Code of Practice
Our Code of Practice is a key resource tool for farmers, growers and their advisers. The Code is about supplying nutrients for growing healthy food, while at the same time managing risk to the environment.
All farm systems are dependent on an adequate supply of essential nutrients, whether it is for cropping and horticulture or pasture for livestock. The role of fertiliser along with other sources of nutrients such as crop residue, nitrogen fixation, soil reserves, compost and effluent is to help ensure adequate levels of essential nutrients are present for plant growth and animal health.
The Code of Practice for fertiliser nutrient management is intended to provide clear principle-based guidance on supplying the nutrients for growing healthy food, while at the same time avoiding or minimising the loss of those nutrients to the environment. The Code is designed to be relevant for the emerging regulatory framework and provide guidance for farmers, growers and their advisers when developing nutrient budgets, nutrient management plans, farm plans and freshwater farm plans. It is also relevant for regional council planning and technical staff.
A hard copy of the Code is available on request. Request your copy by emailing info@fertiliser.org.nz.
The Code draws from a wide range of scientific literature. References used in developing the Code can be found here:
Further information about fertiliser use for a range of New Zealand farm systems can be found on our resources pages: