT 1.0 L/ha PS 15/6/04 $11.75 3 Diuron 500 @ 0.5 L/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $3.75 4 Diuron 500 @ 1.0 L/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $7.50 5 Diuron 500 @ 1.5 L/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $11.50 6 Diuron 500 @ 2 L/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $15.00 7 Sencor 480 (Metribuzin) @ 435 mL/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $23.92 8 Spinnaker @ 200 mL/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $27.65 9 Sencor 480 (Metribuzin) @ 435 mL/ha + Spinnaker @ 100 mL/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $37.75 10 Sencor 480 (Metribuzin) @ 435 mL/ha + Spinnaker @ 200 mL/ha PS/PE 22/6/04 $51.57 11 Diuron 500 @ 1 L/ha (PE) + Verdict 520 @ 0.075 L/ha PE 16/7/04 $26.25 12 Sencor 480 @ 435 mL/ha + Verdict 520 @ 0.075 L/ha PE 16/7/04 $46.67 Note: PS = pre-sowing, PS/PE = post-sowing, pre-emergent, PE = post-emergent

Euabalong 81 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

What happened? yielding treatments was when no The yield results from the herbicide trial herbicides were applied (Treatment 1), are shown in Figure 2. These results show whilst one of the highest yielding a significant difference (P≤0.01) between treatments was when Triflur® and the yields of each herbicide treatment. Roundup CT® (Treatment 2) were The graph shows that one of the lowest applied pre-sowing.

Note: columns with the same letter are not significantly different

The gross margin results from the highest gross margin (least negative) was herbicide trial are shown in Figure 3. when Triflur® and Roundup CT® were These results show there are significant applied, this treatment, however, was not differences (P≤0.05) between herbicide significantly different from Diuron® treatments and their gross margins. The applied at 2 L/ha (Treatment 6). On the

82 Euabalong CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 other hand the lowest gross margin was had emerged; this treatment was not when Sencor® and Verdict® (Treatment significantly different from treatments 1, 12) were applied after the field pea crop 7, 8 and 11.

Note: columns with the same letter are not significantly different

The yield and gross margin results of the herbicide application in respect to averaged over the time of herbicide both yield and gross margin. Herbicides application are shown in Table 2. These applied pre-sowing produced results show there are significant significantly higher yields and gross differences (P≤0.05) between the timing margins compared to later applications.

Table 2. Yield and gross margin results by timing of herbicide application.

Timing Yield (t/ha) Gross Margin ($/ha) Pre-sowing (PS) 0.422 b -80.8 c Post-sowing, pre-emergent (PS/PE) 0.140 a -167.6 a Post-emergent (PE) 0.233 a -132.4 b Significant Yes Yes l.s.d. 0.1555 31.49 Note: Values with the same letter are not significantly different.

The number of spiny emex plants/m2 on treatment with the lowest number of spiny the 16th July and the 25 th August for each emex is Diuron® @ 2 L/ha, followed by treatment can be seen in Table 3. This Triflur® & Roundup CT® and Diuron® table shows that the interaction between @ 1.5 L/ha. The highest number of spiny herbicide treatment and the change in emex were recorded under the nil spiny emex numbers over time is not treatment, were no herbicides were significant. However, if you average the applied. counts between dates there is a significant difference between treatments. The

Euabalong 83 CWFS Research Compendium .2004-2005

Table 3. Spiny emex plants/m2 on the L/ha had the lowest spiny erne: 16th July, 25th August 2004 and as an populations. average.

These results are interesting to farmer Treatment 16th 25th Average because they enhance very importan July August points when it comes to growing Field 1 54 60 57.0 h peas. The first is that pulses are poo 2 16 7 11.7 ab competitors against weeds with yield 3 25 24 24.7 c 4 17 22 19.5 bcde being affected to a great extent tha 5 7 19 13.0 abc cereals, therefore good weed control i 6 3 6 4.7 a essential to minimise the impact on yield 7 16 25 20.7 bcde Secondly successful pulse production 8 21 39 30.0 ef occurs when effective herbicides are used 9 22 25 23.7 cde pre-emergent to prevent high weec 10 16 15 15.7 bed pressures. Therefore it is highly 11 52 29 40.3 fg recommended that potential pulse 12 34 42 38.0 fg growers use pre-sowing or per-emergen Significant NO YES herbicide management strategies. Fo (interaction) advice please talk to your loca agronomist. l.s.d n/a 11.1

Note: values with the same letter are not Other factors significantly different The only factor to be considered, tha was not a part of the trial set-up, was th< Conclusions fact that this area in 2004 was in their 4l The main standout points in this trial year of drought. Therefore the condition.! were: were extremely tough for the trial. • The highest yield and gross margin occurred when Triflur® and Roundup ® Acknowledgements CT were applied prior to sowing. I would like to thank the farmers in th< With regard to yield, this treatment Euabalong district for their support anc was not significantly different from interest in this trial throughout the year Diuron @ 2 L/ha and the 2 On behalf of the group I would also like Sencore/Spinnaker®1 mixes, whilst to thank Allan L’Estrange and Dary with regard to gross margin it was not Reardon for their technical support. significantly different from Diuron® would also like to thank the Kemp family @ 2 L/ha. for donating land on their property to rui • The best time to apply herbicides to the trial. maximise yield and gross margin is prior to sowing. Applying the herbicides after sowing, either pre- emergent or post-emergent, caused a significant reduction in both yield and gross margin. • The change in the number of spiny emex plants over time between the herbicide treatments was not significant. However the treatment effect showed that Triflur® and Roundup CT® and Diuron® @ 1.5 & 2

84 Euabalong CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Pulse trial Sharon Taylor, CWFS

Key Points • Wheat and field peas had the highest yields and gross margins compared with lupins and vetch. • Field peas have the potential to be an alternative crop in western cropping rotations.

Why do the trial? table shows different sowing rates for the The Euabalong regional site community two field pea varieties and two lupin in 2004 conducted a trial to investigate varieties. The different sowing rates the yield and gross margins associated occur because of the variations in seed with three different pulse crops (field sizes and germination rates. These peas, lupins and vetch) compared with differences affect the sowing rate when their most commonly grown cereal crop, calculated using the following formula: wheat. The aim of the trial was to detemine how well alternative pulse sowing rate (kg/ha) = weight of 100 seeds * crops grow in the district and to calculate target plant population * 10 / establishment the associated gross margins to determine percentage. their profitability. The pre-emergent herbicides used in the trial were Triflur X® at 0.8 L/ha and How was it done? Roundup CT® at 1.2 L/ha. Rainfall As the trial was looking into three figures can be seen in Figure 1. different pulse crops, two varieties were selected to represent each crop. The field Prior to sowing the trial, soil samples pea varieties were selected based on their from 0-60 cm were taken and tested by ability to stand at maturity and their CSBP, a soil and plant testing laboratory height, whilst the lupin varieties were in Bibra Lake, WA. These soil samples selected based on their shatter resistance will be used to compare the nitrogen and disease resistance. The wheat input over the growing season and varieties selected represent the varieties summer period from the different pulse currently grown in the district. crops. Due to the dry summer the post harvest soil samples have not been taken, The trial was designed as a randomized however, soil samples from each plot replicated block. There were three will be taken when soil moisture allows. replicates with each crop/variety present in each replicate, with the plots 30 m long What happened? and 6 m wide. The trial was on a local The yield results from the pulse trial are fanner's property approximately 50 km shown in Figure 2. These results show a west of Condobolin on a red loam soil. significant difference (P≤0.01) between The trial was sown, using a cone seeder, the yields of each crop. Field peas and and managed by the Euabalong Regional wheat yielded significantly higher than Site group and CWFS staff. The trial was both lupins and vetch. There was no sown on the 15th June 2004, with the significant difference in yields between sowing rate and fertilisers used for each the varieties of each crop. crop and variety sown in Table 1. This

Euabalong 85 2004-2005 CWFS Research Compendium

Table 1. Crop, variety, sowing rate and fertiliser type and rate for the Ei regional site pulse trial. Crop Variety Sowing rate (kg/ha) Fertiliser type and rate (kg/ha) Soi Field peas Kaspa 122 Trifos @ 60 kg/ha Field peas Morgan 81 Trifos @ 60 kg/ha Lupins Ultra 161 Trifos @ 60 kg/ha Lupins Merrit 60 Trifos (5) 60 kg/ha Vetch Languedoc 35 Trifos @ 60 kg/ha Vetch Blanchefleur 35 Trifos @ 60 kg/ha Wheat Janz 35 DAP @ 80 kg/ha Wheat Sunbri 35 DAP @ 80 kg/ha * Sowing time - Optimum: preferred sowing time, Late: later then recommended, yield reductions

Figure 1. Rainfall at the Euabalong regional site pulse trial 2004

Figure 2. Grain yield (t/ha) for the Euabalong regional site pulse trial Note: columns with the same letter are not significantly different

86 Euabalong CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

The gross margin results from the pulse on a larger scale, their performance, cost trial are shown in Table 2. These results and benefit as an alternative crop. If show there are significant differences farmers do not want to commit a large (P≤0.05) between varieties and their area to field peas it is recommended that gross margins. All field pea and wheat they utilize test strips in their rotational varieties had positive gross margins that phase or that they split the paddock to be were significantly higher than the lupin rotated with the desirable alternative and vetch varieties. Ultra lupins had the crops to monitor and compare their pros lowest gross margin. and cons.

Table 2. Gross margins ($/ha) for the Other factors Euabalong regional site trial lh In 2004 this area was in their 4 year of drought. Therefore the conditions were Crop Variety Gross Margin extremely tough for the trial. ($/ha) field peas Kaspa 29.40 c field peas Morgan 48.10 c Acknowledgments lupins Ultra -138.50 a I would like to thank the members of the lupins Merrit -78.40 b Euabalong Regional Site group for their vetch Languedoc -80.30 b enthusiasm, interest and involvement in vetch Blanchefleur -77.70 b 2004. I would also like to thank Allan L’ wheat Janz 33.50 c Estrange and Daryl Reardon for their wheat Sunbri 13.10 c technical support through the year. Lastly 5% Isd between crop 44.75 I would like to thank the Kemp family for Note: values with the same letter are not donating land on their property for us to significantly different conduct the trial.

Conclusions The main points from this trial were: • Field peas had the same yield and gross margin as wheat. • Lupins and vetch had significantly lower yields and gross margins compared with wheat and field peas. • Ultra lupins had the lowest gross margin mainly due to the high cost of seed but also because of poor yields.

These results are interesting to farmers because they show that in an extremely dry year field peas can perform as well as wheat. This gives a key message to farmers and advisors that field peas have real potential to be a profitable alternative crop in western cropping rotations.

The results from this trial can be adopted by farmers in commercial practice. Due to the excellent performance of field peas, farmers could add this pulse crop into their farming rotation to investigate,

Euabalong 87

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

GUNNING GAP

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF GUNNING GAP RESULTS

• P fertiliser at 20 kg P/ha should be applied for best wheat and canola yields. • Zn fertiliser did not increase wheat yields. • Optimum wheat plant densities are 100-120 plants/m2. • Soil amelioration may not produce yield increases. • Chlorsulraron herbicides may cause yield decreases. • Addition of P and/or Zn will not diminish the damage.

Gunning Gap 89 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003) GUNNING GAP

Soil information for the • In wheat there was no response in Gunning Gap area yield to application of zinc (Zn) Soils around the Gunning Gap district fertiliser (av. yield 2.13 t/ha and vary from light sandy clay loams through 15.4% protein) (2000). to light and medium clays. The clay • P fertiliser addition increased yields content of soils can vary from 10% to of canola. 20 kg P/ha was the desired 40%. Generally the soils have an acidic rate of P application (2001). surface 0-10 cm (pHCa 4 - 5.8). The effective cation exchange capacity Agronomic Trials (eCEC) increases with clay content of • There was no difference in Albus and soil and can vary from about 6 to 18 Angustifolius lupin yields whether meq/100g. Generally the soil phosphorus they were sown mid-April, early May status is medium (Colwell P of 15 - 30 or early June. Plants appeared too mg/kg). The organic carbon status is low vegetative when sown in April (0.5 - 1.5%) which is typical of soils in (1999). low rainfall environments. • Canola sown in early May into a dry seedbed, produced lower yields than Trial Results for the Gunning that sown in mid-June into moisture. Rainbow and Oscar the highest Gap area All conclusions given are from trials yielding varieties (1999). written up in full in the CWFS Annual • Janz wheat generally out-yielded Research Compendiums from 1998 - Wollaroi (Durum wheat), although 2004. For more details, please see the Wollaroi performed well at Gunning relevant article. The year of the trial is Gap (1999). given in brackets after the conclusion. • Trials to determine the correct sowing rate for H45 (since it tillers less, it Fertiliser Trials was suggested that the sowing rate be • Nitrogen (N) fertiliser can be applied increased) showed that there was no as urea at sowing or by topdressing need to change the sowing rate. Sowing rate should be aimed at without penalty to wheat or canola 2 yield. An application of half the N at giving 100-120 plants/m after sowing and the rest topdressed gave germination for best yield results the best result - 100kg N/ha (1999). (2001). • The addition of Phosphorus (P) • Controlling a low level infection of fertiliser gave significant yield stripe rust in the highly susceptible increases in canola. Recommended P variety H45 did not provide yield or rate is 20 kg P/ha, applied without quality benefits in dry spring direct contact to the seed (1999). conditions (2003). • In canola, any N fertiliser (applied as Soil Amelioration Trials urea) is better than none. It doesn't Sodic soil amelioration (A sodic soil has matter whether the N is applied at sowing or topdressed before rain. Exchangeable Sodium Percentage of 50kg N/ha gave as good canola yields more than 6) The surface soil (0-10 cm) has pH 5.7, as 100kg N/ha. Average yield 2.88 Ca eCEC 18.3 meq/100g and exchangeable t/ha (2000).

90 Gunning Gap CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

sodium percentage (ESP) 12.8. A soil pit Year 2 no significant effect of treatments revealed the soil to be sodic to a depth of on yield of Dollarbird wheat (2001) 60 cm. Year 3 highest rate of lime gave a Treatments applied in 2000 - Lime at 2 significantly higher yield of Janz wheat t/ha, 6 t/ha and 8 t/ha, Gypsum applied at although wheat yields were low (av. 0.6 4 t/ha and Albrecht treatment (Lime at 4 t/ha) due to the dry conditions (2002) t/ha initially with trace elements added and a further 3.5 t/ha lime applied 3 years Year 4 no significant effect of treatments later). on yield of Tilga barley undersown, although yields were very low (0.2 t/ha) Year 1 no significant improvement on due to dry conditions (2003). yield of Janz wheat (2000). Year 2 all treatments better than no lime Sulphonylurea herbicides, phosphorus, or gypsum on yields of Tilga barley zinc and wheat trials (2001-2003) (2001). • Chlorsulfuron herbicides (e.g. Year 3 gypsum gave the highest yield of Glean®) were found to decrease Tilga barley although yields were low wheat yields at some sites under some (av. 0.3 t/ha) due to dry conditions seasonal conditions. (2002). • The effect of phosphorus (P) Year 4 the control (i.e. no amendment) application on wheat yield was gave highest yields of Tilga barley; again correlated with soil P levels (i.e. if soil yields were very low (av. 0.15 t/ha) due P was low, then there was a large yield to dry conditions (2003). increase to higher applications of P. If soil P was high, there was little yield Acidic soil amelioration (An acidic soil increase with higher applications of P). has pH lower than 7; A/% of more than • If soil Colwell P is less than 30 ppm 5% is where plants are adversely (or 30 mg/kg) then 20 kg P/ha applied affected) as fertiliser should give a yield This soil is a light sandy soil. Surface soil increase (compared with lower P (0-10 cm) has a pHCa 4.8, eCEC 2.07 fertiliser application). meq/100g (low because there is little clay • There were no yield increases to in the soil) and an aluminium percentage applied zinc (Zn) fertiliser. (Al%) 1.6. • P and Zn did not change any yield penalty suffered because of Treatments applied in 2000 - Lime at 1.5, chlorsulfuron herbicide damage in 3.0 and 4.5 t/ha. wheat (i.e. you can't add extra P or Zn to get rid of the damage) Year 1 no significant effect of treatments on yield of Dollarbird wheat (2000)

Table 1: Rainfall for the Gunning Gap area 1998-2004 Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 35 28 2 55 73 58 79 102 82 83 90 20 707 1999 13 0 111 26 13 28 44 48 33 111 47 128 602 2000 17 17 61 54 66 19 22 72 4 91 73 20 516 2001 0 39 57 28 45 60 67 23 26 57 41 2 445 2002 8 139 20 23 49 9 11 13 48 0 2 20 342 2003 19 40 19 14 0 17 51 70 5 31 20 31 317 2004 39 39 15 9 44 43 17 36 41 47 18 85 433

Gunning Gap 91 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Climate Information for the rainfall in summer, with January receiving the most rain, and its lowest rainfall in Gunning Gap area autumn. September is the month receiving the least amount of rain. Rainfall The rainfall for Bogan Gate has been The average annual rainfall for the recorded for 111 years, from 1894 to Gunning Gap area is 491 mm, with a 2004. Bogan Gate is the closest recording standard deviation of 159 mm. The highest station to Gunning Gap. Using this annual rainfall on record was 1,078 mm in historical information a monthly rainfall 1950, whilst the lowest annual rainfall on record for Bogan Gate (the Gunning Gap record was 150 mm in 1944. area) can be seen in Figure 1. The Gunning Gap area receives its highest

Figure 1: Rainfall at Gunning Gap

th Frost will occur as late as the 26 September and Frost information for the Gunning Gap in one year out of twenty years a frost can area is best taken from the Bogan Gate occur up until the 8lh October. To use this data as it is the closest location. This data information, you would be best to sow at a (Table 2) indicates that a frost can occur time late enough so that wheat will flower up until the 7th September one year out of after the end of September each year. five. In one year out of ten years, a frost

Table 2: Frost information for the region (from the work of B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu). Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

92 (Gunning Gap) CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Acknowledgements and Thanks • Regional Site Co-operators: This work would not have been possible O’Connell family, Tom Dwyer, Matt without the support of all involved with Dwyer, Hodges family, Judson family, CWFS - members, staff, partners and Coombs family. sponsors. • All involved with the Mulyandry site that is now closed and other such sites, At the Gunning Gap site thanks to the particularly B. Wythes, Richard Maslin following people for their work, time, and James Clifton. effort and support (both past and present) • Regional Site Chairman: Matt Dwyer • CWFS Technical Officer: Linda • Regional Site Committee members. Stockman and Sharon Taylor. • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC • NSW DPI District Agronomists: • CWFS Regional Sites’ Sponsor: Ken Motley and Mikala Naughton. Grain Growers Association • Site Coordinator: Andrew Rice. • Gunning Gap Sponsors: Parkes • David Harbison, Hi Fert, who Prescription Farming Centre (Pivot), conducted many of the fertiliser trials. PWA Grower Services, NSW DPI, • CWFS staff who assisted with these Forbes TAFE, Hi Fert, NSW Oilseeds trials: James Deeves, Rob Sanderson, Research Fund, Walkers Ag-N-Vet, Catherine Evans, Allan L’Estrange and Gunning Gap Ag Bureau. Daryl Reardon. • NSW DPI Staff who assisted with To all who have attended Field Days, the trials, particularly Trevor Russell and meetings, talks, seminars and other Greg Gibson, the Crop Evaluation Unit events; thank you for your support. staff (Neil Durning and Tim McNee), statisticians and field day speakers. • Gunning Gap Ag Bureau.

Gunning Gap 93 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Sodic Soil Amelioration using Lime and Gypsum - Five Years of Results at Gunning Gap. Ken Motley, NSW Dept of Primary Industries Andrew Rice, Ivey ATP

Key Points • The application of lime and gypsum to a sodic soil has produced improvements in soil structure observable to visitors of the trial site. • Improvement in soil structure have been associated with variable responses in grain yield and quality across years, apparently in response to varying available soil moisture over the last 5 crop years (2000 to 2004). • Yield increases with soil amelioration are associated with years where crop growing conditions were conducive to high yield and/or reasonable levels of sub soil moisture were available to the crop (years 2001 and 2002). • In contrast, barley yield declines of 40% - 80% and quality downgrades have occurred in the last two very dry years (2003 and 2004). This is thought to be due to the soil amelioration treatments promoting additional early season vegetative growth but being followed by severe spring conditions leading to the crop "haying off”. • The trial has sown no economic benefit of soil amelioration in 5 years.

Background associated economic benefits from Long-term soil amelioration trials have ameliorating soil sodicity over the long been established at the Gunning Gap term. This report details results of the CWFS Regional Site. These trials aim to past 5 years at the Gunning Gap sodic demonstrate the production and soil site.

Methods Location: Gunning Gap, 35km north west of Forbes, NSW. Co- operator: Mark Judson, "Beremana" Trial History: Lime and Gypsum Date spread: 16 May 2000 (initial treatments applied: commencement of trial) 20 March 2002 (3.5 t/ha lime on the Albrecht treatment plots) Source: Bagged agricultural lime and gypsum Sowing: 2000 2nd June, 45 kg/ha Janz, 85 kg/ha DAP 2001 17th May, 25 kg/ha Tilga, 85 kg/ha DAP 2002 29th June, 50 kg/ha Tilga, 85 kg/ha DAP 2003 19th July, 50 kg/ha Tilga, 75 kg/ha DAP 2004 25th June, 50 kg/ha Tilga, 70 kg/ha DAP

Trial Design and analysis: treatments had 4t/ha of lime applied in This trial is based on a randomised block May 2000 and then a further 3.5 t/ha of design with six treatments consisting of lime applied in March 2002 (as per the one nil treatment, four lime rates recommendations of an Albrecht soil (Albrecht treatment 2 , 6 & 8 t/ha) and laboratory). All treatments are replicated one gypsum treatment. The Albrecht twice. The co-operating farmer sowed

94 Gunning Gap CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

the plots with a direct drill combine in all fertility management. The aim is to years. The plots were harvested with a correct and raise the overall soil fertility plot header. The data has been to improve and maintain yields and/or statistically analysed using AOV or crop quality. If we have previously made spatial analysis where applicable. recommendations for the same soil location, and it has been properly The Albrecht plots are based on the identified as such, then these previous Albrecht soil management analyses and recommendations are taken recommendations from the USA. "The into account also.'" Information taken recommendations will utilize the proven from http://www.kinseyag.com/ principles of the Albrecht system of soil

Results Table 1: Rainfall at "Beremana" sodic soil amelioration trial site (2000 to 2004)

Rainfall (i mm) Water limited Location Month Annual Fallow Growing season yield potentialA Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total (Jan -Mar) (Apr to Oct) t/ha 2000 0 22 60 43 62 21 20 70 16 87 70 3 474 82 319 3.8 2001 0 41 24 54 14 53 55 19 34 47 35 1 377 65 276 2.9 2002 0 112 11 12 38 4 8 0 45 0 0 23 253 123 107 0.9 2003 0 29 18 8 2.2 21.7 47 60 7 27 24 11 255 47 173 0.9 2004 6 30 19 2 31 46 16 30 31 4 22 90 327 55 160 0.6 AWater limited yield potential (t/ha) = ((Nov to Feb) X 30% + (Mar) X 50%)mm + (Growing season rainfall -130)mm) X 15(kg grain/mm) /1000 WLYP if less than 200mm GSR = GSR - (90-(0.3 * (200-GSR)))*20 Table 2: Perry laboratoryd (USA) soil test summary of Albrecht treatment plots

a a Date / timing Depth oc pH P (Colwell) S Zn CEC Ca:Mg Na water ppm ppm ppm rneq/100g ratio % of cations cm % May 2000 before lime 0-10 1.7 6.1 44 28 2.1 26.0 0.87 10.5 May 2001 after 4t/ha lime 0-10 1.5 7.3 26 12 1.3 18.1 1.87 15.8 cSuggest optimal level 4-6 6.2 50 15-20 >8 10-20 5.7 0.5-3

amethod not described on soil test report cSuggested optimal levels from Perry soil test report

Table 3: Incitec laboratoryd soil test summary of Albrecht treatment plots

Date/timing Depth OC pH P (Colwell) S (MCP) Zn (DTPA) CEC Ca:Mg Na cm % CaCI2 ppm ppm ppm meq/100g ratio % of cations May 2000 before lime 0-10 0.9 5.7 14 11 0.3 No 18.3 0.83 12.8 0-10 No test 7.6 30 13 test No 19.7 1.76 7.9 May 2001 after 4t/ha + 3 5t/ha lime 10-20 No test 7.8 15 9.7 test 30.9 1.05 13.9 bSuggested optimal level >2 6-7 >45 >20 >1.2 _ >2 <2

bsuggested optimal levels from Incitec soil interpretation manual dthe Perry and Incitec laboratories use different methods for soil analysis of some nutrients. Therefore it is not possible to directly compare results between the two different labs for all nutrients.

