Report Summary
Bernie Bierhoff, farm manager of Avondale, has been highly impressed by the performance of BEST Terramend Agricultural (TM Ag) on his Sicot 748 cotton, particularly in the previously underperforming Field 103. Bernie began treating his soil with TM Ag in 2016, incorporating a crop rotation of cereals, pulses, and cotton into his farming practices.
In 2017, following the application of TM Ag, the chickpea harvest delivered outstanding results, averaging 1.9 t/ha. This success marked the beginning of noticeable improvements in soil health and productivity.
Soil observations after the TM Ag treatment during the 2016 chickpea cultivation, coupled with two applications of 500 ml/ha TM Ag this cotton season, revealed significant enhancements especially in field 103. These included improved soil structure and an increase in soil organic matter, attributed to the activation of native soil biology by TM Ag. This biological activation boosted soil functions such as water-holding capacity, gaseous exchange, water infiltration, nutrient availability, and resistance to erosion.
The rejuvenated soil fertility has profoundly benefited cotton growth and development, resulting in:
- Higher germination rates.
- Enhanced plant growth and robust root development.
- Greater cotton retention.
- Improved yields and fiber quality.
- Increased resistance to pests and environmental stresses.
This season’s exceptional yield of 13.59 bales/ha (equivalent to 3.085 t/ha lint) earned Bernie a nomination for the prestigious 2018 Australian Cotton Grower of the Year award.
