Why More Fertiliser Won't Fix Your Soil

What if the problem with your pasture, garden or lifestyle block isn't a lack of nutrients, but the fact that your soil can't access the nutrients already there? In this episode of An Eco Farmer's Discovery, Stephen Brunton sits down with EcoFarm soil consultant Campbell Page to explore how soil testing can reveal what's really happening beneath the surface. From identifying nutrient deficiencies and understanding soil biology to recognising what weeds might be telling you, Campbell explains why it's important to investigate the root cause of a problem rather than simply applying more fertiliser. Whether you're managing a commercial farm, running a lifestyle block, growing your own vegetables or raising animals, understanding your soil can help you make more informed decisions about fertility, pasture health and food quality. The conversation also explores the relationship between soil chemistry and biology, the role of nutrient availability, and how a more targeted approach could help reduce unnecessary fertiliser spending. In this episode: Meet Campbell Page, EcoFarm's soil consultant for DIY soil testing clients How soil testing identifies nutrient levels and limiting factors The difference between total nutrients and nutrients available to plants What soil structure and flocculation mean for air, water and biology How weeds like dock, gorse and thistles can provide clues about soil conditions Why the same soil principles apply to lifestyle blocks and commercial farms How soil chemistry and biology work together to cycle nutrients Why applying more fertiliser may not address the underlying problem How nutrient availability can influence pasture growth and animal health When to carry out soil and herbage testing How targeted nutrient applications can help address specific deficiencies Where to start if you want to improve your own soil Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/downlo... Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUg...