The Response ofEucalyptus grandisto Fertilising with Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Dolomitic Lime on a Mispah Soil Series

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Abstract
The final results are presented of a comprehensive N, P,K and dolomitic lime factorial experiment with Eucalyptus grandis planted on a fully cultivated Mispah soil series. On this marginal site, fertilising had a marked effect on the growth of E. grandis as measured at clearfelling at eight years and three months. The response to single fertiliser elements was greatest for potassium, followed by phosphorus and nitrogen, dolomitic lime having a depressive effect. The best N:P elemental fertiliser ratio was 3:1, while that for P:K was 1:3. Overall, an elemental N:P:K mixture of 3:1:3 was superior, increasing growth with rate of application. Fertilising with 100 g LAN (26% N), 100 g single superphosphate (8,3% P) and 50 g potassium chloride (50% K) increased yields at clearfelling from 56,7 t/ha for no fertiliser to 85.0 t/ha, an improvement of 49,8%. This fertiliser application is recommended for planting E. grandis on shallow soils derived from Ecca shale. Fertiliser treatments also affected form factor significantly, ranging from 0,370 to 0,411 and resulting in volume differences of 11.1% for trees with the same D.B.H. and height. Not only was the response to fertilising highly profitable in itself, but it also rendered the establishment of E. grandis to be viable on an otherwise uneconomically suitable site.

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