Maximising Fertiliser Efficiency with Diatomaceous Earth (Diatomite / DE) and Attapulgite Clay in Australia

Australian farmers, horticulturists, landscapers, and turf managers are facing increasing challenges due to hot, dry conditions, nutrient-poor soils, and water scarcity. Maintaining soil fertility and maximising the efficiency of fertiliser applications has never been more critical.

Hudson Resources connects growers with processed diatomaceous earth (diatomite / DE) and attapulgite clay end product applications, minerals that naturally improve nutrient retention, moisture availability, and soil structure, ensuring fertilisers are used more effectively and crops thrive.

Discover how diatomaceous earth (diatomite / DE) and attapulgite clay enhance fertiliser efficiency, nutrient retention, and soil structure for Australian agriculture, horticulture, turf, and gardens. Learn practical application strategies and supplier connections

How Diatomaceous Earth (Diatomite / DE) Supports Fertiliser Efficiency

• Silica-rich composition: Strengthens plant cell walls and promotes robust root and stem growth

• Enhanced moisture retention: Keeps fertiliser nutrients in the root zone for longer periods

• Slow-release effect: Adsorbs nutrients such as ammonium, potassium, and calcium, releasing them gradually to reduce leaching, especially in sandy soils

• Application: Can be blended with granular fertilisers or incorporated into soil before application. Typical rates for broadacre crops range from 100–500 kg per hectare depending on soil type

How Attapulgite Clay Enhances Fertiliser Performance

• High cation exchange capacity (CEC): Binds positively charged nutrients (K⁺, NH₄⁺, Ca²⁺) to prevent leaching and improve plant uptake

• Improved soil structure: Promotes aggregation, aeration, and even nutrient distribution

• Synergy with water retention: Keeps fertiliser nutrients accessible to plant roots for longer periods

• Application: Typically applied at 5–15% by volume in soil mixes, either pre-blended with fertilisers or incorporated separately

Blended Applications: Combining Diatomaceous Earth and Attapulgite Clay

• Combined benefits: Enhances moisture retention, nutrient holding capacity, and soil structure simultaneously

• Recommended ratio: 4 parts attapulgite clay to 1 part diatomaceous earth (diatomite / DE)

• Practical use: Spread evenly over soil and incorporate into the top 10–20 cm. Works well in combination with organic fertilisers for long-term nutrient supply. Suitable for broadacre crops, horticulture, turf, and gardens

Advantages of Using These Minerals with Fertiliser

• Minimises nutrient leaching, particularly in sandy or high-drainage soils

• Provides a slow, steady release of nutrients, enhancing fertiliser efficiency

• Strengthens plant health and resilience against heat, drought, and disease

• Improves soil aggregation and aeration, promoting better root development

• Supports sustainable farming practices by reducing fertiliser wastage and environmental runoff

Practical Guidance for Australian Growers

• Sandy soils: Attapulgite clay retains nutrients, while diatomaceous earth (diatomite / DE) retains moisture

• High temperatures: Both minerals maintain nutrient availability and reduce volatilisation losses

• Timing: Apply minerals before or alongside fertiliser to maximise efficiency

• Blended vs separate application: Use separately if targeting specific soil issues; blend for multi-purpose applications including fertiliser efficiency and soil conditioning

Accessing Processed Australian Diatomaceous Earth and Attapulgite Clay

Hudson Resources can put growers in touch with suppliers of processed Australian diatomaceous earth (diatomite / DE) and attapulgite clay suitable for fertiliser enhancement and soil conditioning. Available formats include:

• 10 L tubs for small-scale gardens, horticultural plots, or poultry bedding

• Bulk supply for broadacre crops, turf, or orchards

• Blended formulations for combined moisture retention and nutrient efficiency

For more information or supplier connections, contact Hudson Resources:

Email: hudsonresources@hpgl.com.au PH: 02 9251 7177

Conclusion

Incorporating diatomaceous earth (diatomite / DE) and attapulgite clay into fertiliser applications allows Australian growers to optimise nutrient efficiency, reduce leaching, and improve soil and crop resilience. By connecting with Hudson Resources, growers can access locally processed minerals and implement sustainable, effective strategies for agriculture, horticulture, turf, and garden management.

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