Table 4: Yield data summary of sodic soil amelioration trial - 2000 to 2003 Rate & Product 2000 Wheat 2001 Barley 2002 Barley 2003 Barley Yield % of Yield % of Yield % of Yield % of t/ha (t/ha) Nil (t/ha) Nil (t/ha) Nil (t/ha) Nil nil 1.28 100 2.58 a 100 0.20 a 100 0.33 d 100 2 Lime 1.22 95 3.17 be 123 0.38 c 186 0.14b 41 Albrecht1 1.34 105 3.22 be 125 0.33 b 162 0.08 a 23 6 Lime 1.20 94 3.20 be 124 0.36 be 179 0.07 a 20 8 Lime 1.28 100 3.03 b 117 0.35 be 170 0.08 a 23 4 Gypsum 1.40 109 3.34 c 129 0.45 d 220 0.21 c 62 lsd 5% 0.45 35 0.29 11 0.03 13 0.05 15 significant2 No Yes Yes Yes 1 4 t/ha of lime applied 16th May 2000 and 3.5 t/ha lime applied 20th March 2002 (as per Albrecht recommendation). 2 Results in the same column with different letters beside them are significantly different.

Gunning Gap 95 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 5: Sodic soil amelioration trial results 2004 Rate & Product 2000 Wheat Yield %of Retention Protein Screenings t/ha (t/ha) Nil (%) (%) (%) nil 0.68 b 100 63.1c 14.6 a 13.5a 2 Lime 0.46 a 67 36.4 b 17.1 be 23.2 ab Albrecht1 0.42 a 62 13.4 a 18.2 c 34.7 be 6 Lime 0.39 a 57 12.4 a 18.7 d 38.6 c 8 Lime 0.40 a 59 12.1 a 18.4 cd 36.5 be 4 Gypsum 0.61b 90 44.8 be 16.5 b 20.0 a Isd 5% 0.11 16 22.3 1.5 13.3 significant2 Yes Yes Yes Yes 1 4 t/ha of lime applied 16lh May 2000 and 3.5 t/ha lime applied 20th March 2002 (as per Albrecht recommendation). " Results in the same column with different letters beside them are significantly different. Table 6: Economic analysis of sodic soil amelioration trial results 2000 to 2004

Product & Rate Economic Analysis Applied Totals - 2000 to 2004 (t/ha) Extra Income Lime/Gyp Costs Net Benefit ($/ha) ($/ha) ($/ha) Nil 2.0 - Lime $95 $100 -$5 Albrecht plot1 $97 $375 -$278 6.0 - Lime $73 $300 -$227 8.0 - Lime $52 $400 -$348 4.0 - Gypsum $212 $240 -$28

Net benefit = $/ha benefit above Nil treatment after taking into account extra income and costs.

Discussion The Peny Lab Albrecht interpretation Seasonal conditions (Table 2) stated that very low Ca and The rainfall and water limited yield data excess Mg were the major limiting factors, presented in Table 1 highlights the tough with a total lime deficiency of 10.8 t/ha. It seasonal conditions experience in the was recommended that lime be applied at a Gunning Gap district over the last 3 years. rate of 4 t/ha in the first year and then re- Crop yields in these years have also been tested to fine tune further lime applications. adversely affected by late sowing breaks. The lab also recommended the application Long term rainfall records indicate that the of 3 kg/ha of Zinc (Zn) sulphate. The Zn last 3 years have been amongst the driest Sulphate was not applied and no Zn on record (data not shown). deficiency symptoms appeared in the crop at any stage. Extensive Zn trials in the Soil Test Comments Forbes district have never shown a Prior to the commencement of the trial, a response to Zn fertiliser with wheat uniform bulk soil sample from the site was (Motley etal 2004). divided and sent to two separate soil laboratories for analysis: Incitec Analysis The Albrecht treatments were re-tested in Systems and Perry laboratories (USA). the second year (i.e. 2001) following the The Perry laboratory performed soil application of lime in 2000, as was analyses and provided recommendations recommended. Soil samples were again based on the Albrecht system. The Incitec sent to the Perry soil laboratory for another laboratory utilised the industry 'standard' full Albrecht analysis and interpretation. analysis procedures and interpretation The second interpretation following the techniques. 4t/ha lime application stated excessive Mg and Na, and very low Ca were still the major limiting factors, with a total lime

96 Gunning Gap CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

deficiency of 3.5t/ha. In March 2002, 3.5 t/ha encouraged better plant root and foliage of lime was added to the plots previously growth during the winter and early spring. treated with 4 t/ha lime. This made for a total Severe conditions in early spring appeared to lime application rate of 7.5 t/ha on the make the crop in these plots more susceptible Albrecht treatment plots. A fourth soil test to moisture stress and "haying off. There has was conducted in May 2003 on the Albrecht been no visual evidence of increased disease plots with top soil and subsoil samples sent to or induced nutritional problems in any of the the Incitec Pivot soil laboratory. The results lime or gypsum treatments. from this test suggested that the lime was An economic analysis of the yield responses having the desired effect of reducing associated with soil amelioration treatments exchangeable Na (i.e. sodicity) and increasing over the last 5 years indicates that none of the Ca:Mg ratio (Table 3). However, these the lime or gypsums treatments have been test results highlighted that the subsoil was profitable (Table 6). However it should be still very sodic(13.9%exch.Na). noted that, the results of the economic Yield and economic response analysis has been greatly influenced by the No significant yield or quality effect from extremely low yields achieved in 2002, 2003 soil amelioration treatments were seen in the and 2004. Low rainfall and water limited first year (Table 4). It is thought that the yield potentials have generally resulted in application of lime and gypsum in May 2000, poor profitability from crop production in the only 2 weeks before sowing, was responsible Gunning Gap area during this time. This is for the lack of response in that year, with particularly true for systems that have high treatments needing more time to react in the levels of capital expenditure on soil soil. amelioration.

The lime and gypsum treatments provided These trials will be continued in 2005. The co-operating fanner plans to sow the trial site significant yield increases in both 2001 and 2002 (Table 4). The gypsum treatment to barley undersown with lucerne. The treatments with be extensively soil tested in appeared to be the best treatment in these 2005 to investigate more closely the effects early years of the trial. The gypsum of the soil amelioration. treatment was the highest yielding in 2001 and 2002. The effects of the lime and References gypsum on the soil have been readily Motley, K., Harbison, D., Thompson, R.B., observed by visitors to the trial site. Rice, A. and Roberts, K. (2004). In 2003 and 2004 the lime treatments resulted Sulfonylurea herbicides and Zn/P fertiliser in severe yield declines, very high grain interactions in wheat in CW NSW. CWFS protein, high screenings and low retention in Research Compendium 2003-2004. pp 55- barley (Table 4 and 5). High grain protein 64. levels in excess of 19% in 2003 (data not shown) and 18% in 2004 Acknowledgements (Table 5) in the lime treated plots suggests These trials were conducted as part of the that moisture stress was severe during the CWFS Regional Site program. The trial sites grain fill period. This effect is more were supported by the Grain Growers pronounce with high rates of lime. During Association and GRDC. Greg Gibson (NSW DPI), Sharon Taylor (CWFS) and Allan this time, the soil amelioration effect of L’Estrange (CWFS) provided invaluable gypsum appears to have gradually declined, technical assistance. The data was analysed becoming more like the Nil treatment, both by Helen Nicol (consulting statistician). in terms of visual crop growth and grain Thanks go to Mark Judson (trial co-operator) yield and quality. for his cooperation over the last 5 years. Visual observations of the plots suggest that the lime and gypsum treatments Gunning Gap 97 Redenbach and Carey Chartered Accountants

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MERRIWAGGA

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF MERRIWAGGA RESULTS

• P fertiliser up to 20 kg P/ha is economic, in good years, for wheat. • Wheat sown into a cultivated seedbed gave yields higher than wheat after minimum or no tillage. • There was a wheat yield increase with applied Zn -one year of results.

Merviwagga 99 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003) MERRIWAGGA

Soil information for the of differences from 32 kg/ha to 770 kg/ha) (2001). Merriwagga area • Growing season rainfall of 88 mm; no The soils around Merriwagga are mostly harvest (2002). alkaline red earths, which are quite • There was no difference in yield under the different to the other soils of central- two tillage systems - conventional and western NSW. The alkaline red earths have minimum tillage (av. 2.68 t/ha). a neutral surface soil pH (around pH 7), Ca Observation was made that when using whereas other surface soils of central- minimum tillage, if sowing conditions are western NSW have an acidic surface soil. not ideal, you can get poor germination Clay content of the soil is from 10-30%. due to poorer seed-soil contact (2003). The effective cation exchange capacity (eCEC) of the soils is typically between 5 • Continuous wheat has Rhizoctoma levels and 15 meq/100g. The soils generally have in a higher risk category than other a low to medium phosphorus status systems using Predicta-B test results (Colwell P 10-25 mg/kg). The organic (2003). carbon status is low (0.5 - 1.5%) which is • The continuous cropping system is typical of soils in low rainfall performing well (2003). environments. Other trials Trial Results for the • Phosphoais (P) fertiliser is very important and yield increases can be obtained using

Merriwagga area up to 20 kg P/ha (2000 - a wet year). All conclusions given are from trials written up in full in the CWFS Annual • A significant yield increase in wheat (av. Research Compendiums from 1998 to 3.7 t/ha) was found when zinc (Zn) was 2004. For more details, please see the applied as Granulock 12Z at 1.2 kg Zn/ha relevant article. The year of the trial is (2000). given in brackets after the conclusion. Rainfall for each year is shown in Table 1. This result is different to that of all other CWFS Regional Sites, where Zn Rotation and Tillage Trial application had no effect on yield. It may • Wheat yields after conventional tillage be due to the neutral-alkaline pH of the were higher (average 1.79 t/ha) than surface soil. If your surface soil is acidic those after minimum tillage (av. 1.36 Zn application may not be effective. t/ha). There was no difference in yield of field peas under the two tillage systems, mainly due to weed control Climate Information for the (1999). Merriwagga area • Wheat yields after conventional tillage were higher (average 2.99 t/ha) than Rainfall those after minimum tillage (av. 2.34 The rainfall for Hillston has been recorded for t/ha). There was no difference in yield 124 years, from 1881 to 2004. Hillston is the of field peas (av. 1.35 t/ha) under the closest recording station to Merriwagga. two tillage systems, mainly due to weed Using this historical information a monthly control (2000). rainfall record for • Wheat yields after conventional tillage were higher in 3 of the 5 systems, compared with minimum tillage (range

100 Merriwagga CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 1: Merriwagga Rainfall 1998 - 2004. Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 55 15 0 91 1 27 64 22 151 38 25 3 492 1999 18 30 72 3 35 45 61 51 30 60 39 99 543 2000 4 80 87 53 79 28 19 44 11 28 64 4 501 2001 72 19 27 7 58 48 27 19 42 54 11 11 395 2002 6 43 30 9 16 8 12 9 33 0 5 2 173 2003 14 92 0 28 30 29 48 59 5 38 10 65 418 2004 6 21 0 14 14 39 14 46 8 13 40 61 276 Hillston (the Merriwagga area) can be seen The average annual rainfall for the in Figure 1. The Merriwagga area receives Merriwagga area is 370 mm, with a its highest rainfall in winter and its lowest standard deviation of 126 mm. The highest rainfall in spring. In the Merriwagga annual rainfall on record was 712 mm in district the month receiving the most 1974, whilst the lowest annual rainfall on rainfall is October, whilst the month with record was 102 mm in 1940. the least amount of rainfall is November.

Figure 1: Rainfall at Merriwagga

th Frost late as the 17 September and in one year Frost information for the Merriwagga area out of twenty years a frost can occur up is taken from Hillston data (Table 2), which until the 29th September. To use this indicates that a frost can occur up until the information, you would be best to sow at a 29th August one year out of five. In one time late enough so that wheat will flower year out of ten years, a frost will occur as after mid-September each year.

Table 2: Frost information for the region (from the work of B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu) Location The dates of last frost for a pro bability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Merriwagga 101 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Temperature Merriwagga area are shown in the Averages of each month's maximum and following table. minimum daily air temperatures for the

Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 18.0 18.3 15.5 11.0 7.6 4.5 3.7 5.2 7.2 10.5 13.6 16.2 Maximum 32.9 32.6 29.3 24.3 19.2 15.8 14.9 17.0 20.3 24.5 28.4 32.1 Acknowledgements and Thanks Higgins, Vic Harrison, John Wesley, This work would not have been possible Brian Airy without the support of all involved with • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC CWFS - members, staff, partners and • CWFS Regional Sites' Sponsor: sponsors. Grain Growers Association • Merriwagga Sponsors: Cropcare, At the Merriwagga site thanks to the Agrevo, Novartis, Nufarm, Harrison following people for their work, time, Ag Services, Rhone-Poulenc, effort and support (both past and present) Monsanto, Incitec, Pivot, Dow Agrosciences, Pioneer seeds, Bayer, • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda Davison chemicals, Dupont, Mobil, Stockman and Sharon Taylor Louston Pty. Ltd, Farmoz, • NSW DPI District Agronomists: CropFacts, Aventis, Westpac, Harvest Myles Parker and Barry Haskins Grain Australia, Syngenta, Shaddock • Regional Site Co-operators: Geoff Grading, PIBA, Cyanamid, and Ian Barber Wesfarmers Landmark, Yenda • Regional Site Chairmen: Charlie Producers, Elders VP, Rawlinson and Stuart and Lawrence Higgins Brown, NSW DPI. • Regional Site Committee members: Trevor Muirhead, Jeffrey Muirhead, To all who have attended Field Days, Lex McKenzie, Tim McKenzie, Peter meetings, talks, seminars and other events; Dart, Geoff Barber, Ian Barber, David thank you for your support.

102 Merriwagga CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Merriwagga CWFS Site Results 1999-2004 Barry Haskins, NSW DPI Lawrence Higgins, CWFS Regional Site Chairman Sharon Taylor, CWFS

Key points • Long term gross margin data shows conventional tillage to be more profitable than minimum tillage. • Long term gross margin data also shows that continuous wheat and rotation l are the most profitable rotations. • No tillage into a long fallow situation is significantly less profitable than conventional tillage, by $147.oo/ha. This is not the case with no tillage into a stubble situation which is not significantly different to conventional tillage. • A major factor determining the profitability of the no tillage treatment is effective weed control. • The threat of root diseases, such as Rhizoctonia, is now at a high risk level in the continuous wheat rotation, particularly under no tillage, whereas the risk is minimal in other rotations. ______

Background and aims and Rotation 2). They both involve A long term fanning systems trial was continuous cropping by rotating crops. established in 1999 aiming to investigate When the trial began, this system was not the sustainability and profitability of common practice. It was designed to see if cropping rotations and tillage methods on it could be done economically in this Merriwagga soils. The paddock chosen environment. Since 1999, the beginning has had a long history of traditional low of the trial, more growers have been using input cropping. Soils are alkaline red break crops. Generally in this system, a earths (pH 7.2 CaCl2), with a layer of break crop is grown every second year limestone within 60 cm of the topsoil. after wheat. The choice of the break crop Average annual rainfall is about 370 mm. is mainly determined by the time of break and disease risks. The trial is situated on Geoff and Ian 2. Continuous Wheat: This treatment is Barber's property "Sylvanham" on the not common in the area, however growers comer of Black Stump Rd and Greenhills wanted to see what happens if wheat was Rd, approximately 10 km SW of grown over a long period of time. Merriwagga. The Barber's have allowed 3. Wheat/Ley/Fallow/Wheat (W/L/F/W): the Merriwagga CWFS group to share- This system has traditionally been farm the trial site, allowing other trial practiced, however is declining as stock work to be conducted around the core site. numbers reduce. After harvest the The trial is designed so that all operations paddock is left as a ley, where naturalised are conducted using growers' equipment to grasses and legumes emerge. The make it realistic. The trial has been set up paddock is grazed until it is brought into with 3 replications of all treatments, fallow the following year. Cropping totalling 30 ha in area. occurs every third year in this system. As of 2005, we will replace the ley with Rotation treatments 1. Continuous rotation cropping: There are 2 versions of this system (Rotation 1

Merriwagga 103 2004-2005 CWFS Research Compendium

common tillage practices of the district barley, to make it more relevant for local growers. when the trial began. 4. Wheat/Fallow/Wheat (W/F/W): This is also a traditional cropping system still Trial Plan practiced by some growers. The paddock Table 1 shows the cropping history of the is cropped every second year and long-term trial, whilst Table 2 shows the fallowed in between aiming to conserve split plot randomised complete block soil moisture, mineralise nitrogen and design, with 3 replicates, used in the trial. break disease cycles. (See Table 1 for further information) Results from 2004 2004 was again a very tough year in the Tillage treatments Merriwagga region. The first rainfall Each system treatment is divided into two event that sparked sowing occurred at the tillage treatments. end of May, so all sowing operations were 1. Minimum tillage: This treatment quite late. This made pre-sowing weed involves sowing with narrow points into control difficult and also wrote off the an unprepared seedbed. Weed control is chance of growing either lupins or canola by herbicides and in some cases burning. as a break crop. We were left with the To the extent of which it is practical, the choice of either peas or barley, so we went plots are not tilled in any way. Due to with barley aiming to minimise disease machinery limitations, nitrogen may be risks because of the previous pea history predrilled prior to sowing using narrow in the paddock. Little to no subsoil points, harrowing may occasionally be moisture was evident at sowing, however practiced to remove excess stubble or this proved not to be the case for the weed residues that may hinder sowing. fallowed systems. The sowing details are 2. Conventional tillage: This system provided in Table 3. uses conventional tillage fallows and tillage to prepare the seedbed and remove The total rainfall for the year was just and/or incorporate stubbles. Herbicides 241mm, with only 121mm falling in the are still used in this system, however growing season (Apr-Oct). cultivation is the primary method of weed control. This treatment aims to emulate

Table 1. Cropping history for Merriwagga, 1999-2005. Farming System Cropping Timetable Treatments 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Wheat/Fallow/Wheat Fallow Wheat Fallow Wheat Fallow Wheat Fallow Rotation 1 Peas Wheat Canola Wheat Wheat* Barley Peas Continuous Wheat Wheat Wheat Wheat Wheat Wheat Wheat Wheat Wheat/Lev/Fallow/Wheat Ley Fallow Wheat Ley Fallow Wheat Barley* Rotation 2 Wheat Peas Wheat Peas Peas* Wheat Barlev *Note change of cropping sequence as a result of failed crops in 2002, and changes to district practice.

104 Merriwagga CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 2. Split plot randomised complete block with 3 replicates Plot Treatment Tillage 31 wheat/ley /fallow /wheat conventional 30 wheat/ley /fallow/wheat no till 29 rotational continuous 1 conventional 28 rotational continuous 1 no till 27 rotational continuous 2 conventional 26 rotational continuous 2 no till 25 wheat/fallow/wheat conventional 24 wheat/fallow/wheat no till 23 continuous wheat no till 22 continuous wheat conventional 21 wheat/ley /fallow /wheat conventional 20 wheat/ley /fallow /wheat no till 19 wheat/fallow/wheat conventional 18 wheat/fallow/wheat no till 17 rotational continuous 1 no till 16 rotational continuous 1 conventional 15 rotational continuous 2 conventional 14 rotational continuous 2 no till 13 tree plot 12 continuous wheat conventional 11 continuous wheat no till 10 rotational continuous 2 conventional 9 rotational continuous 2 no till 8 wheat/fallow/wheat conventional 7 wheat/fallow/wheat no till 6 rotational continuous 1 no till 5 rotational continuous 1 conventional 4 continuous wheat conventional 3 continuous wheat no till 2 wheat/ley /fallow /wheat no till 1 wheat/ley /fallow /wheat conventional

Table 3. 2004 sowing details for the Merriwagga regional site. All plots were sown with Flexi coil airseeder using knife points.

Crop Variety Sowing Fertiliser Sowing Average Rate Date Yield Barley Baudin 25 kg/ha 65kg/ha Maximize® 10th June 0.74 t/ha Wheat Drysdale 40 kg/ha 80kg/ha Maximize® 10lhJune 0.79 t/ha Yield and Gross Margin - 2004 treatments. This is probably due to some The yield and gross margin results for the moisture being stored and held from the Merriwagga trial (Figures 1 & 2) show previous season. An observation was significant differences between the made that weed control using herbicides system treatments and tillage treatments. in the minimum tillage fallows proved The main points from these figures are: ineffective. This would have led to stored 1. The W/F/W and W/L/F/W rotations moisture being used by the weeds. 2. In with conventional tillage had wheat rotation 1 the highest barley yields were yields (Figure 1), and subsequent achieved in the conventional gross margins (Figure 2), significantly higher than all other

Merriwagga 105 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

tillage treatment These are significantly wheat). This was not the case in no higher than the no tillage treatment. 3. In tillage treatments. It is thought that comparing rotation 2 and continuous this was because weeds such as wheat, in conventional tillage, it can be common heliotrope were not seen that wheat following field peas controlled early in the minimum (rotation 2) yielded significantly higher, tillage system resulting in water use by 35%, than wheat after wheat by weeds and lower yields in the 2004 (continuous wheat crops.

Figure 1. Merriwagga CWFS yield results 2004

Note: For wheat, columns with the same letter are not significantly different. For barley, columns with different roman numerals are significantly different.

Figure 2. Merriwagga gross margin analysis 2004 Note: columns with the same letter are not significantly different. All costs involved in the gross margin budget are at contract rates, which decreases the returns from what you would expect using your own gear.

