Every paddock already holds nutrient.
Some applied.
Some already in the soil.
Some not available to the crop.
Some lost – including nitrogen to the atmosphere – before it’s used.
Nutrient Use Efficiency is about how nutrients move through that system – not just how much is applied.
Where Nutrients are Lost or Tied Up
In most systems, not all nutrients applied or present end up in the crop.
Instead, they can be:
- Lost after application (e.g. nitrogen lost to the atmosphere)
- Not available to the crop
- Tied up in organic matter
- Uneven through the fertiliser band
- Out of step with crop demand
This happens every season, even in well-managed programs.
What We’re Trying to Improve
The aim is straightforward:
- Keep nutrients in the system
- Reduce loss after application
- Make better use of what’s already there
- Improve availability to the crop
- Give more consistent access across the paddock
Both applied nutrient and existing soil nutrient play a role.
How Tanuki Approaches NUE
Different products address different parts of the system.
Protect applied nitrogen
Nitrogen stabilisers slow key loss pathways, helping keep nitrogen in the soil after application and reduce volatilisation losses.
Improve access to soil nutrient
Enzyme technologies support the breakdown of organic material, helping convert nutrients into forms the plant can use.
Support crop uptake
Better access early, and more consistent availability throughout the season, supports crop establishment and growth.
Formulation and delivery also play a role, helping nutrients remain where they’re placed and available to the crop.
Where NUE Fits
These products sit alongside standard fertiliser programs.
Depending on the system and season, they can help:
Reduce loss from applied nitrogen (e.g. volatilisation)
Improve availability of nutrients already in the soil
Improve consistency across the paddock
Support early crop growth
They’re used where they add value – not as a blanket approach.
The Tanuki Approach
We keep it practical.
Products with a clear role
Straightforward application
Backed by field use
Reducing loss, improving availability and supporting crop uptake.
Start With What’s Already There
Before increasing inputs, it’s important to look at what’s already happening:
What nutrient is in the soil
What’s not available to the crop
What’s being lost
That’s where NUE products can make a difference.
Our Range
To add value to your current program, explore our range of nutrient use efficiency products.
Talk to us!
If you’re looking at how to get more from your nutrient program – whether that’s applied fertiliser or what’s already in the soil – we can help work through what fits.
