Project overview
Soil variability is one of the biggest factors affecting cotton yield and profitability in Northern Australia. The Precision Agriculture – NT Soils Project was designed to map soil variability, identify constraints such as low pH and nutrient imbalances, and develop site-specific solutions for improving yield reliability in the region’s new cotton systems.
Working with Precision Agriculture Pty Ltd and local growers at Black Bull Station (Douglas Daly), the project used grid-based soil sampling, gamma radiometric surveying, and yield mapping to identify how soil properties drive productivity differences across fields.
The results show that soil acidity and low nutrient levels are the main barriers to yield in NT cotton, and that variable rate lime and nutrient applications can significantly improve both productivity and profitability. This project provides a foundation for more efficient, sustainable cotton production in the north.
Outcomes and achievements
- Completed grid soil sampling (2 ha grids) across 500 ha at Black Bull Station
- Identified low soil pH (<5.2) and nutrient deficiencies (P, K, Mg) as key yield constraints
- Demonstrated strong correlation between soil acidity, yield, and NDVI variability
- Conducted gamma radiometric mapping to visualise soil texture and structure
- Developed variable rate (VR) lime and nutrient maps to guide targeted soil management
- Shared results through field days, case studies, and the Food Futures Conference.
Key contributors and partners
Our thanks to Black Bull Station for collaborating on the Precision Agriculture: Managing Soil Variability in NT Cotton project.
Project status
- Complete
Contact
Campbell Underwood
Northern Business Development Manager
Precision Ag
c.underwood@pag.earth
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