106 Merriwagga CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Having a look at tillage Results Summary 1999-2004 comparisons Since the beginning of the trial in 1999, A look at tillage differences over the first and 6 crops, only 2 of the 6 years have had 4 years (1999-2002) and then the last two average or better growing season rainfall. years (2003-2004) of the trial show This has made obtaining good results interesting profit trends (Tables 4 & 5). difficult, however it has still allowed a general trend to emerge. In the continuous wheat system (Table 4), conventional tillage is more profitable Rotation summary then no tillage in the first 4 years. In the Continuous wheat and rotation 1 are the last 2 years, however, the profit most profitable cropping sequences over differences have become not significant. the past 6 years (Table 6). As diseases and This is due to their similar wheat yield weeds impact on the continuous wheat (Figure 1). It will be interesting to see rotation, the advantages of adding a how these profits change in the future. broadleaf crop into the rotation is expected to strengthen further. In the W/F/W system (Table 5), conventional tillage is again more In the W/F/W and W/L/F/W rotations it is profitable in the first 4 years, however, it thought that the risk of growing a crop is also more profitable in the last two after fallow is lesser than after a crop as in years. This result may have occurred a continuous cropping system. The because of weed control issues in the greatest issue with these rotations is the fallow phase of the no tillage system fact that only one crop is harvested every leading to lower yields. In dry years weed two (or three) years, which is limiting the control with herbicides has proved to be rotations' current income. For these less effective than cultivation and rotations to be more economic, a tighter subsequently yield losses due to weeds cropping sequence would be necessary. have been significant. Again, it will be interesting to see what happens in this The long-term gross margins (Table 6) situation when conditions improve. also show that Rotation 1 & 2 are significantly different to each other, with Table 4. Tillage differences in the rotation 1 more profitable. The difference continuous wheat system in these two rotations exists because of the Continuous 1999-2002 2003-2004 choice of crop grown in both 2000 and Wheat 2003. In both years rotation 1 had wheat Conventional $292 .00 b $ 187.80 crops with higher profits than rotation 2 that had field pea crops. No Tillage $146.00 a $ 215.70 Significant Yes No Table 6. Long-term gross margin for the

I.s.d 66.8 rotation treatments.

Table 5. Tillage differences in the Rotation Gross Margin W/F/W system. ($/ha)

W/F/W 1999-2002 2003-2004 Continuous wheat $421.00 c Conventional $134.00 b $ 39.00 b W/F/W $41.00 b No Tillage $ 16.00 a $-108.00 a W/L/F/W -$44.00 a Rotation 1 $393.00 c Significant Yes Yes Rotation 2 $44.00 b Is.d 93.6 62.1 Significant YES l.s.d 69.4

Merriwagga 107 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Tillage summary wheat with conventional tillage (Figure A gross margin difference between no 3). This system has a gross margin tillage and conventional tillage still exists significantly higher than all other in the trial (Table 7). After six years the systems, except for rotation 1 with conventional tillage treatment has a conventional tillage. On the other hand, significantly higher gross margin than the the least profitable rotation and tillage no tillage treatment. system is W/L/F/W with no tillage, which is not significantly different from W/F/W Table 7. Long-term gross margins for with no tillage. the tillage treatments Rotation Gross Margin ($/ha) The advantages of no tillage are Conventional $248.00 b beginning to show, but only in rotation 1, No tillage $94.00 a where the conventional and no tillage Significant YES treatments are statistically the same. No other rotations have the tillage treatments l.s.d 43.9 statistically the same. Rotation and tillage summary The most profitable rotation and tillage system over the past 6 years is continuous

Note: columns with the same letter are not significantly different.

Disease summary We have found that more than two years As a core part of the trial we have aimed of cereal crops in sequence result in a to measure the potential risk of yield high risk level of Rhizoctonia in the losses through root diseases. We have following year. By adding a break crop done this by measuring a number of root such as peas, or even a fallow, we can diseases using the Predicta B® root reduce the risk of the disease. We have disease tests. This test quantifies a also found that cultivation reduces the number of root diseases present in a soil risk of yield loss attributable by sample, however the main disease we are Rhizoctonia in a manner similar to adding concerned about is Rhizoctonia root rot. a break crop. When both a break crop and cultivation are added, Rhizoctonia levels are below detection.

108 Merriwagga CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Note: Only systems going into crop are measured for root disease risks.

Conclusions The success of no tillage is largely The trial has now given some very good dependent upon effective weed control results that can be used and relied upon during the summer months. If this cannot by growers to undertake beneficial be achieved with herbicides, then change. cultivation is essential to maintain yield in the following crop. By rotating cereals with a broadleaf crop we have shown that the cropping rotation Acknowledgements and has become more sustainable. After 6 Thanks years the difference in the profitability A huge thankyou to the Barber family, the between rotation 1 and continuous wheat dedicated committee, and the local site is negligible. sponsors who donate time, money and products that have allowed this trial to If the long fallow system was tightened progress into what we have today. (W/F/W) so that there were more crops grown and less fallows, this system too NSW DPI, Elders, Rawlinson and Brown, could also be an alternative to growing Landmark Griffith, Yenda Producers, broadleaf crops. Agrichem, AWB, Bayer, C-Qentec, Case Intersales, CropCare, Codemo Machinery, The trial has also shown that conventional Commonwealth Bank, ECOM tillage is more profitable then no tillage Commodities, Dow AgroSciences, over the past 6 years. The difference Dupont, Farmoz, Harrison Spray between these two tillage methods may Contracting, Harry Shaddock Seed become insignificant as the trial continues Grading, HiFert, Incitec/Pivot, Mobil, in the future. Nufarm, RABO Bank, Pioneer, Syngenta.

Editor's Note In March 2005, the Merriwagga Regional Site won a Special Award in the GRDC Grower Group Awards. Congratulations to all involved in the Merriwagga Regional Site.

Merriwagga 109

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

NYNGAN

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF NYNGAN RESULTS

• P fertiliser at 25 kg P/ha is economic in good years. • After drought P application can be reduced but it must still be applied. • Early sowing (late April) is important for good yields. • Wheat sown at 35 kg/ha can yield as well as at higher sowing rates. • Pulses (especially field peas and Albus lupins) are economic. • Wheat grown after pulses or canola performs well, with either increased protein or yield, compared with wheat after cereal.

Nyngan 111 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003) NYNGAN

Soil information for the application for any yield or protein increase (2001). Nyngan area Soils of the Nyngan area are typically red • Higher yields were found when clay loams, red sandy loams and red increasing amounts of fertiliser were earths (red soils) in the dryland farming applied (up to 150 kg/ha DAP-S). country. Along creeks and rivers, the Trials have shown it is economic to heavier clay soils are found - light, use up to 25 kg P/ha on soils with medium and the occasional heavy clay medium P status and good subsoil soils. The clay soils are usually brown, moisture (2001). black or grey. • After a drought, you can afford to reduce the P fertiliser addition (to as The red soils are generally acidic in the low as 5 kg P/ha) but yields decrease surface with a 0-10 cm pHca ranging from when no new P is applied (2003). 4.5-6. The effective cation exchange • When season is poor and yields are capacity (eCEC) for the red soils is about low (0.5 t/ha), there is no effect on 7-15 meq/100g. The red soils typically yield of addition of N and P fertiliser have low to medium phosphorus status (2003). (Colwell P 10-25 mg/kg). The organic carbon status is low (0.5-1.5%) which is Agronomic Trials typical of soils in low rainfall • Late April sowing of pulses, showed environments. that Albus lupins (var. Ultra) with average yield of 2.05 t/ha out-yielded The clay soils along watercourses tend to other pulses (faba beans, vetch and have more clay in them than the red soils, lupins). With sowing in late May field so have a higher eCEC (20-45 meq/100g peas (av. 1.75 t/ha) out-yielded lentils but can be up to 80 for heavy clays), a and chickpeas (av. 0.75 t/ha) (1999). more neutral to alkaline surface soil pH • Late May sowing of canola varieties (pHca 6-8). Phosphorus status is usually decreased yield and oil content medium to high (Colwell P 20-40 mg/kg) compared with late April sowing. and the organic carbon may be a bit Oscar was the highest yielding early higher than in red soils (1.5-3%). sown canola variety (1999). • The yield of wheat grown after a Trial Results for the Nyngan canola crop (Sunvale wheat av. 2.03 area t/ha) was higher than that after a pulse All conclusions given are from trials crop (Sunvale wheat av. 1.68 t/ha) but written up in full in the CWFS Annual protein was higher after pulses Research Compendiums from 1998 - (15.2%) compared with after canola 2004. For more details, please see the (14%) (2000). relevant article. The year of the trial is • The district average wheat sowing given in brackets after the conclusion. rate (35 kg/ha) was found to be Rainfall is shown in Table 1. suitable as there were no yield, protein or screening differences with Fertiliser Trials higher sowing rates (up to 105 kg/ha) • Topdressing with nitrogen (N) (2001). fertiliser, as urea, needs rain after

112 Nyngan CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

• Hail in October ruined canola (not Wheat variety trials harvested) and damaged field peas • There was no difference in yield (average 1.37 t/ha) but did not affect between Sunbrook, Cunningham, the yield of Albus lupins (av. 1.8 t/ha) Sunvale, Sunstate and Sunmist. or Angustifolius lupins (av. 1.2 t/ha) Sunkota was affected by Yellow Leaf (2001). Spot and had lower yields (2001). • Field peas (av. 0.68 t/ha) yielded significantly higher than lupins (best 0.44 t/ha) or vetch (2003).

Table 1: Nyngan Rainfall 1998 - 2004.

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 101 78 4 100 11 34 121 91 87 25 38 7 697 1999 68 32 45 68 8 28 32 39 55 55 121 197 748 2000 24 34 146 86 98 11 22 20 8 61 203 27 740 2001 14 12 97 10 7 36 58 8 13 32 27 12 326 2002 19 107 49 11 14 10 1 1 48 6 10 9 285 2003 42 58 30 75 10 28 25 90 6 45 34 42 485 2004 52 18 10 16 36 29 29 25 18 10 21 81 345 Climate Information for the lowest annual rainfall on record was 169 Nyngan area mm in 1965.

Rainfall Frost The rainfall for Nyngan has been recorded Frost information for the Nyngan indicates that a frost can occur up until the for 123 years, from 1882 to 2004. Using th this historical information a monthly 25 August one year out of five. In one year out of ten years, a frost will occur as rainfall record for Nyngan can be seen in th Figure 1. Nyngan receives its highest late as the 12 September and in one year out of twenty years a frost can occur up rainfall in summer, with January receiving rd the most rainfall, and its least amount of until the 23 September. To use this rain in winter. September is the month information, you would be best to sow at a receiving the least amount of rain. time late enough so that wheat will flower after mid September each year (Table 2). The average annual rainfall for Nyngan is 444 mm, with a standard deviation of 172 Temperature mm. The highest annual rainfall on Averages of each month's maximum and record was 1,126 mm in 1950, whilst the minimum daily air temperatures for the Nyngan area are shown in Table 3.

Figure 1: Rainfall at Nyngan

N y n g a n

1 1 Nyngan 113 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 2: Frost information for the region (taken from B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu). Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Table 3: Maximum and minimum temperatures (°C)

Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 19.6 19.3 16.6 12.2 8.1 5.1 3.7 5.0 7.8 11.8 14.9 17.8 Maximum 34.1 33.4 30.6 25.9 20.8 17.5 16.6 18.4 22.3 26.5 30.0 32.9

Acknowledgements and • Regional Site Co-operator: Will Thanks Carter and family. This work would not have been possible • Regional Site Chairman: Kent without the support of all involved with Johnston. CWFS - members, staff, partners and • Regional Site Committee members sponsors. • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC. • CWFS Regional Sites' Sponsor: At the Nyngan site thanks to the Grain Growers Association. following people for their work, time, • Nyngan Sponsors: Grain Corp, NSW effort and support (both past and present) DPI.

• CWFS Technical Officers: Linda To all who have attended Field Days, Stockman and Sharon Taylor. meetings, talks, seminars and other • NSW DPI District Agronomist: events; thank you for your support. Greg Brooke. • NSW DPI staff, particularly Tom Fitzgerald, the Crop Evaluation Unit staff (Stuart Druce and Tim McNee), Jim Presley, statisticians and field day speakers. • CWFS staff who have assisted with these trials: James Deeves, Rob Sanderson, Allan L’Estrange and Daryl Reardon. • Other parties: Ray Piatt (CWCFA), Landcare coordinators, Malcolm Giles.

114 Nyngan CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Wheat: Susceptibility of varieties to common root rot.

Sharon Taylor and Catherine Evans, CWFS.

Key Messages • Common root rot (CRR) is a fungal disease that has the potential to reduce susceptible wheat, barley and oat yields • Moderately resistant CRR varieties, such as Strzelecki and Sunstate, did not suffer grain yield or grain quality losses due to CRR • Drysdale, Combat and Hunter showed moderate resistance to CRR, although as yet they have no disease rating

Why do the trial? their susceptibility to CRR, with The aim of this trial was to evaluate the moderately resistant varieties unlikely to susceptibility of new wheat varieties, suffer yield loss. which currently have insufficient trial data to provide a disease score, to CRR Due to the different levels of CRR in the compared with varieties with known two blocks the same varieties were sown disease ratings. in each block to determine each variety's susceptibility or resistance to the disease. How was it done? The varieties used and their disease scores The trial site was established on a for CRR (1 = susceptible, 9 = resistant) property 12 km west of Nyngan, NSW. were Strzelecki (7), Sunstate (6), The trial site consisted of two blocks, Drysdale (?), Combat (?) and Hunter (?). All varieties were sown at 35 kg/ha on the Block A and Block B. Prior to sowing, lh both blocks were tested for diseases 26 June 2004 with 100 kg/ha DAP levels, which showed that Block A had a fertiliser (district rates). The only low level of CRR whilst Block B had a measurements taken for this trial were high level of CRR. CRR is caused by a grain yield and grain quality. fungus, Bipolaris sorokiniana, which causes browning of the roots, particularly What happened? on the sub-crown intenode, in wheat, Results are shown in Table 1. barley and oats. Cereal varieties vary in

Table 1: Grain yield and grain quality results from the CRR trial at Nyngan, NSW.

Variety Yield Yield Protein Protein Test Test (t/ha) (t/ha) (%) (%) Weight Weight Block A Block B Block A Block B Block A Block B Combat 0.68 0.52 16.85 17.32 74.67 74.67 Drysdale 0.54 0.37 16.92 17.40 75.33 75.50 Hunter 0.62 0.41 15.82 16.78 73.17 74.33 Strzelecki 0.73 0.40 16.40 17.47 74.50 72.50 Sunstate 0.63 0.43 17.07 17.50 76.83 76.32 Significance (variety*block) NO NO NO

Nyngan 115 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

What does this mean? break crops are included in the rotation, The grain yield and grain quality results such as pulses, oilseeds or pasture in Table 1 show that the yield, protein legumes. Host grass weeds should also be and test weight of each variety does not controlled. significantly differ from Block A to Block B. The two varieties with known Acknowledgements disease scores, Strzelecki (7) and Sunstate These trials are part of the CWFS (6), have confirmed in this trial that they Nyngan regional sites. The trials are are moderately resistant to CRR as no sponsored by the Grain Growers significant yield, protein or test weight Association and GRDC. Greg Brooke losses have occurred due to CRR in was the NSW DPI Nyngan District Block B. The three varieties without any Agronomist who managed the trial. Tom disease scores, Drysdale, Combat and Fitzgerald provided technical assistance. Hunter, have shown that they could also Thanks to the cooperating fanner Will be moderately resistant to CRR as their Carter. yield, protein and test weight have stayed the same across Blocks A and B. Rainfall 2004 Although this trial has found that Av. Annual Total: 444 mm Drysdale, Combat and Hunter can Av. Growing Season: 192 mm maintain their grain yield and quality in Actual annual total: 258 mm the presence of CRR it is not being Actual growing season: 111 mm recommended by CWFS that farmers sow Plot size these varieties in known CRR paddocks, 1.8 m x 30 m as disease scores have not been published Other factors for these varieties. In a paddock with The major yield limiting factor for 2004 known CRR problems it is recommended was drought. that resistant wheat varieties are sown, such as Strzelecki and Sunstate, or that

116 Nyngan CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

RANKINS

SPRINGS

REGIONAL SITE

Rankins Springs 117 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - ZO03) RANKINS SPRINGS

Soil information for the Merriwagga where, in 1 year of trials, Zn Rankins Springs area was found to increase wheat yield. It is The soils are generally red sandy loams possible that Zn deficiency is associated that have a clay content of about 20-25%. with the neutral-alkaline surface soils of The surface soil is generally acidic with an Merriwagga. So if this applies to your soil alkaline subsoil. The surface 0-10 cm has a (e.g. 0-10 cm soil pHa, 7 - 8), you may also find yield increases from the pHCa ranging from 4 to 5.5. The effective cation exchange capacity (eCEC) is about application of Zn. For those with an 8-18 meq/100g. The phosphorus status of acidic surface soil (pHca 4-6) it is unlikely the soil is usually low to medium (Colwell that you will have yield increases from Zn P 8 - 20 mg/kg). The organic carbon status application. is low (0.5 -1.5%) which is typical of soils in low rainfall environments. Alternate Farming Systems Trial This trial compares 7 different systems - Trial Results for the Rankins conventional, Albrecht, Soil Management Riverina, Alroc Mineral Fertilisers, Nutri- Springs area Tech Solution, BioAg and Organic. All conclusions given are from trials written up in full in the CWFS Annual Year 1: No difference between wheat Research Compendiums from 1998 -2004. yields of the systems (av. yield For more details, please see the relevant from 1.62-1.88 t/ha). (2000). article. The year of the trial is given in Year 2: Lupins sown. Yield between 0.2 brackets after the conclusion. t/ha and 0.43 t/ha. There was quite a dry finish to the season. Fertiliser Trials The best yielding crop coming • There was no increase in wheat yield from the conventional system (average 4.78 t/ha) with any (2001). application of applied Zinc (Zn), Year 3: Very dry season resulted in no therefore Zn deficiency is not a harvest (2002). problem in these soils. (1999). Year 4: Very dry season crops were not sown - effectively a fallow This result has been found at almost all of (2003). the CWFS Regional Sites, except

Table 1; Rainfall for Rankins Springs 1998-2004. Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 33 20 0 44 17 44 62 76 98 37 31 1 463 1999 48 70 74 27 52 38 60 32 3 91 26 91 612 2000 3 49 47 52 84 30 30 60 21 61 155 12 604 2001 16 41 39 13 14 41 28 26 39 50 16 2 325 2002 1 16 5 42 24 19 12 2 49 0 6 3 179 2003 14 106 4 17 11 28 54 68 13 37 21 53 426 2004 10 12 0 11 25 11 22 33 14 9 24 16 187

118 Rankins Springs CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Climate Information for the winter, with June receiving the most rain, Rankins Springs area and its lowest rainfall in summer, with February receiving the least rain. Rainfall The rainfall for Rankins Springs has been The average annual rainfall for Rankins recorded for 118 years, from 1887 to Springs is 438 mm, with a standard 2004. Using this historical information a deviation of 140 mm. The highest annual monthly rainfall record for Rankins rainfall on record was 899 mm in 1956, Springs can be seen in Figure 1. Rankins whilst the lowest annual rainfall on Springs receives its highest rainfall in record was 159 mm in 1982.

Figure 1: Average monthly rainfall for Rankins Springs

Frost September and in one year out of twenty Frost information for the Rankins Springs years a frost can occur up until the 10th area (Table 2) indicates that a frost can October. To use this information, you occur up until the 8th September one year would be best to sow at a time late out of five. In one year out of ten years, a enough so that wheat will flower after the thl frost will occur as late as the 27 end of September each year.

Table 2: Frost information for the region (taken from B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu) Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Rankins Springs 119 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Temperature Rankins Springs area are shown in Table Averages of each month's maximum and 3. minimum daily air temperatures for the

Table 3: Maximum and minimum temperatures (°C)

Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 17.7 17.8 14.9 10.8 7.4 3.9 2.7 3.9 6.0 9.3 12.6 15.8 Maximum 32.9 32.6 29.3 24.1 19.4 15.4 14.6 16.5 19.6 23.9 28.1 31.8 Acknowledgements and Ryan, Rod Guest, Robert Groat, Jock Thanks Munroe, Scott Vaessen, David Heath, This work would not have been possible Andy Ryan, Brace Black. without the support of all involved with • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC CWFS - members, staff, partners and • CWFS Regional Sites' Sponsor: sponsors. Grain Growers Association • Rankins Springs Sponsors: Yenda At the Rankins Springs site thanks to the Producers, Incitec, Cropcare, Aventis, following people for their work, time, Dow elanco, BASF, Monsanto, effort and support (both past and present) Nufarm, Yenda Fruit and Case Supplies, F & R McNabb Pty. Ltd., • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda Pivot, NAB, SGB, Auswest seeds, Hi Stockman and Sharon Taylor Fert, One Steel, Bayer Crop Sciences, • NSW DPI District Agronomist: Wesfarmers Landmark, Pioneer Rachael Whitworth Seeds, Pacific Seeds, Hart Bros. • Regional Site Co-operators: Bartter Seeds, Syngenta, PIBA, Dow family and Mark Dwyer Agrosciences, Elders VP, Rawlinson • Tony Matchett and Trevor Bray, and Brown, NSW DPI. Yenda Producers, and Yash Dang, To all who have attended Field Days, Incitec, for trials they conducted with meetings, talks, seminars and other us. events; thank you for your support. • Regional Site Chairman: Michael Pfitzner • Regional Site Committee members: Nick Eckerman, Mark Dwyer, Mat

120 Rankins Springs CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Rankins Springs CWFS Alternate Farming Systems Trial

Rachael Whitworth, NSW Agriculture, Griffith Michael Pfitzner, Chairman - Griffith

Key Points

• In 2004 the organic system had the lowest wheat yield and the highest screenings. • The 2004 gross margin showed that the Albrecht, Soil Management Riverina and BioAg systems made a small profit. • The Conventional, Soil Management Riverina and Organic systems have the best long-term (2000-2004) average gross margins, although they are all negative.

Background and aims of the design. Plot size has been designed to suit trial sowing and harvesting gear. The Rankins Springs CWFS site was Each system varies in the type and established in 2000 with a view to amount of inputs they provide including examine the long term environmental, fertiliser, soil ameliorants, seeding rates, biological and economical effects of seed dressings and herbicides to name a alternate production systems. The idea of few. Participating systems include: the trial came about as local growers have 1) Conventional: This system is based long been interested in the various on local fanning practices in the Rankins alternative products on the market and Springs area. It is based on decisions wanted to get a better idea of what was fanners in the district would normally available, the strengths and weaknesses make when growing their own crops. of each system and what works best This includes decisions on fertilisers, under local conditions. chemicals, tillage practices and overall The site is located opposite the gates of crop management, with an overlying "Wattle Park", down Anderson's Lane, emphasis on the economics of each off the main Rankins Springs road. The operation. soil type of the site is a red clay loam 2) Albrecht: This system focus on with a pH of 4.9, organic carbon 1.3%, achieving a balance of nutrients in the CEC 12.32 meq/100g and a Ca:Mg ratio soil. The system is based on laboratory of 3.04. Paddock history of the site analyses. From the basis of detailed soil includes canola (1999); oats (1998); analysis, and plant tissue analysis when wheat (1997 & 1996). Average annual necessary, a specific fertiliser rainfall is 400mm, with an average recommendation is made for the soil growing season rainfall of 250mm. sample.

Systems involved 3) Soil Management Riverina: This There are seven alternate systems system also focuses on achieving a involved in the trial at Rankins Springs, balance of nutrients in the soil. It is a with each system consisting of 3 x 0.3ha private company established in 1998 plots (a total of lha) in a random block owned by a group of local farmers and

Rankins Springs 121 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

was developed in response to a need for 7) Organic: This system is being managed independent agronomic advice. by a local organic grower along the lines of a certified organic crop. The first few 4) Alroc Mineral Fertilisers: This years it was managed as a paddock or system is based on mineral fertilisers. farm in conversion to certified organic ALROC mineral fertiliser is an organic production, with vetch used to build up slow release fertiliser made from a blend soil fertility levels. 2003 marked the of crushed volcanic rocks (basalt, granite, beginning of all systems being aligned in dolomite, bentonite and rock phosphate). terms of crop rotation. 5) Nutri-Tech: This system aims to balance the nutrients in the soil as well as 2004 Results enhance the soil microbes. It uses an in- depth fertility analysis service called 2004 was again a very tough year for the Nutri-Tech Soil Therapy. Rankins Springs area. Yields of winter crops were generally well below average 6) BioAg: This system aims to balance as a result of the dry growing conditions. and optimise the chemical, biological and Most growers sowed on the rain at the end physical properties of the soil. It is a of May. The rainfall for the site is shown biological farming system using methods in Table 1. and inputs designed to enhance the biological activity of the soils.

