Devenish Soil Improvement Programme implemented by Bandon Co-op

Aerating soils when they are dry, in the spring and autumn, is part of the Soil Improvement Programme (SIP) implemented by Devenish Nutrition with Bandon Co-op.

The aeration helps to break up compaction and improve air penetration.

The SIP also includes chemical rebalancing the soil’s nutrient status, and using a biological additive in slurry. Achieving the correct calcium-magnesium balance is particularly important for creating a stable soil structure to allow air penetration and an environment for soil life to flourish, to improve drainage, and to increase resistance to soil compaction, according to the team behind SIP.

They say the Digest-It biological additive has been shown in trials to improve slurry’s fertiliser nutrient value, resulting in higher grass yields and reducing the need for inorganic fertiliser.

The additive is designed to reduce crusting, so less energy is required to agitate or pump slurry. Reduced smell and improved soil life are also claimed.

Aeration is used to reduce compaction, which can limit grass yields as much as 40%.

Bandon is one the first co-ops in the country to roll out the Soil Improvement Programme.