The total soil bacterial levels are mostly within the desired range, but the active bacteria are below optimal. Fungal populations, both active and total, are significantly below what we're aiming for, with no active fungal biomass present. Additionally, our protozoa and nematode counts are lower than ideal, with flagellates and total nematodes notably deficient, indicating a lack of nutrient cycling and biological diversity in the soil. Mycorrhizal colonisation, crucial for plant nutrient uptake, is also insufficient for both endo and ecto types.
INSIGHTS: The soil is in poor condition - lacking the right microbial activity to foster healthy plant growth
The soil analysis indicates that both fungal populations and beneficial microbes like protozoa and nematodes are significantly below optimal levels. This deficiency impacts nutrient cycling and soil fertility, highlighting an urgent need for microbial enhancement to support healthy soil dynamics.
The extremely low rates of mycorrhizal colonisation—crucial for plant nutrient uptake—are particularly concerning. Enhancing mycorrhizal presence through inoculation and providing supportive conditions like humic acids could dramatically improve plant health and soil stability.
The soil is currently dominated by bacteria with inadequate fungal activity. Adjusting this imbalance is vital for disease suppression, nutrient retention, and overall soil health. Introducing fungal foods and composts can help increase fungal biomass to a more beneficial level.
The lack of active soil life forms like protozoa and nematodes, which are essential for breaking down organic matter and cycling nutrients, suggests the soil is not functioning efficiently. Strategies to increase these populations will enhance nutrient availability and support plant growth.
Given the widespread presence of weeds and poor soil health, a comprehensive approach involving the introduction of beneficial microbes, targeted fungal treatments, and regular monitoring and adjustments is necessary to rehabilitate the soil and ensure sustainable agricultural productivity.
ACTION: Adjust the soil's microbial environment to balance the fungal to bacterial biomass ratio, ensuring a healthy pasture with efficient disease suppression and nutrient retention.
Apply fungal compost tea as a soil drench to enhance fungal populations.
Introduce beneficial nematodes to diversify soil biota and improve plant health.
Add mycorrhizal spores to soil and provide humic acids to support mycorrhizal colonization.