Table 1: Rainfall for 2004 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 11 11 0 11 25 11 22 32.5 14.5 9 24 16

Total Rainfall 187mm GSR 125mm

In 2004 all systems of the Rankins The difference in inputs of the different Springs trial were sown to wheat in mid systems remains a big eye opener for June. Crop details for 2004 were as most of the local growers, and the follows. operations inputs for each of the systems th ♦ Sowing date of trial: 17 June, 2005 in 2004 are shown below. ♦ Seed rate: 40 kg/ha. ♦ Crop and variety: Drysdale wheat

/. Conventional 1st Aug 2003 Spray Rup Pmax LVE @ 1 L/ha + 0.5 L/ha 8th Sept 2003 STX 450+820 cultivator 23rd Dec 2003 STX 440+820 cultivator 15th Apr 2004 Cultivate 17th June 2004 Spray Pmax @ 1 L/ha Sow Drysdale @ 40 kg/ha + pickle + 60 kg/ha DAP 17th Aug 2004 Spray Agtryne @ 0.6 L/ha 3rd Dec 2004 Harvest & Cartage

122 Rankins Springs CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

2. Albrecht

1st Aug 2003 Spray Rup Pmax LVE @ 1 L/ha + 0.5 L/ha 8th Sept 2003 STX 450+820 cultivator 23rd Dec 2003 STX 440+820 cultivator 15th Apr 2004 Cultivate 17th June 2004 Spray Pmax @lL/ha Sow Drysdale @ 40 kg/ha + pickle + 60 kg/ha DAP 17th Aug 2004 Spray Agtryne @ 0.6 L/ha 3rd Dec 2004 Harvest & Cartage

3. Soil Management 1st Aug 2003 Spray Rup Pmax LVE @ 1 L/ha + 0.5 L/ha 8th Sept 2003 STX 450+820 cultivator 23rd Dec 2003 STX 440+820 cultivator 15th Apr 2004 Cultivate 17th June 2004 Spray Pmax @ 1 L/ha Sow Drysdale @ 40 kg/ha + 90 kg/ha MAP 17th Aug 2004 Spray Agtryne @ 0.6 L/ha 3rd Dec 2004 Harvest & Cartage

4. Alroc 1st Aug 2003 Spray Rup Pmax LVE @ 1 L/ha + 0.5 L/ha 8th Sept 2003 STX 450+820 cultivator 23rd Dec 2003 STX 440+820 cultivator 15th Apr 2004 Cultivate 17th June 2004 Sow Drysdale @ 40 kg/ha + 120kg/ha MAP 17th Aug 2004 Spray Agtryne @ 0.6 L/ha

3rd Dec 2004 Harvest & Cartage

5. Nutri-tech 1st Aug 2003 Spray Rup Pmax LVE @ 1 L/ha + 0.5 L/ha 8th Sept 2003 STX 450+820 cultivator 23rd Dec 2003 STX 440+820 cultivator 15th Apr 2004 Cultivate 17th June 2004 Spray Pmax @ 1 L/ha Sow Drysdale @ 40 kg/ha + 2 L/t Nutrilife BioP + 5 L/t Seed Start; + 60 kg/ha Guano granules + 20 kg/ha Prilled C nitrate + 2 kg/ha K humate granules + 4 kg/ha stabilised B granules + 5 kg/ha Zn sulphate 17th Aug 2004 Spray Agtryne @ 0.6 L/ha; 3rd Dec 2004 Harvest & Cartage

Rankins Springs 123 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

6. Bio-Ag 1st Aug 2003 Spray Rup Pmax LVE @ 1 L/ha + 0.5 L/ha 8th Sept 2003 STX 450+820 cultivator 23rd Dec 2003 STX 440+820 cultivator 15th Apr 2004 Cultivate 17th June 2004 Spray Pmax @ 1 L/ha Sow Drysdale @ 40 kg/ha + 50 kg/ha DAP 3.5 kg/ha soil & seed + 175 mg/ha vitamin B5 + 3 kg/ha microlime 17th Aug 2004 Spray Agtryne @ 0.6 L/ha 3rd Dec 2004 Harvest & Cartage

7. Organic 8th Sept 2003 STX 450+820 cultivator 23rd Dec 2003 STX 440+820 cultivator 15th Apr 2004 Cultivate 17th June 2004 Sow Drysdale @ 80 kg/ha 3rd Dec 2004 Harvest & Cartage Results - Yield & Grain highest grain proteins. Alroc and Nutri- Quality 2004 Tech had the lowest. The Organic system The highest yielding systems were Soil had the highest screenings (10.87%). Management, Bio-Ag, Albrecht and Conventional (Table 2). All systems were Given the season there were not a lot of significantly higher yielding than the gross margins which were positive in Organic system which yielded 0.15 t/ha. 2004 (Table 4). Although the organic system has low inputs its lower yield in Protein (Table 3) was generally high last 2004 still resulted in a negative gross season with all protein above 15%. The margin. Albrecht, Soil Management Albrecht, Conventional, Organic and Soil Riverina, and Bio-Ag all recorded a Management Riverina systems had the positive gross margin for 2004.

Table 2: Average yield of the alternative farming systems trial in 2004. SYSTEM Ave Yield (t/ha) Conventional 0.78 bc Albrecht 0.96 c Soil Management 1.00 c Alroc 0.66 b Nutri-Tech 0.70 b Bio-Ag 1.00 c Organic 0.15 a lsd 5% 0.2522

124 Rankins Springs CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 3: Average grain quality in 2004

TREATMENT PROTEIN SCREENINGS TEST WEIGHT Albrecht 16.1 c 8.4 bc 79.33 Alroc 14.97 a 6.3 a 80.33 BioAg 15.9 be 5.77 a 79.17 Conventional 16.27 c 6.9 ab 79.67 Nutri-tech 15.47 ab 5.4 a 79.67 Organic 16.33 c 10.87 d 78.83 Soil Management 16.2 c 8.93 cd 78.67 Significant Yes Yes No Isd 0.514 0.514

Table 4: Average gross margins for 2004

Total Variable Gross Income ($) Cost ($) Margin ($/ha) Conventional 126.67 141.68 -15.01 Albrecht 153.02 143.48 9.54 Soil Management 158.40 157.38 1.02 Alroc 107.98 167.48 -59.51 Nutri-Tech 114.80 183.88 -69.08 Bio-Ag 164.00 157.92 6.08 Organic 23.19 91.62 -68.43

Results summary 2000 to 2004 The dry seasons and low yields have had Since the trial commenced in 2000 we a negative effect on the gross margins, have had 5 relatively tough seasons with particularly those systems that have large mostly below average rainfall. This has inputs, with long-term benefit. For made the interpretation of the results example a lime application may last 15 difficult. Being a long term trial and years but the cost of application is having a lot of work go into adjusting the included in the gross margin of the year soil conditions of various systems, we are of application. It may take some years for hoping the next few years will show more the benefits of these applications to be trends in our results. seen.

Table 5: 5 year (2000-2004) average gross margin ($/ha)

Total Gross Total Variable Total Gross Average Gross SYSTEM Income ($) Costs ($) Margin ($/ha) Margin Conventional 488.09 591.78 -103.68 -25.92 Albrecht 472.45 962.46 -490.00 -122.50 Soil Management 429.43 570.44 -141.01 -35.25 Alroc 402.03 813.70 -411.66 -102.92 Nutri-tech 471.31 995.73 -524.43 -131.11 Bio-Ag 528.16 807.67 -279.52 -69.88 Organic 254.24 429.13 -174.89 -43.72

Rankins Springs 125 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

After 5 years, the conventional system is In 2005 the group proposes to prepare the slightly ahead of the other systems (Table site in anticipation of sowing a crop of 5), although there is little difference barley, if there is not enough planting rain between the conventional system, the Soil to sow the barley then the site may be Management Riverina and Organic fallowed in 2005. systems in terms of gross margin. The organic system has had low input costs, Acknowledgements with the variable costs over the past 5 The Rankins Springs CWFS group and years the lowest. all its members would like to thank all the sponsors for their support over the past Summary 12 months. Your continued involvement The Rankins Springs group is looking and support is important for our ongoing forward to the next 5 years of the trial as success. the grounds have now been set for differences to show up based on the condition of the soil.

Local site Sponsors: Bayer Crop Science, Dow AgroSciences, BASF, Nufarm, Yenda Fruit & Case Supplies, F & R McNabb Pty Ltd, Incitec Pivot, Hi-Fert, National Australia Bank, PIBA, SGB, Auswest Seeds, Hart Bros Seeds, Pacific Seeds, Pioneer Seeds, One Steel, Yenda Producers, Elders VP, Rawlinson & Brown, Landmark and NSW Agriculture. CWFS Major Sponsors: Grain Growers Association, AWB and NSW DPI

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TOTTENHAM

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF TOTTENHAM RESULTS

• Field peas are the best performing pulse. • Chlorsulfuron herbicides may cause yield decreases. If so addition of P and/or Zn will not diminish the damage.

Tottenham 127 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003) TOTTENHAM

Soil information for the occur, rotation of crops, soil type); iii) species selection; and iv) disease and Tottenham area pest management (2003). The soils are generally red sandy loams that have a clay content of about 10 - Sulphonylurea herbicides, phosphorus, 15%. The surface soil is generally acidic zinc and wheat trials (2001-2003) with an alkaline subsoil. The surface 0-10 • Chlorsulfuron herbicides (e.g. Glean®) cm has a pH ranging between 4 - 5.5. Ca were found to decrease wheat yields at The effective cation exchange capacity some sites under some seasonal (eCEC) is about 8-18 meq/100g. The conditions. phosphorus status of the soil is usually • The effect of phosphorus (P) application low to medium (Colwell P between 8 -20 on wheat yield was correlated with soil mg/kg). The organic carbon status is low P levels (i.e. if soil P was low, then there (0.5 - 1.5%) which is typical of soils in was a big yield increase to higher low rainfall environments. applications of P. If soil P was high, there was little yield increase with Trial Results for the Tottenham higher applications of P). area • If soil Colwell P is less than 30 ppm (or All conclusions given are from trials 30 mg/kg) then 20 kg P/ha applied as written up in full in the CWFS Annual fertiliser should give a yield increase Research Compendiums from 1998 - (compared with lower P fertiliser 2004. For more details, please see the application). relevant article. The year of the trial is • There were no yield increases to applied given in brackets after the conclusion. zinc (Zn) fertiliser. • P and Zn did not change any yield • Field peas (average 0.99 t/ha) yielded penalty suffered because of higher than lupins (average 0.33 t/ha) chlorsulfuron herbicide damage in wheat and vetch (average 0.22 t/ha). (2003) (i.e. you can't add extra P or Zn to get rid • When choosing a pulse you need to of the damage) consider - i) time of sowing; ii) paddock choice (e.g. weeds likely to

Figure 1: Tottenham Rainfall 1998-2004.

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 60 33 0 43 44 35 91 125 88 39 59 5 622 1999 97 19 115 19 11 18 28 42 49 90 53 117 658 2000 15 31 124 44 103 14 20 33 7 59 141 14 605 2001 6 27 77 45 26 42 58 8 28 36 32 22 407 2002 59 134 22 22 24 5 2 2 52 0 0 8 330 2003 32 69 13 29 5 47 34 85 3 47 19 34 417 2004 84 25 29 20 40 32 31 34 27 32 19 98 471

128 Tottenham CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Climate Information for the rain, and its lowest rainfall in winter. Tottenham area September is the month receiving the least amount of rain. Rainfall The rainfall for Tottenham has been The average annual rainfall for recorded for 121 years, from 1884 to Tottenham is 473 mm, with a standard 2004. Using this historical information a deviation of 172 mm. The highest annual monthly rainfall record for Tottenham can rainfall on record was 1,127 mm in 1950, be seen in Figure 1. Tottenham receives whilst the lowest annual rainfall on its highest rainfall in summer, with record was 149 mm in 1888. January having the most amount of

Figure 1: Monthly rainfall for Tottenham.

Frost one year out of twenty a frost can occur Frost information for the Tottenham area until the 6th October. To use this (Table 2) indicates that a frost can occur information, you would be best to sow at until the 6n September one year out of a time late enough so that wheat will five. In one year out of ten, a frost will flower after the 24th September each year. occur as late as the 24lh September and in

Table 2: Frost information for the region (taken from B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu). Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Tottenham 129 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Temperature Averages of each month's maximum and minimum daily air temperatures for the Tottenham area are shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Maximum and minimum temperatures (°C) for Tottenham. Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 17.8 18.0 14.5 9.9 6.4 3.1 2.1 3.4 5.8 9.5 12.6 15.7 Maximum 32.9 32.4 29.6 24.7 19.9 16.1 15.3 17.2 20.5 24.6 28.4 32.2

Acknowledgements and • CWFS Staff who assisted with these Thanks trials: Rob Sanderson, Allan This work would not have been possible L’Estrange, Daiyl Reardon. without the support of all involved with • Top Woodlands Ag Bureau. CWFS - members, staff, partners and • Site Coordinator: Sonya Tassell. sponsors. • Regional Site Co-operators: C. Vincent, K. Greig, A. Jarvis, J. At the Tottenham site thanks to the Medcalf. following people for their work, time, • Regional Site Chairman: Keith effort and support (both past and present) Greig. • Regional Site Committee members. • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC. Stockman and Sharon Taylor. • CWFS Regional Sites’ Sponsor: • NSW DPI District Agronomists: Grain Growers Association. Paul Lukins, John Francis and Nathan • Tottenham Sponsors: Grain Corp, Border. Top Woodlands Ag Bureau, NSW • NSW DPI staff who have assisted DPI. with the trials, particularly the Crop Evaluation Unit (Neil Durning and To all who have attended Field Days, Tim McNee), Nick Moody, Jim meetings, talks, seminars and other Presley, Neil Fettell, the statisticians events; thank you for your support. and those who spoke at field days.

130 Tottenham CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Wheat after pulses Sharon Taylor, CWFS

Key points • Wheat yields and quality did not differ after field peas, lupins and vetch in 2003. • Based on this year's results and the 2003 pulse trial results, the pulse crop more likely to be suited to the Tottenham cropping rotation is field peas. • Based on research conducted by Fettell (2003) in Condobolin, wheat yields and protein levels were higher after field peas compared to cereals.

Why do the trial? was undertaken by the land owner, Keith The Tottenham regional site committee, Greig, and CWFS staff. in assoication with the Top Woodlands Ag Bureau, in 2003 conducted a pulse The trial was sown, using an International rd trial looking at field peas, lupins and combine on the 3 June. All plots were vetch compared to undersown barley. sown with H45 wheat at 35 kg/ha with 55 The aim of this trial was to compare kg/ha MAP fertiliser. Prior to sowing ® ® pulse production, as well as, assess the Roundup CT and Triflur X were used follow-on benefits of different pulses to for weed control. The rainfall for the wheat. In 2004 the pulse plots were Tottenham trial site is shown in Figure 1. sown to wheat to investigate the benefits of growing wheat after pulses. The What happened? undersown barley plots were not sown The yield and test weight results from this to wheat, as the group wanted to see trial can be seen in Figure 2. There is no how the lucerne established. significant difference (P<0.05) between wheat yields and test weights. This shows, In presenting the data from this trial, I regardless of the pulse crop sown in 2003, will also present data from research the benefit to the following wheat crop in conducted by Dr Neil Fettell, NSW DPI, 2004 was the same between all pulses. Condobolin (Fettell 2003). The reason for presenting this data is that it The protein and screening results for this compares the follow-on benefits of field trial can be seen in Figure 3. These results peas and cereals on two following wheat show there is no significant difference crops in Condobolin. This information is (P<0.05) between the protein or screenings additional to the current trial work of wheat due to the pulse crop grown the which only compares the differences previous year. between pulse crops. Neil Fettell’s research How was it done? The wheat yield and protein in 1999 and The trial was designed as a randomized 2000, following different crop species and replicated block with two replicates. The management techniques in 1998, are shown trial plots were 25 m long and 6 m wide. in Figure 4. This figure shows that field The trial was located on a local farmer's peas, in all management techniques, property just north of Tottenham, along produced higher wheat yields and protein the Nevertire Road, on a red brown levels in both years compared to oats. earth. Trial management

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Conclusions screening levels were not significantly The main standout point in this trial is that different in 2004. This has shown in 2004, regardless of the pulse crop grown in 2003, that the choice of alternative crop in 2003 the wheat yields, test weight, protein and would not have had an effect on wheat

132 Tottenham CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 4. Wheat yield and protein response to crop species and management in Condobolin

yields in 2004. As there were no wheat because field peas fixed nitrogen, therefore yield or quality differences, it would be leaving nitrogen for the following crop. recommended to farmers that they recall the pulse trial results in 2003 to assist in Other factors selecting an alternative crop for their One factor to be considered was the fact that system. this area, in 2004, was in their 3rd year of drought. Therefore the conditions were The trial in 2003 concluded that field peas extremely tough for the trial. A second factor and undersown barley yielded the highest to consider is the conditions in 2003 and with the best gross margins. Therefore, 2004 produced low yields that have affected based on these results the alternative crop the results of this trial. In an average rainfall that would be best suited to Tottenham year these results could be different. cropping rotations would be field peas. Field peas had a better yield and gross Acknowledgements margin then lupins and vetch in 2003, I would like to thank the members of the Top whilst providing the same follow-on Woodlands Ag Bureau and the farmers in the benefits to wheat in 2004. Tottenham district for their support and interest in this trial throughout the year. On Before deciding to grow field peas, or behalf of the group I would also like to thank pulse crops in general, farmers need to Allan L’Estrange and Daryl Reardon for remember the following management their technical support. I would also like to issues are extremely important: time of thank Keith Greig for allowing us to have the sowing, paddock selection, species trial on his property and for his support selection and disease and pest whilst he was in Tottenham. management. For further information please refer to page 93 of the CWFS References Research Compendium 2003-2004 Fettell, N. (2003) Integrating field peas into (Taylor 2004). the fanning system. Field Pea Focus 2003, Proceedings. Pulse Australia. In respect to Fettell’s (2003) research it was concluded that wheat produced after Taylor, S. (2004) Tottenham CWFS Site - field peas yielded higher than after Pulse Trial. Central West Farming Systems cereals, when additional nitrogen fertiliser Research Compendium 2003-2004. Progress was not applied. This result occurred Print, Condobolin.

Tottenham 133 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Alternative crops trial Sharon Taylor, CWFS

Key Points • The best yielding crops were undersown barley, at l t/ha, and wheat, at 0.8 t/ha. • Excel field peas were the only alternative crop to yield similar to wheat, but like all other alternative crops, its yield was statistically different from undersown barley. • Wheat and undersown barley were the only trial entries to have positive gross margins. • Kaspa field peas had the lowest gross margin in the alternative crops because of high seed costs.

Why do the trial? also provided. The rainfall for the The Tottenham regional site committee, Tottenham trial site is shown in Figure 1. in assoication with the TOP Woodlands Ag Bureau, in 2004 conducted a trial to Variety Descriptions look at alternative crops to wheat and Wheat barley. This trial is an extension of a Janz is prime hard quality with moderate pulse trial, which was conducted in 2003, seedling vigour. It has medium to strong that only looked at field peas, lupins, straw strength with good lodging and vetch and undersown barley. In 2004 the shattering resistance. Janz has good group wanted to look further into milling quality. Sunbri is also a prime alternative crops therefore chickpeas, hard wheat. It doesn't have the seeding canola and wheat were included in the vigour of some varieties, however it has trial. All crops were assessed on yield and strong straw. gross margin. Barley/Lucerne How was it done? Schooner barley is the main central and The trial was designed as a randomized southern malting variety. It was replicated block. There were three undersown in this trial with L69 and replicates with each alternative crop Hunterfield lucerne. L69 is highly winter present in each replicate, with the plots active and is highly resistant to both 30 m long and 6 m wide. The trial was spotted alfalfa and blue-green aphids. It is located on a local fanner's property just resistant to phytophthora root rot, highly on the western edge of Tottenham. It was resistant to anthracnose and has low managed by the Tottenham Regional Site resistance to stem nematode. Hunterfield group and CWFS staff. has moderate growth in winter, with vigorous seedling growth and rapid The trial was sown using a cone seeder regrowth after cutting or grazing. It is on the 14th June. All varieties, seeding suitable for hay production and has a rates, fertiliser rates and sowing times for quick response to summer/autumn rains. this trial are given in Table 1. For each species grown at least one variety that Fieldpeas was suited to the Tottenham district was Kaspa is a dun pea which has vigorous selected. A description for each variety is growth, medium height and shatter resistant pods, however, they can lodge at maturity. Excel is a blue pea which has

134 Tottenham CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

excellent standing ability at harvest, is susceptible to pod shattering. It is high yielding and semi-leafless with resistant to rust and susceptible to medium height. ascochyta blight. Haymaker vetch is a common vetch which has a middle Lupins maturity, a high potential for hay Jindalee is a narrow-leaf lupin with good production and hard seeded to some shatter resistance and lodging resistance. degree. It is also resistant to rust. It can be used in early sowing and has high resistance to stem blight, however it Canola can cause lupinosis in sheep. Merrit is ATR Beacon is triazine tolerant variety also a narrow-leaf lupin with good shatter with medium maturity, moderate yield resistance, resistance to root rot and and oil, high protein and a blackleg ratine moderate resistance with Phomopsis stem of 6. infection. Chickpeas Vetch Amethyst is a Desi type pea with a Popany vetch is a purple vetch which has medium height, moderate lodging a late maturity, a high potential for hay resistance and medium maturity. production, is hard seeded and is

Table 1. Alternative crop species, varieties, seeding rates, fertiliser rates and sowing time.

Species Number Variety Seeding Rate Fertiliser Sowing Time* (kg/ha) Field peas 1 Kaspa 122 60 kg/ha Trifos Late 2 Excel 122 60 kg/ha Trifos Late Lupins 3 Jindalee 65 60 kg/ha Trifos Late 4 Merrit 67 60 kg/ha Trifos Late Vetch 5 Popanv 32 60 kg/ha Trifos Late 6 Haymaker 32 60 kg/ha Trifos Late Undersown barley 7 L69 2 80 kg/ha MAP Optimum with lucerne 8 Hunterfieki 2 80 kg/ha MAP Optimum Schooner Barley 24 Optimum Wheat 9 Jan: 35 80 kg/ha DAP Late 10 Sanbri 35 80 kg/ha DAP Late Canola 11 A TR Beacon 3 80 kg/ha DAP Late Chickpeas 12 Amethyst 46 60 kg/ha Trifos Late * Sowing time - Optimum: preferred sowing time. Late: later then recommended, yield reductions expected.

Figure 1. Rainfall at the Tottenham regional site alternative crop trial 2004

Tottenham 135 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

What happened? The yield results for each crop variety can sown later than recommended, were be seen in Figure 2. This figure shows a Haymaker vetch, Popany vetch and significant difference (P<0.05) in yield Amethyst chickpeas. In the pulse crops between crops. The highest yielding crop, the highest yielding variety was Excel which was sown in the optimum sowing field peas, followed by Kaspa field peas window, was Schooner barley undersown and Merrit lupins. The field peas and with either L69 or Hunterfield lucerne. lupins were also sown later than The lowest yielding crops, which were recommended.

