How Sandalwood Poll Merino Improved Crop Health and Soil Quality with PyroAg Wood Vinegar

For family-owned farming business Sandalwood Poll Merino, productivity has always gone hand in hand with caring for the land.

Located in South Australia's Mid North, the enterprise combines Poll Merino sheep with broadacre cereal production, growing wheat, barley and rye while continually looking for practical ways to improve soil health and crop performance.

When Justin Boughen first trialled PyroAg Wood Vinegar in 2017, he hoped it would support nutrient uptake and contribute to healthier crops. Several years later, it has become an important part of the farm's crop management program.

Justin Boughen at Sandalwood Poll Merino, where PyroAg Wood Vinegar has formed part of the farm's cereal cropping and soil management program since 2017.

About Sandalwood Poll Merino

Sandalwood Poll Merino is a family-owned farming enterprise based in Sandalwood, South Australia.

The operation includes:

• Poll Merino sheep

• Wheat

• Barley

• Rye

Like many mixed farming businesses, maintaining productive soils while improving crop performance is essential for long-term profitability. Every management decision is made with both current production and future sustainability in mind.

Trialling PyroAg Wood Vinegar

Justin Boughen was introduced to PyroAg Wood Vinegar in 2017 through the opportunity to conduct a trial on the property.

Initially, the objective was straightforward.

The team believed PyroAg could contribute to soil carbon while helping plants more effectively absorb fertilisers and crop protection products during spray applications.

Rather than replacing existing practices, PyroAg was integrated into the farm's established management program to evaluate its performance under commercial farming conditions.

Early Results Across the Crops

The improvements became noticeable soon after introducing PyroAg.

According to Justin, crops appeared:

• Darker green

• Healthier throughout the growing season

• More vigorous following application

The family also observed improved control of broadleaf weeds during spray operations.

These practical observations gave them the confidence to continue using PyroAg across future seasons.

Supporting Root Development and Soil Structure

While healthier crops were immediately visible, Justin believes the greatest value occurs below the surface.

Healthy root systems are essential for efficient nutrient and moisture uptake, particularly during challenging growing conditions.

Justin explains that PyroAg has become part of the farm's strategy to:

• Encourage stronger root growth

• Improve soil structure

• Replace carbon removed through farming

• Support long-term soil productivity

This focus aligns with the family's commitment to continually improving the condition of their soils for future generations.

Integrated Throughout the Farming Program

After several successful seasons, PyroAg is now used throughout multiple stages of crop production.

Applications include:

• Seed dressing before sowing

• Liquid fertiliser applications

• Crop protection sprays

This flexibility allows PyroAg to fit easily within existing operations without creating additional machinery passes or significant changes to management practices.

Building Long-Term Confidence

The trial has evolved into long-term adoption.

Justin explains that the farm has now incorporated PyroAg into its cropping program for around five years, continuing to monitor soil health while refining how the product is used across the business.

Rather than viewing PyroAg as a standalone solution, Sandalwood Poll Merino considers it one component of a broader approach focused on healthy soils, resilient crops and profitable farming.

Practical Benefits for Mixed Farming Enterprises

Mixed farming operations require products that can deliver value across several parts of the business.

For Sandalwood Poll Merino, PyroAg offers that versatility by supporting cereal production while complementing existing farming practices.

Justin summarises the experience simply:

"We are very happy with PyroAg Wood Vinegar and continue to experiment with this product."

That willingness to continue refining its use reflects the confidence developed through years of practical on-farm experience.

Key Takeaways

• Family-owned mixed farming enterprise in South Australia

• Using PyroAg Wood Vinegar since 2017

• Integrated into seed dressing and liquid spray programs

• Healthier, darker green crops observed

• Improved broadleaf weed control during spraying

• Supports stronger root development and improved soil structure

• Continues to play an important role in long-term soil management

Download the PDF Case Study

Download the original Sandalwood Poll Merino case study to learn more about the farm's experience using PyroAg Wood Vinegar within its mixed farming operation.