New Zealand Journal of Forestry (2016) 61(2): 11–15
©New Zealand Institute of Forestry

Feature article
Overview of the issues affecting fertiliser use in New Zealand’s radiata pine forests

Simeon J. Smaill ^*,1 and Peter W. Clinton <sup>2

1</sup> Microbiologist, Scion. Email: simeon.smaill@scionresearch.com
² Forest Ecologist, Scion
^*Corresponding author.

Abstract: Fertiliser application has the capacity to improve the productivity, and potentially the sustainability, of the New Zealand radiata pine estate. While fertiliser is routinely used in locations where critical nutrient deficiencies can be addressed in a cost-effective manner, the uncertainty around the return on investment in fertiliser and concern about negative impacts on wood properties has largely curtailed attempts to transition fertiliser from a deficit management tool to a growth enhancement option. Scion is conducting research to improve the utility of fertiliser by increasing confidence in predictions of fertiliser response and test the effectiveness of new application methods. At the same time, Scion is also addressing potential consequences for wood properties and the wider environmental and regulatory issues associated with nutrient applications.
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