Figure 2. Grain yield (t/ha) for the Tottenham regional site alternative crop trial Note: columns with the same letter are not significantly different

The gross margins for all trial entries can profitability of field peas and lupins is seed be seen in Figure 3. The gross margin costs ($/ha), with prices around $128.10/t results show a significant difference and $120.78/t and $58.50/t and $60.30/t (P<0.05). The variety that generated the respectively. highest gross margin was Schnooner barley undersown with Hunterfield, this was not Conclusions significantly different from undersowing The main points in this trial were: with L69. The next highest gross margins • In 2004 the only crop to yield over 1 were Janz and Sunbri wheat. All the t/ha was the undersown barley, with the alternative crops had negative gross wheat yielding just under 0.8 t/ha. Both margins. Kaspa field peas had the lowest of these crops were the only crops to gross margin, however this was not have a positive gross margin. significantly different from Excel field • In the alternative crops, the only peas, Popany vetch or Haymaker vetch. variety to have a yield similar to wheat was Excell field peas, whilst the lowest The total variable costs and approximate yielding alternative crops were vetch breakeven yields for each trial entry can be and chickpeas. seen in Table 2 (at the end of the paper). • All the alternative crops had negative These figures explain the low gross gross margins, with Kaspa field peas the margins for both field peas and lupins. The lowest. main variable cost affecting the

136 Tottenham CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 3. Gross margins ($/ha) for the Tottenham regional site alternative crop trial

Note: columns with the same letter are not significantly different • improving the health and fertility of • The variable cost with the greatest impact soils, mainly pulse crops on the profitability of field peas and The rotational benefits of alternative crops lupins was the cost of seed. can be seen not only in normal years, but These results are interesting to farmers also in dry years. It is up to you as the farmer because they show that in drought years to decide if the higher input costs are alternative crops can be expensive to justifiable for the rotational benefits. produce due to higher input costs, associated Other factors with the cost of seed and insecticide applications, and their lower yields One factor was that this area in 2004 was in their 3rd year of drought. The conditions compared to cereals. were extremely tough for the trial, with only It is recommended that farmers don't look at 184 mm of rainfall during the growing these trial results and conclude that season. alternative crops don't play a role in farming systems, because of poor gross margins in The other factor is the sowing time for the lh 2004. These results merely indicate that trial. The trial was sown, on 14 June, after farmers need to seriously think about adequate moisture was available in the soil whether or not to sow alternative crops in profile. This resulted in a late sowing for all drought years, when trying to limit input trial entries, expect the undersown barley. costs. Alternative crops can play a very important role in our cropping systems when Acknowledgements the right crop is selected for the right I would like to thank the members of the Top paddock at the right time. They offer many Woodlands Ag Bureau and the fanners in the benefits to the cropping rotation, such as: Tottenham district for their support and • provide a disease break in cereal interest in this trial throughout the year. On rotations behalf of the group I would also like to thank • better control of grasses Allan L’Estrange, Daryl Reardon and Jimmy • rotation of herbicides, particularly for Presley for their technical support. I would broad-leaf weeds also like to thank the Medcalf family for • extension of the cropping rotation allowing us to have the trial on their property.

Tottenham 137 Table 2. Variable costs for the Tottenham regional site alternative crons trial. Wheat Undersown Barley Field Peas Lupins Vetch Canola Chickpeas Janz Sunbri L69 Hunter field Kaspa Excell Jindalce Merrit Popany Haymaker Beacon Amethyst VARIABLE COSTS: Seed seed cost ($/ha) $21.35 $21.35 $19.52 $9.00 $128.10 $120.78 $58.50 $60.30 $36.80 $36.80 $12.60 $36.80 sowing $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 $7.37 Barley seed cost ($/ha) $5.28 $5.28 Fertiliser Triphos @ 60 kg/ha $18.00 $18.00 $18.00 $18.00 $18.00 $18.00 $18.00 DAP @ 80 kg/ha $43.20 $43.20 $43.20 MAP @ 80 kg/ha $34.40 $34.40 Herbicide Pre-sowing Roundup Powermax @ 1.2 L/ha $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 $6.20 Triflm- X @1.2L/ha $10.20 $10.20 $10.20 $10.20 $10.20 $10.20 $10.20 $10.20 $10.20 $10,20 $10,20 $10.20 spray boom $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1,83 $1.83 $1.83 Post sowing Verdict @ 0.075 L/ha $18.75 $18.75 $18.75 $18.75 $18.75 $18.75 $18.75 $18.75 MCPALVE@ 1.7 L/ha $8.25 $8.25 Brodal@ 0.2 L/ha $28.00 $28.00 Buctril @ 1.4 L/lia $18.20 $18.20 Lontrel @ 0.3L/ha $17.40 spray boom $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83

Insecticide Karate @ 0.02 L/ha $4.77 $4.77 S4.77 S4.77 S4.77 S4.77 spray boom $1.83 $1.83 S1.83 $1.83 $1.83 $1.83 Total Variable Costs ($/ha): $100.23 $100.23 $104.83 $94.31 S226.88 S219.56 $129.28 S131.08 $100.98 $100.98 S125.98 $107.58

Approx. Breakeven Yield (t) 0.72 0.72 0.81 0.73 1.03 1.00 0.65 0.66 0.50 0.50 0.39 J 0.40 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

UNGARIE

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF UNGARIE RESULTS

• P fertiliser at 20 kg P/ha should be applied to wheat. • Field peas are the best performing pulse. • Very high rates of N can decrease germination. • Morava vetch is a good choice for hay production.

Ungarie 139

CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003) UNGARIE

Soil information for Ungarie germination, regardless of fertiliser The soils are generally red loams that coating or product applied (1999). have a clay content of about 20-25%. The • Addition of phosphorus (P) fertiliser, surface soil is generally acidic with an up to 20 kg P/ha, gave significant alkaline subsoil. The surface 0-10 cm has wheat yield increases. Average wheat a pHca ranging between 4 - 5.5. The yield was 5.10 t/ha (2000). effective cation exchange capacity • Returns of $3 for every $ 1 spent on P, (eCEC) is 6 - 15 rneq/100g. The applied at 20 kg P/ha, could be phosphorus status of the soil is usually expected (2000). medium (Colwell P 12 -28 mg/kg). The organic carbon status is low (0.5 - 1.5%) Agronomic Trials which is typical of soils in low rainfall • Field peas gave high dry matter but environments. lower quality hay. Challus lathyrus gave low dry matter but excellent Trial Results for Ungarie quality hay. Vetch gave medium dry All conclusions given are from trials matter and medium quality hay and is written up in full in the CWFS Annual a good choice for hay-production Research Compendiums from 1998 - (2003). 2004. For more details, please see the • Morava vetch is a good varietal relevant article. The year of the trial is choice as it makes good hay and has given in brackets after the conclusion. low hardseededness, so you won't have persistent vetch problems Fertiliser Trials (2003). • High rates of nitrogen (N) fertiliser (80 kgN/ha) decreased wheat

Table 1: Rainfall for Ungarie 1998 - 2004.

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 62 10 0 42 19 61 60 85 80 44 44 1 508 1999 35 9 50 12 11 30 36 57 34 112 38 45 469 2000 0 40 36 49 66 26 20 53 20 57 96 10 473 2001 3 40 41 13 9 64 23 21 51 29 6 4 304 2002 4 72 14 13 22 18 12 9 33 0 2 1 200 2003 10 89 4 9 1 23 55 58 12 31 5 39 336 2004 35 34 0 11 27 34 10 24 17 20 38 12 261 Ungarie Climate Information rainfall in autumn. Both April and September have the lowest monthly Rainfall rainfall. The rainfall for Ungarie has been recorded for 109 years, from 1896 to The average annual rainfall for Ungarie is 2004. Using this historical information a 442 mm, with a standard deviation of 139 monthly rainfall record for Ungarie can mm. The highest annual rainfall on record be seen in Figure 1. Ungarie receives its was 882 mm in 1956, whilst the lowest highest rainfall in summer, with January annual rainfall on record was 200 mm in receiving the most rain, and its lowest 2002.

140 Ungarie CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 1: Monthly rainfall at Ungarie.

Frost one year out of twenty a frost can occur Frost information for the Ungarie area until the 10lh October. To use this (Table 2) indicates that a frost can occur information, you would be best to sow at until the 8th September one year out of a time late enough so that wheat will five. In one year out of ten, a frost will flower after the end of September each lh occur as late as the 27 September and in year.

Table 2: Frost information for the region (taken from B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu). Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October Temperature Condobolin (the closest location) are Averages of each month's maximum and shown in the following table. minimum daily air temperatures for

Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 18.9 19.0 15.9 11.1 7.7 4.3 3.6 5.2 7.4 11.3 14.1 17.1 Maximum 32.8 32.6 29.3 24.4 19.2 15.4 14.6 16.8 20.0 24.6 27.9 31.6

Ungarie 141 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Acknowledgements and • David Harbison, Hi Fert, for Thanks conducting trials with us. • Rade Matic, SARDI, for vetch seed. This work would not have been possible • Regional Site Co-operators: without the support of all involved with Rowling family, Peter and Kerrie Gordon, CWFS - members, staff, partners and Pat and Marg Daniher and Graeme and sponsors. Brony Mason. • Regional Site Chairman: Peter At the Ungarie site thanks to the Gordon following people for their work, time, • Regional Site Committee members. effort and support (both past and present) • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC • CWFS Regional Sites' Sponsor: • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda Grain Growers Association Stockman and Sharon Taylor. • Ungarie Sponsors: Hi Fert, SARDI, • NSW DPI District Agronomists: Grain Corp, NSW DPI Paul Lukins, John Francis and Nathan Border. To all who have attended Field Days, • NSW DPI staff who have assisted meetings, talks, seminars and other with these trials, particularly the Crop events; thank you for your support. Evaluation Unit staff (Tim McNee), Jim Presley, Nick Moody.

142 Ungarie CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

WEETHALLE

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF WEETHALLE RESULTS

• P fertiliser up to 20 kg P/ha should be applied to wheat. • N application of 50-100 kg urea/ha is returned in grain yield and/or protein unless sowing is late or the season is dry. • Minimum tillage gives better yields than no tillage and gives the same yields as conventional tillage. • Early sowing (May) of wheat is important for good yields. • If sowing late (June) barley gives higher yields than wheat.

Weethalle 143 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003} WEETHALLE

Soil information yield compared with no tillage Many of the Weethalle district's soils are (1999). red brown earths. These soils generally • Timing of cultivation of a chemical have a light surface soil with a clay fallow seemed to be unimportant to content of about 10-25%. The surface soil wheat yields (1999). is generally acidic. The subsoil is alkaline • Yields of wheat after reduced tillage and usually a heavy clay. The surface 0- were equivalent to yields after 10 cm has a pHca ranging between 4 -5.5. conventional tillage (2000). The effective cation exchange capacity • Yield of wheat direct drilled in (eCEC) is 6 - 15 meq/100g. The stubble retention were lower than phosphorus status of the soil is naturally wheat yields where stubble had been low to medium (Colwell P 12 - 28 burnt (2000). This was also found in mg/kg). The organic carbon status is low other trials, according to the 1996 (0.5 - 1.5%) which is typical of soils in GRDC review of long-term tillage low rainfall environments. trials.

Trial Results for the Weethalle Pasture Trials area • Lucerne is best sown as a pure/elite All conclusions given are from trials stand compared with being written up in full in the CWFS Annual undersown with a cover crop where Research Compendiums from 1998 - there is competition for soil moisture 2004. For more details, please see the (1998). relevant article. The year of the trial is • Lucerne removal was most effective given in brackets after the conclusion. when MCPA amine, Lontrel® and/or Tordon 242® were used in late Fertiliser Trials autumn (1999). • Practical nitrogen (N) fertiliser rates of 50 - 100 kg/ha of urea, applied Agronomic Trials prior to sowing in May, give effective • Wheat sown in early May yielded 20- N recovery rates in grain of 30- 50% 30% higher than wheat sown in early of the applied N (1998). June (2000). • For each $ spent on urea, the return is • Barley sown in early June yielded doubled (1998). equivalent to wheat sown in early • If sowing occurs in late June or if the May (2000). season is dry, N recovery is not • Early sowing (i.e. in May) is effective and the N application is not important for good wheat yields economic (1998). (2001). • In a good year, 40 kg/ha MAP is not • In the dry conditions of 2002, few adequate for crop growth. 80 kg/ha crops were harvested. (2002). MAP is required (average yield 2.2 • From 1999-2003, the farming systems t/ha). (2000). demonstration has shown that phase farming and wheat/fallow have been Tillage Trials the most profitable (2003). • One deep (15 - 20 cm) cultivation appeared to be beneficial for wheat

144 Weethalle CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

• Urea application is less risky and and lack of growth of pulse crops and more reliable than pasture/ley for subclover leys (2003). Rainfall is shown increasing wheat yields (2003). in Table 1. • Dry conditions present problems with weed control (herbicides ineffective)

Table 1: Rainfall for Weethalle area 1998 - 2004.

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 56 13 0 42 10 56 50 77 39 43 36 20 442 1999 25 11 65 25 20 24 53 62 37 126 27 135 610 2000 21 38 25 38 71 31 31 61 14 47 86 20 483 2001 6 32 39 13 11 63 20 28 33 52 7 4 308 2002 5 51 15 23 36 19 9 13 46 0 3 2 222 2003 7 130 7 4 9 28 62 60 13 31 6 62 429 2004 33 25 0 18 19 53 24 53 22 23 45 39 354 Climate Information for the its lowest rainfall in summer and spring. Weethalle area February has the lowest monthly rainfall whilst January, June and October all have Rainfall the highest monthly rainfall The rainfall for Yalgogrin has been recorded for 117 years, from 1888 to The average annual rainfall for the 2004. Yalgogrin is the closest recording Weethalle area is 473 mm, with a station to Weethalle. Using this historical standard deviation of 144 mm. The information a monthly rainfall record for highest annual rainfall on record was 890 Yalgogrin (the Weethalle area) can be mm in 1956, whilst the lowest annual seen in Figure 1. The Weethalle area rainfall on record was 201 mm in 1982. receives its highest rainfall in winter and

Figure 1: Average monthly rainfall data for Weethalle.

Frost out of twenty a frost can occur up until Frost information for the Weethalle area the 19th October. To use this information, is taken from the Yalgogrin north data as you would be best to sow at a time late it is the closest location. This data (Table enough so that wheat will flower after the 2) indicates that a frost can occur up until first week of October each year. the 17th September one year out of five. In one year out of ten, a frost will occur as late as the 6th October and in one year

Weethalle 145 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 2: Frost data for the region (taken from the work of B. J. Scott and D. L. Liu).

Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinva (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Temperature Weethalle area (temperatures taken from Averages of each month's maximum and the closest recording station, Rankins minimum daily air temperatures for the Springs) are shown in the following table.

Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 17.7 17.8 14.9 10.8 7.4 3.9 2.7 3.9 6.0 9.3 12.6 15.8 Maximum 32.9 32.6 29.3 24.1 19.4 15.4 14.6 16.5 19.6 23.9 28.1 31.8 Acknowledgements and Sanderson, Allan L’Estrange and Daryl Reardon. Thanks This work would not have been possible • Scott Boyle, Kondinin, who conducted without the support of all involved with trials with us. CWFS - members, staff, partners and • Co-operators: Rodney Tait, Rutledge sponsors. family, Templeton family, Kitto family, Luelf family and Daunt family. At the Weethalle site thanks to the • Regional Site Chairmen: Steve following people for their work, time, Rutledge, Rodney Tait. effort and support (both past and present) • Regional Site Committee members. • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda • CWFS Regional Sites’ Sponsor: Stockman and Sharon Taylor. Grain Growers Association • NSW DPI District Agronomist: Bob • Weethalle Sponsors: Kondinin, Thompson. Rabobank, NSW DPI. • NSW DPI staff who have assisted with these trials, particularly the Crop To all who have attended Field Days, Evaluation Unit staff (Neil Durning and meetings, talks, seminars and other Tim McNee), statisticians, those who events; thank you for your support. have spoken at Field Days. • CWFS Staff who have assisted with these trials: James Deeves, Rob

146 Weethalle CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Silverleaf Nightshade Demonstration 2000/2004 Bob Thompson, NSW DPI, West Wyalong

Co-operator: Malcolm Forrest, "Coon Park", Ungarie. Field Work: Bob Thompson, District Agronomist, NSW DPI, West Wyalong. Glenn Neyland, Noxious Weeds Officer, Bland Shire, West Wyalong. Aim: To demonstrate that herbicides could control and eradicate Silverleaf Nightshade, and foster the wider adoption of the effective treatment( s) by the wider farming community.

Trial Commenced: 24 November 2000 Spraying Stage: Early sucker and mid-berry

Spraying Method: 5m boom spray Water Rate: 75L/ha Pressure: 2 Bar

SLN Population: 1,000 to 1,500 stems/plot Soil Type: Red clay loam

Plot Size: 10m x 50m (5% ha) Sample Plot: 4m x 50m

Background Starane 200® strategy (treatment 3 in this Silverleaf Nightshade (SLN) is a demonstration); and (3) 2,4-D amine and problematic and entrenched noxious Roundup CT® strategy (treatment 4 in weed in many districts. SLN is a very this demonstration), robust weed. To date there is no product that can be applied to eradicate this weed Control of this weed is a wearing battle of in one season. attrition that is expected to take some five to six years. Deviation from the Many fanners have had a long interest in prescribed management program in a eradicating SLN but have had mixed single season may return the site back to results with SLN control for a variety of "square one" status. reasons. The two spray program is the most Barney Milne, Weeds Research Officer, practical for most fanners as it is less of a NSW Agriculture at Orange established burden on their time. The program many SLN control trials during the early established by Barney Milne was to kill 1990's, which identified 3 treatments as the first stems/suckers within 4 weeks of the most likely options that would emergence in spring. The plants will re- progress towards eradicating SLN. These sucker in 2 to 4 weeks and this further treatments are registered for farmer use. depletes carbohydrate reserves in the They are: (1) monthly 2, 4-D amine rhizomes. It should also even up the onset applications (treatment 2 in this of berry formation in late summer or demonstration); (2) 2, 4-D amine and early autumn.

Weethalle 147 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 1. The annual silverleaf nightshade stem counts. TREATMENTS S LN stems/sample area 12.11.01 29.10.02 7.11.03 29.10.04 1. Control 616 331 79 13

2. 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + l.0L/ha CSO (monthly) 62 49 161 2

3. 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + l.0L/ha CSO (1st sucker) + 34 40 49 1 750ml/ha Starane 200 + l.0L/ha CSO (berry) 4. 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + l.0L/ha CSO (1st sucker) + 78 82 55 1 2.0L/ha Roundup CT +2.0L/ha CSO (berry) 5. 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + l.0L/ha CSO (1st sucker) + 88 90 112 1 1.0L/ha 2,4-D ester + l.0L/ha CSO (berry) 6. 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + l.0L/ha CSO (1st sucker) + 91 112 102 3 600ml/ha Tordon 75D (berry) 7. 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + l.0L/ha CSO (1st sucker) + 45 98 60 3 1.5L/ha Tordon 242 (berry) 8. 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + l.0L/ha CSO (1st sucker) + 75 81 80 4 4.0L/ha Atrazine 500 + 2.0L/ha CSO (berry) 9. 4.0L/ha Atrazine 500 + 2.0L/ha CSO (1st sucker) + 41 107 30 2 1.5L/ha 2,4-D amine + 1 .0L/ha CSO (berry) Date of Early Berry Formation/Spray Date 5.3.02 25.3.03 13.4.03 Note: CSO = Caltex Summer Oil The dates at the top of the column are both the observation date and sucker spraying date.

Best advice suggests that SLN lays down Discussion new carbohydrate reserves when it starts The treatments in this demonstration are to produce berries in late summer or early not replicated. We are aiming to show the autumn and it is crucial to SLN eradication of SLN from the plot. The persistence. Many perennial plants like plots are 10m wide and 50m long. It is lucerne and horehound have key seasonal not possible to count plants; we count windows in which to also recruit suckers/stems in the sample area, which carbohydrates. It is crucial to time the is 4m wide and 50m long in the centre of second spraying with Starane 200® or the plot. Roundup CT® with the translocation of carbohydrates into the rhizomes, as it The data in Table 1 shows progress is maximises bud death along a greater slow; we still have the burden in front of proportion of the rhizome and prevents us. What the results do not show is the viable seed set. Sucker death is slow. stems in the control area are tall and Slickers may take 6 to 10 weeks to wilt. healthy in spite of the drought, their The slower the wilting; the greater the stems are usually 20cm to 40cm tall, translocation of herbicide down the while the stems in the treated areas are rhizome. very short and spindly, some are 5 cm to 10cm tall. A group of farmers at Gulgong are claiming that progress is being made by Treatments 5 to 9 were included as applying 2, 4-D amine 500® at four carryovers from local trials in 1992/93. weekly intervals as new suckers appear. It The two Tordon products were trialled is a highly labour intensive and expensive because it was thought that they would program but it mitigates the issue of a kill SLN but the registered rates were crucially timed application in early very high and unaffordable for broadacre autumn. use. We wish to continue with observing

148 Weethalle CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

the two Tordon products as we thought SLN is very sensitive to foliar they may have useful application applications of atrazine but having opportunities in the cropping or fallowing observed late summer suckers emerging phase. in treatment 9, this suggests that residual atrazine on the soil is not effective To date, progress is satisfactory with the against the second initiation of suckers. two Tordon’s, although the Tordon 242® The atrazine sits in the top 5mm of the rate may have been more effective if soil surface and the sucker stems are not increased to 2.0 litres per hectare. Using establishing surface roots to absorb the Tordon will remove clovers and medics herbicide during the current three years of from the pasture for the next 12 months. drought. Observations during a wet The plant back for pulse and oilseed summer may prove interesting. crops is also 12 months. There is no current expectation of registering either Conclusion Tordon product for SLN at these rates. We are optimistic that the demonstration is making progress towards eradication; Treatment 5 is the local farmers' choice; albeit slow. The drought has made some claim it is a successful option. progress difficult because I suspect we Remember Roundup CT® was are not getting the same level of herbicide $12.00/litre in 1992 and Starane 300® translocation into the rhizomes as we did was $34.00/litre. Its performance to date in the early 1990's. We are prepared to is satisfactory. push on with the demonstration for another two years with the expectation of Some northern farmers indicated that eradication. SLN was sensitive to simazine and atrazine. The 1992 local trial confirmed Postscript that SLN sensitivity to the foliar Adjoining this demonstration we have application of atrazine. The atrazine planted a small area with four eucalypt treatment was equal in SLN control to species that (anecdotally) have an that of Roundup CT® treatment in 1993. allelopathic effect on SLN. These With the use of simazine in lupin and eucalypts allegedly produce a toxin to chickpea crops, and the future use of which SLN is very sensitive. An officer atrazine tolerant canola, it was hoped that with the South Australian Animal and we would have another tool/product to Plant Control Board at Melrose has deal with this weed. For fanners outside indicated where they planted these trees the district that grow grain or forage the SLN was completely eradicate and sorghums, where atrazine is regularly never recurred. A report on this project is applied, this is useful information. due in 2008.

Weethalle 149 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Horehound Trial 1999 Bob Thompson, NSW DPI West Wyalong

Site Location: Weja Travelling Stock Route. Field Work: Bob Thompson, District Agronomist, West Wyalong. Alan Umbers, Central West Farming Systems, Trundle. Aim: To demonstrate herbicide(s) and timing of application options for the control of horehound. Spraying Date: Autumn 9 July 1999 Spring 23 Sept 1999 Spraying Stage: Adult plants. Spraying Methods: Herbicides applied with a hand held boom, 100 litres of water per hectare. Plot Size: 4m x 10m Soil Type: Red clay soil Assessment Date: 8 November 1999

Ungarie Rainfall 1999 (mm) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total (mm) 5 8 50 12 11 29 35 57 33 112 38 161 585

Seasonal Conditions sprayed in early July after a fall of 37mm; January and March was wetter than the remainder of the winter had very normal, 20mm in April allowed some good falls of rain. The second spraying crops to be sown early. May and June had had to be delayed until 5mm fell on the a few light showers but was considered to 17th September. October was be fairly dry. The trial was finally exceptionally wet.

