Detailed soil analysis and variable rate applications are helping JRT Campbell reduce fertiliser costs, improve nutrient efficiency and make more informed decisions across the farm.

Key farm facts

• 230-cow milking herd with replacements, housed and milked via Lely robots
• 166ha of grassland and winter cereals
• Uses RHIZA soil sampling and Contour for nutrient planning and compliance

Driving change through cost and data

Rising fertiliser prices following the Ukraine war prompted JRT Campbell to take a closer look at nutrient management. At the same time, becoming an AHDB Strategic Dairy Farm highlighted opportunities to reduce inputs without compromising output.

“We were applying nutrients for offtake, but not checking if we actually needed them. That’s where things started to change.”

David Campbell, JRT Campbell

Moving to RHIZA soil sampling and mapping provided a clearer picture of nutrient status across the farm and enabled variable rate applications on larger fields.

Cutting phosphate and improving efficiency

One of the most significant changes has been the removal of phosphate applications. The business has now gone five years without applying phosphate fertiliser, instead using Agrii Start Release at establishment to help unlock existing soil reserves.

“It’s about making better use of muck and slurry.”

David Campbell, JRT Campbell

Variable rate potash applications have also improved consistency across fields by matching applications to crop requirement.

“Some areas need 110kg/ha, others only 60kg/ha. It’s much more even now.”

David Campbell, JRT Campbell

Smarter investment, lower costs

Moving away from blanket fertiliser applications and removing phosphate from the programme has reduced establishment costs, particularly within winter cereals.

The farm has also been able to avoid significant capital expenditure by adapting existing equipment rather than replacing it.

“A second-hand KRM spreader was made variable rate compatible for around £600. That’s a big saving compared to buying new.”

David Campbell, JRT Campbell

Unlocking soil potential

Although the business had always been proactive with liming, detailed soil analysis revealed variation that had previously gone unnoticed.

“We didn’t realise how light some of our land was. The lime wasn’t lasting as long as we thought.”

David Campbell, JRT Campbell

Using soil data to target applications more accurately has helped improve soil condition and maintain performance across the farm.

Data that works day-to-day

Contour is now central to nutrient management and compliance planning.

“All the data is there at your fingertips. Plans go straight to the contractor, so everyone knows what’s needed.”

David Campbell, JRT Campbell

The system also provides a complete record of applications and nutrient plans, supporting inspections and assurance requirements.

“We’re audit ready any day of the year.”

David Campbell, JRT Campbell

Results at a glance

• No phosphate applied for five years
• Reduced fertiliser spend and establishment costs
• Improved field consistency through variable rate applications
• Better use of organic manures and existing nutrient reserves
• Full compliance records available in one system

To find out how RHIZA soil sampling and Contour can support nutrient management on your farm, speak to your local Agrii team.