Gordon Rajendram the soil scientist

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Dr. Gordon Rajendram is a leading expert in soil fertility, providing comprehensive advice and solutions to optimise farm productivity and sustainability across New Zealand. Follow his articles here.

As New Zealand’s pastoral sector grapples with ever tighter environmental thresholds around nitrate leaching, the science of soil carbon is emerging as a critical frontier. Dr Gordon Rajendram emphasises that

Pictured above: Dr Gordon Rajendram and Mark Robertson (holding Humates) on a pumice soil farm in Taupo Leading Hamilton-based soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram says nitrate leaching has become one

One of New Zealand’s leading independent soil scientists, Dr Gordon Rajendram, is in Taranaki this week performing field trails for Tokoroa-based Blue Pacific Minerals (BPM). Dr Rajendram’s  field trials for

Introduction New Zealand farmers often face two major challenges: nutrient loss from soils and the impacts of dry conditions. Dr Gordon Rajendram says solid humates and biochar, both derived from

One of New Zealand’s leading soil scientists, Dr Gordon Rajendram, says foliar fertilisers hold the key to farmers overcoming Canterbury’s cool late winter/early spring major challenges for pasture growth. Dr

Tractor spraying fertilizer on crops in a New Zealand farm at sunrise

When it comes to growing healthy, productive crops, your plants often reveal what they need — you just have to know where to look. According to soil scientist Dr Gordon

Effluent pond on a New Zealand dairy farm with tractor in background, demonstrating best practices in farm waste management.

Effluent is not waste – it’s a nutrient-rich fertiliser source. When used properly, it can save money on synthetic fertiliser and support healthy soils. But when mismanaged, effluent can contaminate

Young maize plants growing in nutrient-rich soil under early morning sunlight on a New Zealand farm

Foliar fertiliser means spraying water-soluble nutrients directly onto plant leaves. In effect, it’s like a quick “vitamin boost” through the foliage. Research has long shown that leaves can absorb nutrients

Comparison chart of dry matter yield using granular and foliar nitrogen fertiliser treatments in a 24-day AgResearch trial

At the 2025 “Grow Grass in the Colder Months” Field Day, New Zealand soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram delivered an insightful talk on how strategic foliar fertiliser application is transforming

Tractor applying dairy effluent to farmland as part of sustainable soil nutrient management practices in New Zealand

According to New Zealand soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram, treated dairy effluent is far more than a waste product – it’s a valuable on-farm resource. When managed properly, this mixture

Dr. Gordon Rajendram standing confidently in a lush green pasture, representing leadership in soil science and fertiliser expertise in New Zealand.

This year’s dire drought situation in Taranaki has highlighted the need for the region’s farmers to take a closer look at how they manage their soil in the future. That’s

Hands holding light bulbs with green sustainability icons, symbolising eco-friendly innovation and long-term soil health solutions

Soil is the foundation of productive farming, yet it is often treated as an afterthought rather than a long-term investment. According to soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram, a sustainable soil

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