Treatment Plants Plants % Kill Season per Plot Killed per Plot Control 76 0 0 3.0 L/ha MCPA amine 500® Autumn 83 81 98 3.0 L/ha MCPA amine 500® Spring 88 1 1% 2.0 L/ha Roundup CT® + 600 ml/ha Agral 600 Autumn 73 0 0 2.0 L/ha Roundup CT® + 600 ml/ha Agral 600 Spring 77 0.7 1 1.5 L/ha RoundupCT® + 7 g/ha Ally® + 600 Autumn 79 0.3 0 ml/ha Agral 600

1.5 L/ha Roundup CT® + 7 g/ha Ally® + 600 Spring 74 0.3 0.5% ml/ha Agral 600

1.5 L/ha Roundup CT® + 700 ml/ha 2,4-D Autumn 74 0 0 Ester® + 600 ml/ha Agral

1.5 L/ha Roundup CT® + 700 ml/ha 2,4-D Spring 78 1.3 1.5% Ester® + 600 ml/ha Agral

150 Weethalle 2004-2005 CWFS Research Compendium

Comments the competition from the high i) The trial was replicated and pegged out population of established grass in such a way to ensure there were weeds. sufficient plots with an average of 2 horehound plants per square metre. Recommended Horehound ii) The most effective treatment was 3.0 Management litres/hectare of MCPA amine Treat infested pastoral areas with 3.0 applied in the late autumn, which litres MCPA amine per hectare in the killed 98% of horehound population, autumn. Apply the MCPA with 100 litres which is consistent with current label of water per hectare. Horehound can be a registration. Timing the application difficult plant to wet. A wetting adjuvant to coincide with the plants' autumn may be of assistance. carbohydrate accruement is fundamental for control. The spring Maintain grasses to prevent the application of MCPA amine in establishment of seedlings. Burn the contrast was a complete failure; this infested area the following year, in early was consistent with trial 8846 at autumn, to destroy as much of the seed Glen Innes in 1988. The spring bank as possible. Respray the area later in application of MCPA amine caused the autumn to control any subsequent severe foliar damage, but a month horehound germinations with MCPA later and following 120mm of rain all amine. plants produced new growth. Future Research iii) All treatments involving Roundup i) There is merit in evaluating the uses of CT® (Glyphosate 450g/litre) were crop oils to improve the application spectacular in their failure to control of MCPA amine at the 3.0 litre/ha horehound. The addition of Ally® or rate and at lower rates. 2, 4-D Ester 800© increased the severity of foliar injury but did not ii) There is no label rate specifically for improve control. seedling plants. 3.0L MCPA/ha will iv) While the Glyphosate did not kill any obviously kill them, but is it of the horehound plants, it worthwhile establishing an effective successfully killed all the wild oats lower rate that can be incorporated and annual ryegrass in the plots. The into a management program. removal of the annual grasses resulted in extensive horehound seedling germination. According to John Weiss, Research Agronomist of the Keith Turnbull Institute, horehound is relatively "soft seeded" (80% soft) and most of the seed is close to the soil surface (top 5mm). While the germination of horehound was not even within the plot, areas of the plot contained 200 to 300 seedlings per square metre. There was no germination of horehound seedlings in the plots where MCPA amine was used, most likely due to

Weethalle 151 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

WIRRINYA

REGIONAL SITE

SNAPSHOT OF WIRRINYA RESULTS

• P fertiliser at 20 kg P/ha should be applied to wheat, canola and field peas. • There is no yield increase in wheat from applied Zn. • N fertiliser (50 kg N/ha is adequate) is best applied as split application at sowing and topdressed. • Sowing into dry soil on time often produces lower yields than sowing later with moisture. • Wheat should be sown at a rate to give 100-120 plants/m2. • Chlorsulfuron herbicides may cause yield decreases. The addition of P and/or Zn will not diminish the damage.

Wirrinya 153 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

CWFS Regional Atlas (1998 - 2003) WIRRINYA

Soil information for the yield. An application of half the N at Wirrinya area sowing and the rest topdressed gave Soils in the Wirrinya area are either red the best result- 100kgN/ha (1999). soils (usually red clay loams with a clay • Phosphorus (P) fertiliser gave content of about 30%) or grey clays (with significant yield increases in canola. a clay content of 35-40%). Recommended P rate is 20 kg P/ha but applied so there is no direct The red soils have an acidic surface (0-10 contact with seed (1999). cm pHca 4.5 - 6) usually with an alkaline • There was no wheat yield response to subsoil. The surface soil's effective cation the application of zinc (Zn) fertilisers. exchange capacity (eCEC) is usually from Soil Zn was considered low at 0.4 6 to 15 meq/100g. The phosphorus status ppm. Average wheat yield 2.63 t/ha of the soil is generally medium (Colwell P (1999). 20 - 45 mg/kg). The organic carbon status • In canola, any N fertiliser (applied as is low (0.5 - 1.5%) which is typical of urea) is better than none. It doesn't soils in low rainfall environments. matter whether the N is applied at sowing or topdressed before rain. The grey clays usually have a neutral 50kg N/ha gave as good canola yields surface soil pH (0-10 cm pHca around 7) as 100kg N/ha. Av. yield 1.36 t/ha with an alkaline subsoil. The surface soil's (2000). effective cation exchange capacity • In Field Peas there was a phosphorus (eCEC) ranges from 15 to 35 meq/100g, (P) response in yield to addition of P higher than for the red soils because extra at rates above 20 kg P/ha (average clay increases the eCEC. The phosphorus yield 2.16 t/ha). (2000). status of the soil is generally medium to • In wheat there was no response in high (Colwell P 30 - 45 mg/kg). The yield to application of Zn fertiliser organic carbon status is low (0.5 - 2.5%; (av. yield 4.47 t/ha and 14.2% often a little higher than the red soils) protein). (2000). which is typical of soils in low rainfall environments. Agronomic Trials • Canola sown in early May into a dry Trial Results for the Wirrinya seedbed, produced lower yields than area that sown in mid-June into moisture. All conclusions given are from trials Rainbow and Oscar were the highest written up in full in the CWFS Annual yielding varieties (1999). Research Compendiums from 1998 -2004. • Janz wheat generally out-yielded For more details, please see the relevant Wollaroi (Durum wheat). (1999). article. The year of the trial is given in • Trials to determine the correct sowing brackets after the conclusion. rate for H45 (since it tillers less, it was suggested that the sowing rate be Fertiliser Trials increased) showed that there was no • Nitrogen (N) fertiliser can be applied as need to change the sowing rate. Sowing rate should be aiming at urea at sowing or by topdressing 2 without penalty to wheat or canola giving 100-120 plants/m after

154 Wirrinya CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

germination for best yield results yield increase to higher applications (2001). of P. If soil P was high, there was • Controlling a low level infection of little yield increase with higher stripe rust in the highly susceptible applications of P). variety H45 did not provide yield or • If soil Colwell P is less than 30 ppm quality benefits in dry spring (or 30 mg/kg) then 20 kg P/ha applied conditions (2003). as fertiliser should give a yield increase (compared with lower P Sulphonylurea herbicides, phosphorus, fertiliser application). zinc and wheat trials (2001-2003) • There were no yield increases to • Chlorsulfuron herbicides (e.g. applied zinc (Zn) fertiliser. Glean©) were found to decrease • P and Zn did not change any yield wheat yields at some sites under some penalty suffered because of seasonal conditions. chlorsulfuron herbicide damage in • The effect of phosphorus (P) wheat (i.e. you can't add extra P or Zn application on wheat yield was to get rid of the damage) correlated with soil P levels (i.e. if soil P was low, then there was a large

Table 1: Wirrinya Rainfall 1998 - 2004. Year J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann 1998 47 17 0 72 22 54 71 82 86 33 38 5 527 1999 34 37 46 15 51 23 58 70 44 59 29 130 596 2000 9 45 50 52 95 33 22 55 12 35 114 2 524 2001 9 42 40 12 12 52 22 22 35 48 14 6 314 2002 3 16 14 26 20 18 16 21 43 0 0 2 179 2003 23 90 0 17 8 38 63 68 15 42 31 56 451 2004 8 13 0 13 18 61 26 39 43 38 37 30 326 Climate Information for the lowest annual rainfall on record was 162 Wirrinya area mm in 1944. Rainfall The rainfall for Caragabal has been Frost recorded for 103 years, from 1902 to Frost information for the Wirrinya area is 2004. Caragabal is the closest recording taken from the Caragabal data as it is the station to Wirrinya. Using this historical closest location. This data (Table 2) indicates that a frost can occur up until the information a monthly rainfall record for th Caragabal (the Wirrinya area) can be seen 9 September one year out of five. In one in Figure 1. The Wirrinya area receives year out of ten, a frost will occur as late as the 28th September and in one year out of its highest rainfall in summer and spring th and its lowest rainfall in autumn. The twenty a frost can occur up until the 11 month receiving the most rainfall is October. To use this information, you October, whilst the month with the lowest would be best to sow at a time late enough rainfall is April. so that wheat will flower after the end of September each year. The average annual rainfall for Wirrinya is 481 mm, with a standard deviation of Temperature 141 mm. The highest annual rainfall on Averages of each month's maximum and record was 989 mm in 1950, whilst the minimum daily air temperatures for the Wirrinya area are shown in Table 3.

Wirrinya 155 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 1: Monthly rainfall data for Wirrinya.

Table 2: Frost information for the region (taken from B.J. Scott and D. L. Liu)

Location The dates of last frost for a probability of... 20% 10% 5% Alectown (Goonumbla) 11 September 29 September 12 October Condobolin 3 September 22 September 4 October Euabalong 31 August 18 September 1 October Gunning Gap (Bogan Gate) 7 September 26 September 8 October Merriwagga (Hillston) 29 August 17 September 29 September Nyngan 25 August 12 September 23 September Rankins Springs 8 September 27 September 10 October Tottenham 6 September 24 September 6 October Ungarie 8 September 27 September 10 October Weethalle (Yalgogrin North) 17 September 6 October 19 October Wirrinya (Caragabal) 9 September 28 September 11 October

Table 3: Maximum and minimum monthly temperatures for Wirrinya.

Temp (°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D Minimum 16.9 17.4 14.1 9.7 6.5 3.4 2.2 3.6 5.2 8.6 11.4 14.5 Maximum 32.6 32.4 29.5 23.8 18.6 15.1 14.1 16.1 18.8 23.6 27.3 31.1 Acknowledgements and Gibson, the Crop Evaluation Unit staff (Neil Durning and Tim McNee), Thanks statisticians, those who have spoken This work would not have been possible at field days. without the support of all involved with • CWFS staff who have assisted with CWFS - members, staff, partners and these trials: James Deeves, Rob sponsors. Sanderson, Allan L’Estrange, Daryl Reardon. At the Wirrinya site thanks to the following people for their work, time, • David Harbison, Hi Fert, who conducted trials with us. effort and support (both past and present) • All involved with the Mulyandry site • CWFS Technical Officers: Linda that is now closed and other such Stockman and Sharon Taylor. sites, particularly B. Wythes, Richard • NSW DPI District Agronomist: Ken Maslin and James Clifton. Motley and Mikala Naughton. • Site Coordinator: Andrew Rice • Co-operators: Kim and Wendy • NSW DPI staff who have assisted Muffett with these trials, particularly Greg

156 Wirrinya CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

• Regional Site Chairman: Matt Duff Forbes TAFE, Jim Laycock (Pivot), • Regional Site Committee members. Michael Coote (Phosyn), Grain Corp • CWFS Major Sponsor: GRDC Grower Services, Hi Fert, NSW • CWFS Regional Sites' Sponsor: Oilseeds Research Fund. Grain Growers Association • Wirrinya Sponsors: Parkes To all who have attended Field Days, Prescription Farming Centre (Pivot), meetings, talks, seminars and other

PWA Grower Services, NSW DPI, events; thank you for your support.

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CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Subsoils Project

Subsoils Project 159 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Combating Sodic Subsoils -Is plant growth affected by sodic subsoils?

Catherine Evans and Daryl Reardon, CWFS

Key Points • Under the current dry conditions there is limited water in the subsoil which makes this project difficult. • Soil sampling throughout the year on various paddocks showed plants using what little subsoil moisture was available. • Since subsoils were not very wet, it is unlikely that the sodic nature of the subsoils was expressed.

Background Information dispersive nature of sodic soils cause soil The dominant soil types used for dryland pores to become blocked which restricts cropping in central-western NSW are the water infiltration and aeration of the soils, red earths (Kandosols) and red brown which in turn also affects plant growth. earths (Chromosols); gradational and There have been studies conducted on duplex soils often with sodic clay sodic soils in central-western NSW - one subsoils. Central western NSW soils have study investigating dryland cropping soils less hostile subsoils than areas in Victoria, (Valzano, Murphy and Greene, 2001, South Australia, Queensland and other Aust. J. Soil Res. 39: 1307 - 1331.) and areas of NSW. another investigating sodic irrigated soils (McKenzie et al, 2002, Aust. J. Exp. Sodicity is the major problem associated Agric. 42: 363-368.) - but they have with the subsoils of central-western NSW. focussed primarily of surface issues. Previous research in the region (McKenzie et al., 1993, Aust. J. Soil Res. 31: 839- Some soils in central-western NSW also 868) has documented that NSW has far have increasing salinity with depth (80-90 above the national average of sodic soils cm, 55% were < 0.1 dS/m; using criterion and estimated that sodic soils cover 47% that > 0.1 dS/m affects salt-sensitive of the state. They estimated that over 80% plants; Evans et al, 2003). The salinity of soils in NSW central mixed farming issue for subsoils in central-western NSW systems had sodic sub-soils. They also is quite minor compared with subsoils in suggested that yield increases of up to Victoria and South Australia (P. 200% could be expected after amelioration Rengasamy, pers. comm.). Central- of sodic soils. A more conservative western NSW does not have a problem estimate came from a collation of soil test with sub-soil acidity (< 5% of soils have results across CW NSW as part of an acidic sub-soils; data from Evans et al., earlier project and estimated that about 2003), nor toxic concentrations of 50% of sub-soils in CW NSW are sodic aluminium or boron (as with Victoria and below 60 cm (Evans, Bowman and Scott, South Australia). 2003, 11th Australian Agronomy Conference). The effect of sodic subsoils on crop production has not been quantified, even Sodic sub-soils can cause a restriction to though estimates have been suggested. In plant root growth and water uptake. The the 2001 growing season CWFS, through the Crop Monitoring Program, identified

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that some crops in the region were not subsoils but with only half the amount of reaching their water limited yield sodium present as in the Mine paddock. potential. In some circumstances the The Parkes Silo paddock is similar to the reasons for this could be identified but Tank paddock but also has an acidic there were many crops where there surface soil to 30 cm, with aluminium appeared to be no obvious reason for this (Al%) almost at a concentration where low yield. In some cases, soil constraints, plant growth may be affected. particularly subsoil constraints may be the issue. The Condobolin and Forbes paddocks have sodic subsoils and some salinity at Methods depth. The Forbes site has a heavier clay Crop and soil monitoring was conducted soil than the Condobolin paddock. in farmers' paddocks (seven paddocks) across central-western NSW in 2004. The seven paddocks were monitored at These paddocks were identified from four times over the year gathering previous work and after discussion with information to determine crop and soil the farmers. These particular paddocks relationships. The seven sites were were chosen because of their varying located at Tottenham (2 sites), Parkes (3 ranges of sodic subsoils (Table 1) and sites), Forbes and Condobolin. In 2004 other possible constraints. The spread of five of the seven sites were cropped and paddocks across the region was also the other two were pastures. Sampling considered. dates were June/July prior to sowing where soil samples were collected to The Tottenham soils are quite benign determine initial soil moisture. August soils, with some sodium at depth but not sampling was to measure the number of at a concentration that it is thought would plants/m2. Sampling in October was at be detrimental to plant growth. There is about mid-late tillering and measured some salt at depth in the Tottenham Back plant growth and soil moisture and noted paddock but this is not thought to cause weeds and other potential problems. The much damage to most plants (salt fourth sampling occurred before harvest sensitive plants may be affected below 50 on all sites where plant cuts to determine cm). The Tottenham Back paddock has yield were taken and soils were sampled more clay in the soil at depth than the to measure soil moisture after the Tottenham Spring paddock (indicated by growing season. the higher eCEC of the back paddock). Soil moistures were measured in an oven The Parkes soils offer a range of issues. at 110°C for at least 48 hours and are The Parkes Mine paddock has salinity at calculated on a percentage basis. Grain depth and salt sensitive plants may be was threshed from the hand cuts to affected. There is also sodic subsoils in determine yield. Fanners paddock records this paddock, so we have a combination of gave yield, protein, screenings and their sodicity and salinity. This paddock also impressions of the year and the crop has quite a heavy clay subsoil. The Parkes perfonnance. Tank paddock has some sodic

Subsoils Project 161 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 1. Average soil chemistry results of the 7 paddocks prior to monitoring in 2004.

EC pHCa eCEC Ca Mg Na K% Al Ca:Mg (dS/m) meq/100g % % % % Tottenham - Back 0-10 cm 0.09 5.2 10.2 60.2 26.0 1.0 12.7 0.1 2.3 10-20 cm 0.05 5.3 9.6 55.5 32.0 2.7 9.6 0.2 1.7 20-30 cm 0.06 5.7 15.4 48.4 39.2 5.8 6.6 0.0 1.2 30-40 cm 0.08 6.4 19.0 47.1 40.0 7.3 5.6 0.0 1.2 40-50 cm 0.13 7.3 21.8 48.5 39.0 7.5 5.0 0.0 1.2 50-60 cm 0.24 7.9 23.6 49.2 36.8 9.6 4.4 0.0 1.3 Tottenham - Spring 0-10 cm 0.12 5.2 9.4 70.0 17.2 0.9 12.0 0.3 4.1 10-20 cm 0.07 5.1 8.2 68.8 19.6 1.1 9.9 0.6 3.5 20-30 cm 0.05 5.3 7.4 66.5 23.5 2.4 7.3 0.3 2.8 30-40 cm 0.05 5.7 10.2 60.6 30.3 4.8 4.3 0.0 2.0 40-50 cm 0.06 6.2 13.7 55.9 33.9 7.3 2.9 0.0 1.7 50-60 cm 0.09 6.7 16.2 51.7 36.2 9.7 2.5 0.0 1.4 Parkes – Silo 0-10 cm 0.15 4.6 8.2 58.8 21.7 3.3 12.4 3.9 2.7 10-20 cm 0.05 4.6 6.9 58.4 27.5 2.2 7.0 4.9 2.1 20-30 cm 0.04 4.9 5.4 54.7 34.1 3.3 5.2 2.8 1.6 30-40 cm 0.06 5.5 11.2 36.8 53.9 7.0 2.3 0.0 0.7 40-50 cm 0.08 5.8 17.4 31.1 58.6 8.5 1.8 0.0 0.5 50-60 cm 0.08 5.8 20.7 29.0 60.4 9.0 1.6 0.0 0.5 Parkes - Tank 0-70 cm 0.07 5.0 10.6 69.9 18.1 1.5 10.4 0.1 3.9 10-20 cm 0.05 5.1 8.8 64.7 25.1 1.9 7.3 0.9 2.6 20-30 cm 0.04 5.8 9.5 53.2 36.4 5.4 5.1 0.0 1.5 30-40 cm 0.06 6.6 18.0 44.5 43.8 8.0 3.8 0.0 1.0 40-50 cm 0.07 6.7 19.9 41.9 45.6 9.0 3.5 0.0 0.9 50-60 cm 0.08 7.3 21.0 39.8 46.4 10.5 3.3 0.0 0.9 Parkes - Mine 0-10 cm 0.10 4.9 10.3 52.7 32.3 5.0 9.0 1.0 1.6 10-20 cm 0.11 6.6 22.5 43.5 44.0 9.5 3.0 0.0 1.0 20-30 cm 0.34 7.9 31.2 41.5 44.8 11.6 2.0 0.0 0.9 30-40 cm 0.45 8.3 32.0 39.9 44.3 14.0 1.8 0.0 0.9 40-50 cm 0.59 8.5 30.7 34.7 47.0 16.6 1.6 0.0 0.7 50-60 cm 0.64 8.6 31.7 32.7 47.4 18.3 1.6 0.0 0.7 Condobolin 0-70 cm 0.04 4.7 7.9 52.5 29.6 2.8 12.0 3.0 1.8 10-20 cm 0.05 5.2 9.6 47.3 35.8 8.8 7.6 0.4 1.3 20-30 cm 0.08 6.2 15.1 38.1 43.3 13.1 5.6 0.0 0.9 30-40 cm 0.12 6.7 18.5 33.3 46.5 15.1 5.1 0.0 0.7 40-50 cm 0.19 7.2 22.0 31.5 47.8 15.9 4.8 0.0 0.7 50-60 cm 0.34 7.9 23.4 31.8 47.0 16.7 4.5 0.0 0.7 Forbes 0-10 cm 0.10 5.8 26.4 42.1 50.6 4.3 3.0 0.0 0.8 10-20 cm 0.18 5.7 28.4 41.2 50.6 5.9 2.4 0.0 0.8 20-30 cm 0.18 6.3 30.4 42.1 49.2 6.9 1.8 0.0 0.9 30-40 cm 0.14 6.8 32.8 41.7 48.2 8.6 1.6 0.0 0.9 40-50 cm 0.17 7.0 29.2 38.7 48.3 11.1 1.9 0.0 0.8 50-60 cm 0.21 7.2 30.1 37.8 47.5 12.7 2.0 0.0 0.8

162 Subsoils Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Results and Discussion Tottenham. These results are shown in The growing season in 2004 across Table 3. central western NSW started quite late with sowing rains not occurring in most Soil moisture results places until May. The season was quite Soil moisture was quite low over much of dry towards spring when grain fill was the year due to the dry seasonal occurring, which reduced yield in many conditions. There was little subsoil places across the central west. Rainfall is moisture at any of the sites. Figure 1 (a - shown in Table 2. g) give an indication of the soil water and the use of that soil water through the Crop yield results growing season. Paddock yields have been obtained for 3 crop paddocks - Forbes, Parkes and

Table 2. Rainfall at some of the localities. J F M A M J J A S O N D Ann Forbes 51 73 22 24 32 58 21 32 44 57 44 116 574 Parkes 150 70 23 3 25 54 29 42 30 51 44 67 588 Tottenham 120 29 13 16 42 32 27 31 27 50 42 42 471 Condobolin 90 32 8 2 18 47 14 32 27 53 31 46 400

Table 3. Paddock information, and yield results where relevant, for the 7 paddocks in 2004. Location Crop Variety Yield Protein Screenings Plans for (t/ha) (%) {%) 2005 Forbes Field Excell 0.25 - - Barley peas Condobolin Barley Unicorn not harvested Parkes Tank Wheat Babbler 1.82 11.7 2.9 Lucerne Parkes Mine Pasture grasses & clover Parkes Silo Pasture grasses & clover Tottenham Back Wheat Strzelecki 2.9 13.9 1.8 - Tottenham Spring Wheat Babbler ?

Subsoils Project 163 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 1 (a-g): Soil moisture at 3 times through the growing season for the seven paddocks sampled in 2004.

