Management of Pinus radiata on phosphorus-deficient soils in Victoria.  D. W. Flinn and P. W. Farrell.  November 1981.  7 pp. (unpubl.)

SUMMARY

This paper reviews the role of phosphorus in the nutrition of Pinus radiata D. Don (radiata pine) and the management of plantations of the species on phosphorus-deficient soils in Victoria, by the Forests Commission. The phosphorus requirement of P. radiata, and the use of deficiency symptoms and needle analysis to diagnose phosphorus deficiency, are discussed. A fertiliser program is outlined, consisting of a localised application of superphosphate at a rate of 180 g tree^-1, at the time of planting, followed by an aerial topdressing with superphosphate, at 700 kg ha^-1 for soils of low phosphorus retention, or 800 kg ha^-1 for soils of high phosphorus retention, at four to five years of age. Because of the absence of reliable soil tests, these rates are largely based on experience - they have been found to be effective over a range of phosphorus-deficient sites in Victoria planted with radiata pine.

Also published:

Flinn, D.W. and Farrell, P.W. (1981)  Management of Pinus radiata on phosphorus-deficient soils in Victoria.  Soil Manag. Conf., Aust. Soc. Soil Sci. Vic. Branch, Dookie, Victoria, May 1981, pp. 5-14.