Soil nutrient build up

Impact

Soil fertility refers to the quantity and balance of soil nutrients available to plants for growth.  Soil nutrients are divided into macro- and micronutrient categories depending on the quantities required by the plant.  Important macronutrients include: nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, carbon, oxygen and hydrogen.  Important micronutrients include: boron, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, zinc, cobalt, chlorine and silicon. 

Suggested indicator: Soil chemistry+

Soil nutrient build-up may be associated with:

Potential associated impacts Suggested indicators+
Improved soil fertility and subsequent increase in plant growth
Increased soil biota
  •  Soil life

If soil nutrients build-up to excessive levels:

Potential associated impacts Suggested indicators
Change in soil pH

Heavy metal toxicity adversely affecting vegetation health, resulting in:

  • reduced vegetation condition
  • reduced ground and canopy cover

Increased potential for soil nutrient leaching following rainfall or irrigation, which may lead to:

  • soil fertility decline
  • soil acidification 
  • reduced water quality due to increased nutrient levels
  • Soil chemistry
  • Nitrates in water
  • Phosphates in water

+ Descriptions of indicators (PDF, 76K)* provides a brief description of each indicator including techniques and purpose.

* Requires Adobe Reader

Last updated 7 September 2010

Land Manager's Monitoring Guide