164 Subsoils Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Subsoils Project 165 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

In Figure 1 a - g) there is evidence of moved to the left for the entire depth water loss from the soil throughout the sampled). Just before harvest, there is season (shown by the movement of the 3 more soil water than at the previous lines). Rainfall did occur throughout the sampling (the squares have moved to the year and plants grew, so this water loss is right of the triangles). This indicates assumed to be plant uptake. At some sites recharge of the soil profile (usually it is obvious that there was little moisture rainfall) and the rainfall in Table 1 shows uptake below a particular depth (usually that Tottenham had 92 mm rainfall in below 45 cm), which is often where the October and November. So this is the soil texture changes to a clay in these likely cause of the recharge. Plant uptake duplex soils. This lack of soil water uptake of this rainfall would have been minimal may because plant roots do not extend into as the wheat had largely finished growing this depth, water below this depth may be by this time. unavailable for plant uptake (soil water can be attached to the soil too tightly for Figure 1 b) Once again water is used from plant roots to draw the water out) or plants the entire profile through season. There is were unable to use this water for some less recharge in this paddock than in the other reason. previous paddock (the squares sit over the triangles; Fig. 1 b). This may be because If we look at each figure and see how this paddock received less rainfall than water is used through the season we may the previous paddock, or the plants were have a better understanding of water use still growing when the rain fell and so and soil issues. used some of the rainfall, or there was more runoff on this paddock and less Figure 1 a) Water is used throughout the went into the soil profile, or some other whole profile. The circle symbols indicate reason. the start of the season and water is at about 8% in the surface and 17% at depth. The These two Tottenham soils (Fig. 1 a and triangles pointing downwards indicate the b) indicate that in the 2004 season, the second soil sampling period at mid-late plants growing on these paddocks had tillering (September-October) and there is little problem extracting soil water to a less water in the soil (5-14%) throughout depth of 80 cm. (It's nice that we called the whole profile (the line has these soils benign at the start!)

166 Subsoils Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

give a better indication of whether this Figure 1 c) The Parkes Silo paddock had lack of water uptake below 30 cm is a some water used at depths below 45 cm sodic subsoil constraint or a soil problem. but water is not extracted as easily as the previous paddocks. This may be because Figure 1 J) There was not much soil this paddock was a pasture paddock and water in this profile and after 5 very dry so there may have been fewer plants with seasons this is not surprising. There was deep rooting ability to extract water to not much soil water extracted probably depth, compared with a cereal crop (as at because of the lack of water in the soil. Tottenham). There is some recharge of Plant roots, and growth, would have been soil water before harvest but the pastures affected by the dry soil and the dry would have still been using water, unlike conditions (crop not harvested). The a crop which would have been harvested. minimal water uptake below 40 cm may I would not like to say that there is a be a feature of the dry conditions and not problem with this soil as the soil water is a soil problem itself. A wetter year would low to begin with and it may just be the give a better indication of this. texture, and pasture, that is limiting any water extraction and not a soil problem. A Figure 1 g) Throughout the season water wetter year would give a better indication. was extracted from the surface 35 cm. There was little soil water used below Figure 1 d) The Parkes Tank paddock this depth. This paddock was chosen to had water at an almost equal soil water be included in this project because the percentage through the soil profile at soil is saline and sodic and the paddock sowing. This soil water was used, more uses raised beds to overcome these soil from the surface than from at depth, problems. The soil is a heavy clay prone throughout the season. Plant roots are to water logging. Some years ago the more dense at the soil surface and so this fanner developed raised beds to improve is not unexpected. There is water used at his crop yields. It appears that the plants depth, so the roots are getting down into are utilising the beds for much of their the soil profile and extracting water. soil water uptake as there is little soil There is recharge before harvest and this water extracted from below 35 cm. is reflected in the 95 mm rainfall seen in Table 1. There more recharge in this Conclusion paddock than either of the other Parkes The dry year in 2003 meant that there paddocks. was little subsoil water available for plant uptake. This meant that little could be Figure 1 e) The Parkes Mine paddock determined about the effect of sodic was also a pasture paddock. There was subsoils on plant growth. little water extracted below 30 cm, which may be due to lack of plant roots below Ackowledgements this depth. It may also be due to the We would like to thank the 5 co-operators heavier clay soil and more sodicity at who allowed us access to their properties depth in this paddock than the other throughout the year. We would also like to Parkes paddocks. There was also little acknowledge the contribution of the late recharge of the profile with the rainfall in Greg Webb to this work. Greg was an October and November, probably because active member of CWFS who died plants were growing and using the soil suddenly in 2004. We would like to water. Once again, a wetter season and dedicate this paper to the memory of Greg deeper rooted plants, would Webb.

Subsoils Project 167 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

LIRAC - Long-term changes of a sodic soil 14-years after lime and gypsum application. Catherine Evans, CWFS.

Key Points

• Changes in soil chemistry were found 14 years after application of high rates of lime and gypsum. • The source of Ca (lime, gypsum or lime + gypsum) had no significant impact on the long term displacement of Na hy Ca. • The practical message is that any source of Ca, applied at an equivalent Ca rate, gives equal long term benefits in Na displacement. • Soil chemistry did not change below 30 cm depth. • Plant yields have been low due to drought. In 2002 there was no significant difference in plant growth after different ameliorants. This result may not be true and may have occurred because of the low yields.

Background Information fanners began asking questions about the The LIRAC soil amelioration trial was old LIRAC trial. It appeared that the data set up in 1988 in conjunction with NSW was still available, previous staff seemed Agriculture staff at Condobolin. The trial keen to assist and so a 1 year project was was designed to investigate the effects of proposed to gather the old data, collect different soil ameliorants at different some new data and to determine the long- rates on sodic soils. There were 5 term effects of the soil ameliorants. This treatments; project was funded in mid-2001. i) nil; ii) 2.5 t/ha gypsum applied annually; Methods iii) 10 t/ha gypsum; When we began to investigate the old iv) 4.8 t/ha lime and data we found that some of the data had v) 5 t/ha gypsum combined with 2.4 been lost due to a computer malfunction t/ha lime. and poor storage. Some of the data was available, just not as much as we had The rates were calculated so as to give an hoped. equivalent input of calcium (Ca) on each ameliorant treatment. In the early years In the LIRAC paddock there was an there were also two irrigation treatments - exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP; a raised beds and border check - to measure of sodicity) and electrical investigate if irrigation method affected conductivity (EC; a measure of salinity) ameliorant effectiveness (these results are gradient running across the trial from east not presented here). The trial was run until to west, so that all plots in replicate 3 1992, when soil samples were collected were higher than those in replicate 1. This but never analysed and the staff on the was not discovered until after the trial project all left the district. was set up. We have overcome this problem by comparing changes over In 1999 a new soils project was funded by time, rather than changes between GRDC at Condobolin and the local replicates. In some cases, changes

168 Subsoils Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

between replicates have been compared two ways: the absolute change in and found to be significant, meaning that exchangeable Ca (Caex) and Na (Naex), the difference between treatments is far and the change in percentage terms (Na% greater than any differences across the and Ca%) as a proportion of the effective site. cation exchange capacity (eCEC). Limestone has the additional benefit of The treatment with 2.5 t/ha gypsum lifting soil pH and increasing eCEC, and applied annually was only applied for 2 therefore increasing the soil's capacity to years, when the original plan had been for retain Ca. 4 annual applications. So instead of all Ca rates being equivalent, the Ca of this For the benefit of easy comparison, we treatment is half that of the others. will ignore the annually applied gypsum treatment for now, as it has less Ca than Many people involved in the trial the other treatments and makes for a more expressed concern as to the application confused explanation of results. method of lime and gypsum, saying that the middle of each plot was spread 14 years after application, all ameliorants heavily and the edges quite thinly. To (L, L+G, G) lowered Naex and Na% in the overcome this problem we soil sampled top 10 cm of soil compared with the towards the centre of each plot but control soil (see table at the end of the straddling the mid-line. paper). In order, the effect was G had a greater effect than L+G which had a Soil sampling occurred in March 2002 greater effect than L, as might be and 5 cores were taken from each plot to expected, but after 14 years the differences a depth of 90 cm. Each core was among the 3 ameliorants were not sectioned into 10 cm depths to 30 cm and statistically significant. Conversely, L had then 20 cm depths until 90 cm, giving 6 the best residual effect on Caex in the top sections per core, and these sections were 10 cm of soil, followed by L+G, with G bulked for each plot. Soil was dried at equal to the control. However since 40°C and sent to the Victorian State limestone raised the pH of the soil Chemistry Laboratory for analysis, significantly compared with the other following the methods used in 1988- treatments, the eCEC was also increased 1990. Soils were analysed for pH (both by liming and the Ca% was not water and CaCl2), electrical conductivity significantly different among the three (EC), exchangeable cations using the ameliorants (at 53-55 Ca%). The 3 Tucker method and Walkely-Black ameliorants lowered Mg% relative to the organic carbon. control (41% down to 36 - 38%) and raised the Ca:Mg ratio above that of the At the end of the 2002 season, plants control (from 1.23 up to 1.47 - 1.57). were cut for a dry matter analysis so that However these Mg effects are small and we could have some biological data to see unlikely to be of biological significance let if the changes in soil chemistry were alone of practical value. reflected in differences in plant growth. In the 10-20 cm soil layer the EC Results (saltiness of the soil water) was The objective in applying limestone (L) marginally decreased equally by the 3 and/or gypsum (G) is to improve soil ameliorants. Naex and Na% were also structure by displacing sodium (Na) from, lowered relative to the control, but there and adding Ca to, exchange sites in the was no difference among the three soil. This replacement is measured in ameliorants. Similarly, Ca% was

Subsoils Project 169 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

increased by the same amount by the three Unfortunately the season of 2002 did not ameliorants and Mg% was decreased allow us to establish the biological slightly by them. significance of these residual effects on soil properties. It is our hope that adequate At 20-30 cm depth the Na% was plant data will be collected soon to give decreased and the Ca% increased more practical application to these soil significantly and equally by the 3 results. ameliorants. The project is effectively incomplete and There were no effects below 30 cm depth. at this stage we have few conclusions to offer. The only real conclusion we have is At the end of the 2002 season, plants were that changes in soil chemistry have been cut for a dry matter analysis to determine brought about by high rates of application if these changes in soil chemistry were of a soil ameliorant, regardless of the reflected in differences in plant growth choice of ameliorant (lime, gypsum or between treatments. The 2002 season was lime and gypsum). Without the associated extremely dry and no irrigation water was plant data, we can reach no other available, so the wheat was very poor and conclusions. patchy. No significant differences in yield were found between the treatments due to Recommendations the low yields and the high variability. It Heavy rates of lime and gypsum was deemed that these samples were application produce equivalent soil unsatisfactory and plant sampling should chemistry changes in the long-term, on occur when the season ensured good plant these slightly acidic, sodic and saline clay growth. This has not occurred. soils along the Lachlan River at Condobolin. Conclusion After 14 years the beneficial effects of the Further research 3 ameliorants were still evident in the soil We question as to why the soil chemistry and had penetrated to 30 cm depth. The changes have only moved to 30 cm depth - source of Ca (L, G or L+G) had no similar to the movement of lime reported significant impact on the long term in long-term soil acidity trials. It has been displacement of Na by Ca. The presence reported that gypsum is more soluble and of alkali (lime) in the ameliorant (L and moves more readily than lime but these L+G) had a small effect on the retention of results indicate little difference between Ca in the surface soil due to the increase in the two products. Further work into the ECEC with pH (ECEC = 2.74pHca, nature of the movement of gypsum would r2=0.70, P=0.08). be beneficial, particularly some long-term movement studies in other locations. The practical message is that any source of Ca, applied at an equivalent Ca rate, gives equal long term benefits in Na displacement. These benefits are measurable 14 years after application. The choice between limestone and gypsum as ameliorant for sodic soils therefore rests on short term results (McKenzie et al, 2002) and cost.

170 Subsoils Project LIRAC 2002 SOIL DATA SUMMARY - different letters at each depth, for each chemical property, indicate a significant difference between treatments (P < 0.05) (NOTE: This table shows the data for the annual gypsum application treatment (gyp2). The text did not refer to this treatment).

pHw pHC EC TSS OM oc N S Ca Mg Na K eCEC Ca:Mg Ca% Mg% Na% K% 0-10 an b b ns ns ns ns ns a ns b ns a a C b Nil 7.28 6.23 0.08 0.028 1.72 0.89 0.09 3.33 9.9 8.28 1.25 1.00 20.5 1.23 49 41.0 6.5 5.33" ns ns c c c a c c a a a Lime 7.57 6.55 0.07 0.023 1.63 0.83 0.09 3.33 11.7 7.72 0.97 0.97 21.3 1.57 55.3 36.3 5.17 5.00 ab ab ab a ab b bc a Gyp2 6.98 5.98 0.07 0.023 1.73 0.90 0.10 4.00 10.4 8.05 0.95 1.07 20.5 1.33 51.3 39.5 5.17 5.67" a a a a bc bc 37.7ab a b Gyp 6.83 5.88 0.07 0.025 1.80 0.92 0.10 4.00 9.95 6.98 0.77 1.12 19 1.47 53.3 4.50 6.50 b b bc a c C 37.3ab a a g+lime 7.15 6.17 0.08 0.023 1.70 0.89 0.09 4.17 11.2 7.65 0.82 1.03 20.7 1.53 54.7 4.33 5.33 5%lsd 0.267 0.257 0.012 0.006 0.24 0.12 0.009 0.922 1.04 1.09 0.240 1.69 2.113 0.153 2.291 2.39 0.925 0.993 10-20 cm ns ns b ns ns ns ns ns ns b ns a a c b ns Nil 8.30 7.18 0.14 0.05 1.13 0.58 0.06 5.83 11.3 9.93 2.57 0.55 24.5 1.17 46.8 41.3 11.0 2.67 ns ns a a c b a a Lime 8.18 7.08 0.11 0.04 1.12 0.57 0.06 4.83 12.0 9.15 1.93 0.50 23.7 1.35 51.2 39.2 8.50 2.67 a a ab b bc a Gyp2 7.90 6.87 0.1 l 0.04 1.17 0.60 0.06 6.33 11.4 9.43 1.77 0.55 23.2 1.25 49.5 41.2 8.00 2.68 a a bc b ab a Gyp 7.92 6.82 0.11 0.04 1.08 0.56 0.06 5.67 11.7 9.07 1.80 0.48 23.2 1.33 51.0 39.7 8.33 2.50 a a bc ah a g+lime 8.00 6.87 0.09 0.03 1.10 0.56 0.06 5.00 11.8 9.25 1.55 0.53 23.0 1.3 51.3b 40.5 7.17 2.83 c 5%lsd 0.36 0.37 0.032 0.01 0.13 0.07 0.007 1.40 1.65 1.17 0.528 0.07 3.11 0.096 1.947 1.63 1.57 0.30 20-30 cm ns ns ns ns ns ns ni b ns ns a DS b ns nil 8.68 7.58 0.17 0.06 0.95 0.50 0.052 11.67 11.l 9.63 3.37 0.43 24.5 1.20 45.8 39.7 14.2 2.0 ns ns ns ns ah h a lime 8.63 7.50 0.14 0.05 0.88 0.45 0.052 10.67 12.0 9.32 2.78 0.42 24.5 1.33 49.2 38.3 11.7 2.0 a ab a gyp2 8.43 7.37 0.15 0.05 0.98 0.50 0.052 11.67 11.5 9.67 2.57 0.47 24.3 1.22 47.8 40.3 11.2 2.3 a ab a gyp 8.52 7.48 0.16 0.05 0.92 0.47 0.050 13.17 11.4 9.33 2.72 0.45 24.0 1.27 48.2 39.5 11.7 2.0 a b a G+lime 8.47 7.32 0.12 0.04 0.93 0.47 0.052 8.67 11.8 9.57 2.38 0.43 24.3 1.27 49.3 40.2 10.2 2.0 5%lsd 0.24 0.27 0.04 0.013 0.11 0.06 0.004 3.84 1.02 0.90 0.622 0.07 2.19 0.124 2.75 1.93 2.052 0.32 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Low Rainfall

Collaboration

Project

Low Rainfall Project 173 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Barley varieties and agronomy Neil Fettell, Nick Moody and Ian Menz NSW Department of Primary Industries, Condobolin and Wagga Wagga

Key Points • Barley trials have been conducted at many of the CWFS regional sites over the last three years. • Barley is a valuable rotation crop as it is not susceptible to many wheat foliar diseases (yellow spot, stripe rust, septoria), suffers less yield loss from root diseases, and competes well with weeds. • Schooner and Gairdner are the preferred malting varieties in central NSW. Schooner generally achieves better quality in the lower rainfall parts of the cropping belt. • Gairdner has proved to be the highest yielding malting variety, but is prone to high screenings under dry conditions, late sowing and excessive nitrogen or seeding rates. • Gairdner has inherently low grain protein concentration, particularly at high yield levels, and inadequate nitrogen nutrition will result in grain too low in protein for acceptance into malting classifications. • Baudin, from Western Australia, and Cowabbie from the Wagga breeding program, are potential alternatives to Gairdner, both having better grain size and lower screenings. • Tilga and Tantangara are high yielding feed lines with Tilga better suited to drier areas. Binalong and Mackay are two new feed lines particularly suited to the northern half of the State.

Introduction Markets for barley Barley variety and agronomy trials have Variety selection and crop management been conducted at many of the CWFS decisions need to be made with the likely regional sites over the last three years, as market in mind. The NSW malting barley part of a GRDC-funded project. The market consists of two classes: findings from those trials form the basis 1. Demand for unprocessed malting for much of this article. barley in Australia's grain export markets, principally China. The very In recent years, both the malt and feed price sensitive Chinese market markets have given good returns. New continues to grow. Demand for varieties with higher yield potential are Schooner in China remains strong, being released and the colour standards with increasing acceptance of both for malting have been eased. Barley can Gairdner and Sloop. This is the major be valuable as a rotation crop with wheat market for NSW grain. particularly in no-till and stubble 2. Demand by domestic maltsters to retention systems as it is not a host for supply malt to domestic brewing most wheat foliar diseases. Its vigorous customers. This market is relatively early growth allows it to compete well static. Schooner is the preferred with weeds, needing lower herbicide rates variety in this market. and restricting weed seed set. It often Schooner and Gairdner remain the needs fewer inputs than wheat. preferred malting varieties for 2003 in central NSW. Grimmett is accepted in the

174 Low Rainfall Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

north and there are small markets for standability, and is of medium-slow other varieties such as Franklin and maturity. Mackay also has strong Baudin which are usually filled by direct straw but is better suited to main and contract. late planting times. Both have good powdery mildew resistance but scald Domestic feed barley demand is likely to susceptibility limits their use further remain steady with high numbers of cattle south. on feed and the continued requirements of ♦ Baudin is a malting quality variety the dairy and intensive livestock from Western Australia. It is seen as a industries. Gairdner alternative with better grain size, lower screenings, quicker Variety performance maturity and shorter straw. It is very ♦ Gairdner has performed particularly susceptible to leaf rust and powdery well across the central region, the long mildew and growers would need to term data (Table 1) showing a yield organise a market outlet. advantage of about 8% over Schooner. ♦ Cowabbie is another possible It has excellent malting quality, and Gairdner alternative, released as feed although a semi-dwarf variety it can but with the possibility of upgrading grow quite tall. It is slower to flower to malt quality, aimed more at the than Schooner and so best suited to southern part of the State. It also has early and main season planting and to better grain size than Gairdner and favourable conditions. good straw strength. Flowering time ♦ Long term results indicate Gairdner falls between Gairdner and Baudin will often fail to meet grain size and it is less susceptible than Baudin specifications for malting quality, to leaf rust, leaf scald and powdery particularly in drier environments mildew. (Table 1). Retention values for ♦ Tulla is an acid soils-tolerant, semi- Gairdner average 69% while dwarf feed variety with good grain screenings average 4.9%, compared to size, straw strength, and disease 78% and 2.8% for Schooner. resistance and yields similar to ♦ Gairdner does have inherently 0.5- Tantangara on non-acid soils. 1.0% lower grain protein content than ♦ VB9926 and Cameo*Arupo 31-04 will Schooner, and this can be magnified be released shortly by the Northern by its higher yield potential. Some breeding program. eastern farmers failed to achieve ♦ The Victorian program is about to malting quality due to excessively low release VB0105, a Franklin-derived grain protein content in 2001. malting line we have tested widely in ♦ Tilga and Tantangara remain as high NSW agronomy trials as a potential yielding feed varieties. Tilga is best Schooner replacement. South suited to the more western areas and Australia is placing major emphasis Tantangara to the east. on CCN resistance with the lines ♦ Binalong and Mackay have also WI3804 and JVJ3586, neither of which performed well as feed varieties and look to have a major place in NSW. are probably best suited to the northern part of the central region. Binalong is short, has very good

Low Rainfall Project 175 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Table 1. Across sites and years analysis for yield and screenings for main season trials (sown after 15 May). Yields are for 1997-2003 and expressed as a percentage of Schooner. Screenings and retention are % by weight and are from 1999-2003 trials.

Variety Yield as Retention Screenings % Schooner (%>2.5 mm) (%<2.2 mm) (no. trials) Baudin 107 (6) 71 4,6 Binalong 110 (62) - - Gairdner 108 (77) 69 4.9 Mackay 108 (39) - - Schooner 100 (77) 78 2.8 Tantangara 106 (78) 68 4.5 Tilga 112 (78) 65 5.4 Tulla 107 (57) 68 4.5 Phenology influence on grain number per ear in two Flowering time is the most important row barleys. Figures 1 and 2 show ear factor in adapting a crop to an emergence dates and time from sowing to environment. Many barley varieties ear emergence for five barley varieties respond to day length as well as to sown on four dates in 2003. temperature, and so their maturity rankings can change with latitude. Development pattern also has a strong

Figure 1. Ear emergence dates for five barley varieties sown at four sowing dates, 2003

Schooner was the quickest to flower at all will vary with season, being a balance sowing dates; Baudin was generally next between achieving sufficient biomass (but quickest followed by Cowabbie and not excessive water use) by flowering and Tantangara while Gairdner was the the risk of frost. Based on the frost risk slowest. The ideal ear emergence date shown in Figure 3, an

176 Low Rainfall Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 2. Days from sowing to ear emergence for five barley varieties at four sowing dates

an acceptable ear emergence period for the end of June, Schooner is able to Dubbo and Condobolin might be between dramatically reduce the time to ear the 20th and 28th of September. If so, emergence whereas Gairdner is not. Schooner should be sown in the last week Where the frost risk is lower (eg of May or very early June whereas Nyngan), varieties such as Schooner can Gairdner should be sown at least two be sown quite early and this is confirmed weeks earlier. If sowing is delayed until by trial results and farmer experience.

Figure 3. Frequency of frosts at three locations in central NSW

Nitrogen nutrition about 11%. At low to moderate yield Protein content is a major determinant of levels, only a small amount of additional malting quality. High protein nitrogen will rapidly increase grain concentrations reduce malt extract. In protein and screenings. Figure 4 shows lower rainfall areas, keeping below the the effect of nitrogen fertiliser on grain 12% upper limit can be difficult, as the plumpness for Schooner and Gairdner nitrogen levels required to obtain sown at two dates at Condobolin. There is maximum yield result in grain proteins of a steady decrease for each variety at

Low Rainfall Project 177 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

each sowing time, and the slope of the dates and lower for the June than the May lines is similar. However, retention was sowing. The allowable limit for malting lower for Gairdner than Schooner at both is 70%.

Figure 4. Effect of fertiliser nitrogen on retention (plump grain) in Gairdner and Schooner at two sowing dates at Condobolin.

