Soils on which buffel grass seedlings respond to phosphate fertiliser

Abstract

Eleven western Queensland soils were tested to identify those on which buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) seedling growth would be strongly enhanced by the presence of phosphate fertiliser. The addition of 26 kg P /ha to the surface of fertile, cracking clays and alluvial soils did not markedly improve seedling growth rate, but a large positive response was achieved on four acid red earths, on a grey loam and on a loose sandy soil. All three buffel strains used (Biloela, Gayndah and Q10087) responded similarly.