Changes in Chemical Properties of Sandy Duplex Soils in 11 Paddocks over 21 Years in the Low Rainfall Cropping Zone of Southwestern Australia

Soil testing was conducted during 1985–2005 in 11 paddocks on sandy duplex soils on Newdegate Research Station, average annual rainfall of 377 mm, with about 70% falling in the May–October growing season, in the Mediterranean-type climate of southwestern Australia. The study was undertaken to determine lime and fertilizer requirements of eight crop species grown in rotation with one another (one crop each year in the typical May–October growing season, comprising wheat, Triticum aestivum L.; barley, Hordeum vulgare L.; oats, Avena sativa L.; lupin, Lupinus angustifolius L.; canola, Brassica napus L.; chickpea, Cicer arietinum L.; field pea, Pisum sativum L.; and subterranean clover-based pasture, Trifolium subterraneum L. All crops were sown using no-till. The study demonstrated that plant testing was required in conjunction with soil testing to confirm decisions based on soil testing and to assess management decisions for elements not covered by soil testing. Pasture dry-matter production seldom exceeds ...