Negative yield and grain quality responses t/ha. Additional nitrogen fertiliser, as were also seen in 2004, hardly surprising little as 15 kgN/ha, decreased yield and given the dry conditions. Results from our plump grain and increased screenings in highest yielding site, Alectown, are shown all varieties. However, even at the highest in Figure 5. A deep nitrogen soil test at nitrogen rate Schooner was above the sowing showed that there was 130 kg of 70% retention limit whereas any nitrogen mineral nitrogen in the top 60 cm and this pushed Gairdner below this level (data was sufficient for an average yield across not presented). varieties of 4.2

Figure 5. Effect of nitrogen fertiliser on yield and retention at Alectown, 2004. Values are the mean of four varieties.

Low grain protein can also be a problem as minimum for malting grade has therefore most markets now require barley above been increased to 9.5%. Due to both the 10%. Japanese malt markets have a inherently low grain protein content of preference for 11% protein. The Gairdner and the higher yielding

178 Low Rainfall Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

environments where Gairdner is being screenings. This can be dangerous in grown, appropriate N management for this barley and particularly in Gairdner. In a variety is essential to avoid excessively series of trials across NSW, the yield and low grain protein levels. Current advice, grain quality of existing varieties and based largely on Schooner, is that if more lines close to release are being compared. than 100kg nitrate N per ha is present at Nominal seeding rates from 20 to 100 sowing additional fertiliser N increases the kg/ha are being used, equating to a range risk of excessively high grain protein of 40 to 200 seeds/m2. In 2004, there was levels. However, higher levels of nitrate N a wide variation in establishment may be acceptable, and preferable, for percentage, reflecting difficult planting Gairdner production in the medium to conditions, with site averages ranging high rainfall zone. from 50 to 95% of seed producing a plant. Establishment percentage also Seeding rate decreased with seeding rate at most sites, Higher seeding rates have been advocated and the average decline is evident in in wheat as a way of reducing the number Figure 6. Values declined from 90% at of higher order tillers and hence the lowest seeding rate to 65% at the maintaining grain size and reducing highest.

Figure 6. The response of plant establishment (as a percentage of seeds sown) to seeding rate in 2004. Values are the mean of all varieties at 10 sites.

Yield and grain plumpness data for four more severely stressed sites, yield of the sites are shown in Figure 7. Yield decreased at the highest rates. Grain size, responses were similar across the sites, as indicated by retention, decreased at even though average yields varied from 2 most sites as seeding rate was increased. to 4 t/ha. In all cases there was a big At Alectown, this was largely due to response up to 80 seeds/m2 and a small Gairdner; Schooner and Cowabbie were but continuing response to higher rate. much more stable in grain size. Based on This probably reflects the 2004 seasonal results over a number of years, 2 conditions at these sites, where stress populations of 70-110 plants/m are likely around flowering was followed by milder to be a good compromise for yield and conditions through grain-filling. At some grain quality for crops sown on time.

Low Rainfall Project 179 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 7. Effect of seeding rate on yield and retention (plump grain) at four sites in 2004. Values are the mean of four to six varieties at each site.

size. Gairdner is suited to higher rainfall Conclusions areas and to earlier sowing where its Barley is an important crop in central higher yield potential can be expressed NSW, giving good returns and acting as a with less risk of high screenings. "break" crop for wheat foliar diseases. Excessive nitrogen and high seeding rates Schooner is the malting variety best suited increase the risk of small grain and low to lower rainfall areas and to later sowing retention values in barley. because of its stability of grain

180 Low Rainfall Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005 Dry Solving - Understanding the risks before taking the punt Greg Secomb, Rural Solutions SA, Streaky Bay

Key Messages

• There are many risks to consider when making the decision to dry sow a paddock. • Paddock selection and history will largely influence the success of a dry sown crop.

• The financial commitment to plant a Background crop in unknown seasonal conditions. Many fanners now have large cropping programs and are under pressure to sow • The presence of non wetting sand. as much of their crop as close or as near Possible problems that can be as possible to an optimum sowing date in encountered after dry sowing an effort to avoid yield penalties from late • If a crop is germinating on marginal sowing. When the season is late to break, soil moisture there is a risk of crop farmers are faced with the difficult damage from wind blasting. decision to make a start with sowing • Many pre-emergent herbicides are before opening rains have been received. ineffective in the absence of soil Typically agronomic best practice is not moisture. This can place increased to dry sow as the range of associated risks pressure and reliance on more later in the crop can often discount any expensive post emergent chemicals. • If weeds are present and germinate with benefits by the earlier sowing. the crop, the impact on yield can be As always there always seems to be high. At the same time these weeds are exceptions to the rules and some fanners robbing the crop of the applied on the Eyre Peninsula have used dry fertiliser. sowing with varying degrees of success. • In the event of staggered germinations, This article is to raise the level of timing of application of post emergent awareness of the risks and to help identify chemicals can be difficult where crops some key points to success if the decision are very sensitive at younger growth stages. Waiting for plants to “catch-up” is made to put a paddock in dry. can cause delays in optimum timing and allows weeds to get bigger which could Things to Consider: mean poor herbicide perfonnance.

• Weed status of the paddock. Is there a • Watch out for pests! Mice and ants can large seed bank, especially grass take off with your seed while it is weeds? sitting in the soil waiting to germinate. • Overall area to be planted in relation to • Poor emergence on non wetting sands. the time and lateness of the season. • What are the consequences if insufficient rainfall comes after planting? i.e. Patchy and staggered germinations and poor crop establishment.

Low Rainfall Project 181 CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Getting it right Dry sowing should not be approached in a • Paddock selection will play a big role in "let's just jam it in and see what happens success with dry sowing. Paddocks with " fashion. If you consider all the risks low weed seed banks will be more carefully dry sowing can fit in to your suitable. program if circumstances demand it. • Choose a paddock that is less prone to However the risks from dry sowing can drift. expose you to a number of problems. If you have any doubts, then my advice would be to wait until the rains come.

182 Low Rainfall Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Herbicides affect yield and nitrogen fixation in peas

Elizabeth Drew, Gupta Vadakattu, David Roget, CSIRO, Waite Campus

Key Messages • In-crop applications of some broadleaf and grass herbicides can reduce nodulation and nitrogen fixation of peas. • Timing of herbicide application and seasonal conditions play an important role in herbicide-legume interactions. • Late applications of some broadleaf and grass herbicides can reduce crop yields.

Why do the trial? In the low rainfall region of the Murray How was it done? Mallee, a number of herbicides Replicated plots of Parafield peas recommended for use in legumes (vetch (fertilised with 0:20:0 @ 70 kg/ha) were and peas) have been found to reduce the sown on 3rd June 2004. number of nodules per plant and nitrogen fixation. Herbicides are a vital Half the post-emergent herbicide component within current fanning treatments were applied on the 30th June systems and are commonly used in when the crop was at the 3-node growth legume crops and pastures to control stage. The remainder of the trial was weeds. sprayed on September 1st just as flowering commenced (10-20% crop had Trials were conducted at the Minnipa commenced flowering). It should be noted Agricultural Centre in medic and peas in that spraying during flowering is not 2002 and 2003 and in peas in 2004. Trials recommended practice for herbicide in 2003 indicated post-emergent treatments flumetsulam and diflufenican. applications of some herbicides caused Herbicides were applied using a 2.0m crop yellowing and reduced nodulation of shrouded boom with TeeJet® 11002 peas. Single applications of flumetsulam, nozzles at a pressure of 32 psi. Water imazethapyr, metribuzin, and clethodim volume was 100 L/ha. caused yield reductions in peas (Refer to ‘EPFS 2003 pg 40' for more information). Assessment: plants were sampled three The aim of the trial in 2004 was to weeks after the initial herbicide investigate the effects of six commonly application. Plant dry matter and used herbicides for the control of grass nodulation was assessed. Anthesis (end and/or broadleaved weeds in peas on the flowering) dry matter cuts were taken on growth, nitrogen fixation and yield of the 21st of October. Peas were harvested on crop. The impact of spray time was also 28th October. investigated.

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Table 1: Herbicide treatments applied to Peas. Active Chemical Herbicide Rate Additive Recommended label application time Control (no herbicide) - - - Flumetsulam 800 g/kg 25 g/ha Uptake 0.5% 2-6 node Difiufenican 500 g/L 200 ml/ha - 3 node - pre flowering Butroxydim 250 + Fluazifop P butyl 280 g/ha DC Trate 2% Any Clethodirn 240 g/L 250 ml/ha Hasten 1% Not stated Sethoxydim 186 g/L 1.0 L/ha DC Trate 1% Not stated Haloxyfop 520 g/L 40 ml/ha Uptake 0.5% 2 node - full flowering What happened? capacity to absorb the herbicide, but Results for 2004 show the initial would also have a greater demand for application of herbicides had no nutrients and moisture and therefore be significant effects on crop growth or more susceptible to environmental stress nodulation measured at three weeks after at the time of spraying. spray time, however some trends were apparent, compared to the clear effects Late herbicide application of herbicides observed at the site in 2003 {Table 2). in 2004 (start flowering) significantly Several factors contribute to the reduced anthesis crop dry matter (data not magnitude of the herbicide effect shown) and yields (Figure 1) compared including crop health and herbicide to unsprayed and 3 node sprayed application time. Plants were sprayed treatments. The grass herbicides tested much earlier in the growing season in reduced yields up to 43%, it should be 2004, 4 weeks after sowing vs. 6-8 weeks noted that while broadleaf herbicides after sowing in 2003, which is reflected in flumetsulam and difiufenican reduced the SDW in Table 2. Larger plants in 2003 yields they are not recommended for late would not only have a greater spraying (Table 1).

Table 2: Comparison of herbicide effects on nodulation (Nodule score and Effective nodules per plant) and shoot dry matter (SDW) in peas grown at Minnipa in 2003 and 2004. Results are for three weeks after herbicide application (Tl). * indicates values significantly (P<0.05) lower than control treatments. Herbicide 2003 2004 Nodule Score (/5) SDW(Tl)t/ha Eff nod/plant SDW(Tl)t/ha Control 3.85 1.64 44.6 0.23 Flumetsulam *2.95 1.53 28.6 0.23 Difiufenican 3.20 1.71 41.4 0.24 Diuron PSPE *3.15 1.62 - - ■ Metribuzin *2.25 *1.10 - Imazethapyr *2.90 1.52 - - Butroxydim + Fluazifop P - - 35.1 0.25 Clethodim *2.79 *1.26 32.6 0.26 ■ Sethoxydim - 32.7 0.22 Haloxyfop *3.05 1.63 42.6 0.22

184 Low Rainfall Project CWFS Research Compendium 2004-2005

Figure 1. Herbicide spray time (3 = 3 node, F = flowering) affected yield of Parafield peas grown at Minnipa in 2004. * indicates values significantly (P<0.05) lower than controls and ^ indicates where yield is significantly (P<0.05) lower in flowering application compared to 3 node application of the same herbicide.

What does it mean? make more informed herbicide choices. Reductions in nodule number due to Early control of weeds through the use of herbicide applications can translate to a post-emergent herbicides may have less reduction in nitrogen fixation by the impact on legume nodulation, nitrogen legume thus affecting the legume crop fixation and crop yields than late yield and also less nitrogen carry over herbicide applications. benefit to the following wheat crop, as was observed in pea trials at Waikerie in Acknowledgements 2003. Further analysis will determine if Thanks to Amanda Cook and Michael herbicides affected nitrogen fixation at Bennet from the Minnipa Agricultural Minnipa in 2004. Centre for their assistance implementing, maintaining and sampling the trial. This As the growing season progresses the work was funded by the GRDC. crop has an increasing demand for moisture and nutrients. Late applications Rainfall: of herbicides is an additional stress to the Av. annual: 326 mm crop which can either directly impact on Av. G.S.R.: 241 mm pod formation or reduce photosynthesis 2004 total: 288 mm during flowering and pod filling when the 2004 G.S.R.:223mm demand for carbon is high. Hence, the consequence of late spraying can be Paddock History reduced yields. 2004: Pulse trials 2003: Barque barley Herbicides are essential in intensive 2002: Yitpi wheat faming systems, particularly with the move towards reduced till systems and Soil Type management should not be compromised. Alkaline red sandy loam, pH 8.9 Our work aims to identify which herbicides may put a legume or pasture Plot size crop at risk, hence allowing farmers to 10m x 1.44m x 4 Reps.

Low Rainfall Project 185 INDEX 1998-2005

Index for CWFS Compendiums 1998 -

ZOOS.

Bold numbers give the year of the Compendium to look in (e.g. 98 is 1998; 0203 is the 2002 - 2003 Annual Research Compendium). Other numbers give page numbers.

A

Acidosis ...... 98 p. 66 Albrecht system ...... 9900 p.l13; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25,0405 pp. 94, 121 Alectown ...... 9900 p. 90; 0001 pp. 89, 101; 0102 pp. 90, 99; 0203 pp. 91, 96; 0304 pp. 25, 55, 65, 81; 0405 pp. 51, 55, 63, 65, 72 Alroc mineral fertilisers ...... 9900 p.l13; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25; 0405 p. 121 Alternative fanning systems...... 9900 p.l13; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25; 0405 p. 121 Amelioration...... see soil amelioration Annual pastures ...... 98 p. 39

B

Barley ...... 0001 p. 12; 0102 p. 99; 0203 pp. 45, 66; 0405 p. 174 Bedgerebong...... 0203 p. 30; 0304 p. 25 BioAg ...... 9900 p.l 13; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25; 0405 p. 121 Black point ...... 0001 p. 12 Bogan Gate...... 0203 p. 30; 0304 pp. 25, 55 Burning...... 0102 p. 42 c Canola...... 9900 pp. 37-45, 101, 102, 105; 0001 p. 96; 0102 pp. 68, 90, 94, 99; 0203 pp. 48, 99; 0304 pp. 37, 85, 103; 0405 p. 65 Caragabal...... 9900 p. 102; 0405 pp. 39, 153 Carbon ...... see organic carbon Chickpeas ...... 98 p. 17 Climate ...... see seasonal forecasting Computer modelling ...... 0304 p. 29 Condobolin ...... 9900 p. 2; 0001 p. 1; 0102 pp. 16, 32, 79; 0203 pp. 15, 19, 30, 38; 0304 pp. 15, 25, 55; 0405 pp. 19, 27, 30, 160, 168, 174 Conservation farming ...... 98 p. 30; 0001 pp. 19, 24 Continuous cropping...... 98 p. 19; 0001 p. 19; 0304 p. 166; 0405 p. 19, 27 Controlled traffic ...... 98 p. 26; 0102 pp. 33, 35, 37 Copper...... 0203 p. 91 Cover crops...... 98 pp. 52,97 Crop monitoring ...... 9900 p. 81; 0102 p. 24; 0203 p. 27; 0304 p. 22

Index 187 INDEX 1998 - 2005

Crops ...... see each by name Crown rot...... 9900 p. 33; 0203 pp. 46, 110

D

Dips ...... 98 p. 76 Direct drill ...... 9900 p. 60; 0102 p.35 Disease ...... 0203 p. 45 (see also diseases by name) Drought...... 98 p. 71; 0203 pp. 41, 42, 49 Durum wheat ...... 98 p. 12; 9900 p. 107 Dry sowing ...... 0405 p. 181

E

Economics ...... 0001 p. 39 Establishment of crops...... 9900 p. 17; 0405 p. 72 Euabalong...... 98 p. 33; 0001 pl 01; 0102 pp. 79, 101; 0302 pp. 55, 94; 0405 pp. 77, 81,85

F Faba beans ...... 98 p. 17 Fallow...... see Tillage Farming systems comparison.... 9900 p. 2; 0001 p. 1; 0102 pp. 16, 20; 0203 pp. 15, 19; 0304 p. 15;; 0405 pp. 19,27,30 Fat scoring ...... 0001 p. 53 Feeding in drought...... 98 p. 71 Fertiliser placement ...... 9900 p. 20; 0304 p. 112 Fertilisers after drought...... 0203 p. 52 Field Peas...... 98 p. 17; 0001 p. 104; 0405 pp. 63, 81, 85, 131, 134, 183 Finances...... see Profit Fine wool...... 98 p. 58 Fixed nitrogen...... 98 pp. 36, 45; 0102 p. 49; 0405 p. 183 Forbes ...... 0203 p. 31; 0304 p. 25; 0405 pp. 72, 160 Fungicide...... 0304 pp. 75, 81; 0405 p. 55

G

Grain feeding sheep ...... 98 p. 66 Gunning Gap ...... 9900 pp. 93, 99, 102, 105, 107; 0001 pp. 96, 106, 109; 0102 pp. 79, 94; 0203 p. 95; 0304 pp. 25, 55, 68, 72, 75; 0405 pp. 89, 94 Gypsum ...... 0001 p. 109; 0102 p. 96; 0203 p. 103; 0304 pp. 65, 68; 0405 pp. 94, 168

H

Herbicides...... 0102 p. 79; 0203 p. 95; 0304 p. 55; 0405 pp. 81, 147, 183 High density legumes...... 0001 pp. 54, 58

188 Index INDEX 1998 - 2005

I

Internet...... 98 p. 85

L

Lamb production...... 0001 pp. 51, 57 Leaf rust...... 98 p. 13 Lentils ...... 9900 p. 51 Lice in sheep ...... 98 p. 76 Lime...... 0001 p. 109; 0102 p. 96; 0203 pp. 76, 103, 106; 0304 pp. 65, 68, 72; 0405 pp. 94, 168 Long-term tillage trial...... 98 p. 19 Lucerne ...... 0203 p. 71 Lucerne removal ...... 98 p. 42; 9900 p. 111 Lupins ...... 98p.l6;9900 p. 99; 0405 pp. 85, 131,134

M

Magnesium ...... 0203 p. 91; 0405 pp. 27, 160, 168 Mandagery...... 0304 p. 25 Marsden...... 9900 pp. 102, 105 Merriwagga...... 9900 p. 88; 0001 pp. 73, 76; 0102 p. 70; 0203 p. 83; 0304 pp. 25, 45; 0405 pp. 99, 103 Mulyandry...... 9900 pp. 102, 107; 0001 pp. 96, 106 Mustard...... 0304 p. 103

N Native grasses ...... 98 p. 52; 0102 p. 56; 0405 p. 35 Nitrogen...... 98 pp. 23, 36, 100; 9900 pp. 5, 11, 15, 90; 0001 p. 12; 0203 p. 52; 0304 p. 85; 0405 p. 174 No tillage ...... 9900 p. 60; 0102 p. 35 Nutri-tec...... 9900 p.113; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25; 0405 p. 121 Nyngan ...... 9900 pp. 97, 101; 0001 p. 94; 0102 p. 64; 0203 pp. 32, 37, 56; 0304 pp. 25, 83, 85, 87; 0405 pp. 111,115

o Organic carbon ...... 98 p. 23; 0001 p. 69; 0405 pp. 27, 168 Organic farming system...... 9900 p. l13; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25;0405 p. 121

P Parkes ...... 0203 p. 32; 0304 pp. 25, 55; 0405 p. 72, 160 Pasture management...... 98 p. 54; 0102 p. 56 Pasture production ...... 9900 p. 64; 0001 pp. 62, 67; 0102 p. 56; 0203 p. 71 Peas...... see Field peas Perennial pastures...... 98 pp. 39, 49, 52; 0203 p. 71; 0304 p. 34

Index 189 INDEX 1998 - 2005

Phosphorus...... 9900 p. 105; 0001 pp. 101, 104; 0102 pp. 79, 90, 94; 0203 pp. 52, 91, 95, 99; 03 04 p. 55, 83; 0405 pp. 27, 63 Points ...... 0001 p. 9 Precision fanning ...... see Controlled traffic Prices of livestock...... 0001 p. 42 Prime hard wheat ...... 98 p. 45; 0001 p. 62; 0102 p. 49 Profit...... 98 p. 80; 0001 p. 32; 0203 p. 42 Pulses...... 98 p. 16; 9900 pp. 46-53, 97; 0001 p. 94; 0102 pp. 68, 101; 0304 pp. 87, 90, 94, 107; 0405 pp. 63, 81, 85, 131, 134 Q Quandialla...... 0102 p. 79; 0203 p. 95; 0304 p. 55

R

Raised beds...... 0001 p. 27; 0405 p. 160 Rankins Springs...... 9900 p. 113; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25; 0405 p. 121 Risk management...... 0203 p. 42 Rotation ...... 9900 pp. 2, 88; 0001 pp. 1, 73, 76; 0102 pp. 16, 20, 70; 0203 pp. 15, 19, 47, 56, 59, 83; 0304 pp. 15, 25, 45; 0405 pp.19, 103 Row spacing ...... 9900 p. 26 Ryegrass ...... 98 p. 23; 9900 p. 31

S Salinity ...... 0001 p. 27; 0203 p. 79; 0405 pp. 27, 160, 168 Seasonal forecasting ...... 98 p. 89; 9900 p. 76 Seed placement...... 0304 p. 123 Seeding rate ...... 0102 pp. 67, 86; 0405 p. 72 Soil acidity...... 0203 p. 76; 0304 p. 72; 0405 pp. 27, 160 Soil amelioration...... 0001 p. 109; 0102 p. 96; 0203 p. 106; 0304 pp. 65, 68; 0405 pp. 94, 160, 168 Soil biology ...... 0001 p. 22; 0304 p. 118; 0405 p. 183 Soil Management Riverina ...... 9900 p.113; 0001 pp. 19, 84; 0102 p. 72; 0203 p. 86; 0304 p. 25; 0405 p. 121 Soil structure...... 9900 p. 54 Sodicity...... 9900 p. 54; 0001 p. 109; 0102 p. 96; 0203 p. 103; 0304 p. 65; 0405 pp. 27, 94, 160, 168 Statistics...... 0203 p. 13; 0405 p. 17 Stripe rust...... 0304 pp. 75, 81; 0405 p. 55 Stubble...... 98 p. 19; 9900 p. 31; 0001 p. 78; 0102 pp. 37, 42; 0203 p. 110 Sulphur ...... 0203 pp. 91, 99 Syndicated farming ...... 0102 p. 38

190 Index INDEX 1998 - 2005

T

Tillage...... 98 p. 1l l ; 9900 pp. 31, 88, 109; 0001 pp. 73, 76, 78; 0102 p. 70; 0203 p. 83; 0304 pp. 25, 29, 45; 0405 pp. 19, 103 Topdressing N...... 9900 pp. 10, 93; 0001 p. 96; 0102 p. 66 Tottenham...... 0102 p. 79; 0303 pp. 25, 55, 90; 0405 pp. 127, 131, 134, 160 Transfer of farms ...... 98 p. 94 Trundle ...... 0203 p. 33; 0304 p. 25 Tullamore ...... 0203 p. 33 Tullibigeal...... 0203 p. 34

U Ungarie...... 9900 p. 90; 0001 p. 101; 0203 p. 34; 0304 p. 98; 0405 p. 139

V Vetch ...... 0001 p. 59; 0304 p. 98; 0405 pp. 47, 85, 134

W Water...... 0304 p. 34; 0405 p. 30 Weather ...... see seasonal forecasting Weed control ...... 0001 p. 92; 0102 p. 46; 0203 pp. 49, 63; 0405 pp. 81, 147 Weethalle...... 98 Appendix; 9900 pp. 109, 111; 0001 pp. 78, 92; 0102 p. 102; 0304 p. 52; 0405 pp. 143, 147, 150 Wheat ...... 9900 p. 17; 0001 pp. 12, 94; 0102 pp. 65, 86, 99; 0203 p. 45; 0405 pp. 55, 72, 131 Wirrinya ...... 9900 pp. 93, 99, 102, 105, 107, 115; 0001 pp. 96, 104, 106; 0102 p. 79; 0405 p. 153

Y Yellow leaf spot...... 98 p.13; 0405 p. 55

Z Zinc ...... 98 p. 13; 9900 pp. 113, 115; 0001 pp. 76, 106; 0102 p. 79; 0203 pp. 91, 95, 99; 0304 p. 55

Index 191