Wood Vinegar, Fertiliser Efficiency and Soil Biology: PyroAg Featured by EcoVoice

Rising fertiliser costs have increased the importance of getting more value from every input applied on-farm.

In a feature published by EcoVoice, PyroAg discusses how Australian-made Wood Vinegar is being researched and used within farming systems to support soil biology, nutrient availability and more efficient use of agricultural inputs.

The article explores research undertaken with the University of Newcastle, PyroAg’s Australian Wood Vinegar production and the experience of commercial growers incorporating Wood Vinegar alongside existing fertiliser and biological programs.

Belehris Estate almond orchard in Renmark, South Australia, where PyroAg Wood Vinegar has been incorporated into the property’s irrigation and soil management program.

Can Wood Vinegar Support Fertiliser Efficiency?

Wood Vinegar is not a fertiliser and is not positioned as a direct replacement for fertiliser. Instead, research is helping build our understanding of how Wood Vinegar may influence the biological and chemical processes that affect nutrient availability and uptake.

This is particularly relevant for growers looking for ways to improve nutrient use efficiency and potentially reduce reliance on high rates of conventional inputs without compromising productivity.

The EcoVoice feature highlights PyroAg research with the University of Newcastle investigating the effects of Wood Vinegar on soil microbial communities and plant growth-promoting bacteria.

At appropriate concentrations, the research observed increased microbial diversity and abundance of beneficial plant growth-promoting bacteria under the conditions studied.

Working Alongside Existing Fertiliser Programs

An important part of the PyroAg approach is that Wood Vinegar can be incorporated into existing farming systems.

The EcoVoice article features South Australian almond grower Jim Belehris of Belehris Estate, who discusses using PyroAg Wood Vinegar through irrigation as part of a broader program incorporating compost, microbes and other inputs.

Rather than viewing Wood Vinegar as a replacement for an entire nutrient program, its role can be considered alongside fertilisers and biological inputs as growers look for opportunities to improve the efficiency of their existing system.

Australian Research, Australian Agriculture

PyroAg continues to invest in research to better understand how Wood Vinegar interacts with soil biology, nutrient cycling and plant growth.

This research, combined with commercial experience across Australian farming systems, is helping develop practical application guidance for growers considering where Wood Vinegar could fit within their existing programs.

Read the EcoVoice Feature

The original EcoVoice feature explores PyroAg’s research, manufacturing process and the role Wood Vinegar could play as Australian growers respond to increasing input costs and look for greater efficiency from their farming systems.

EcoVoice: PyroAg Wood Vinegar leading the Australian charge