Effect of Fertiliser Applications at Different Ages on Growth and Form of Eucalyptus globulus Plantations in the Wattle Range area

AIMS:
To investigate the possible improvement of nutrient status, growth and form of Eucalyptus globulus by fertiliser applications in the Wattle Range area.

CONCLUSIONS:
• There is no economic advantage in using Forest Mix 4 fertiliser rates in excess of 100 kg/ha of product.
• The application of fertiliser produced an economic growth response in 3 year old E. globulus growing on Young sand.
• The application of fertiliser produced an economic growth response in E. globulus when applied to 2 year old trees growing on a Short sand.
• The application of fertiliser did not produce an economic growth response in E. globulus when applied to 1 year old trees growing on a Short sand.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
• Forest Mix 4 or its equivalent is a suitable fertiliser product for use with 2 – 3 year old E. globulus plantations growing on Young or Short sands in the Wattle Range area.
• A rate of 100 kg/ha of Forest Mix 4 is recommended for fertilising 2 – 3 year old E. globulus plantations growing on Young or Short sands in the Wattle Range area.
• The application of fertiliser to 1 year old E. globulus plantations growing on Short sand is not recommended.