Phosphorus Fertility Management on Prairie Organic Farms

J.D. Knight

Abstract
The use of synthetic chemicals as inorganic fertilizers is strictly prohibited in organic management systems presenting unique challenges for managing soil fertility. Water limitations, extreme temperatures and relatively short growing
seasons, present additional challenges to organic growers in the Canadian Prairies. Furthermore, relatively large farm sizes, and the predominance of grain farms complicate soil fertility management because of the lack of animal manures for use as nutrient sources. Reliance on tillage for weed control must be balanced against the detrimental effects on soil structure. Phosphorus fertility management on Saskatchewan organic farms will be discussed highlighting ongoing research
activities at the U. of S.


Source
Proceedings of the Joint Conference of the Canadian Society of Soil Science and the Canadian Society of Agronomy, Beyond Organics session. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. 20-24 June 2010.


Author Location and Affiliation
Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture and BioResources, University of Saskatchewan


Posted July 2010