Soils - Research

Soil Quality and Classification

This research programme aims to develop soil management strategies tailored to maximize soil functions (e.g. food & fibre production, C-sequestration, water purification), and to avert threats to soil quality. This is underpinned by the recently developed Irish Soil Information System.

Nutrient Efficiency

This research programme aims to maximise the utilisation of nutrients in soil, organic manures and inorganic fertiliser. Its primary output is the National Nutrient Advice “Green Book” and the further development of Nutrient Management Planning online.

• Long-term test facility for testing of conventional and enhanced efficiency nitrogen fertilisers
• Identifying and correcting site-specific sulphur deficiency
• Phosphorus management in organic soils for sustainable agriculture
• A rapid and multi-element method for the analysis of major and trace elements in grass using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy