Test Strips, Tough Seasons: What VRT Is Really Delivering
Farming practices have advanced significantly in recent years, particularly with the integration of technology. Variable Rate Technology (VRT) is one tool growers are using to better target inputs and manage yield variability.
In the latest MSF Farm Talk Podcast episode, we explore the insights and personal experiences of three growers as they discuss their use of VRT, test strips, and the challenges and benefits of applying these technologies on their farms. Their reflections offer a grounded look at what works, what doesn’t, and how strip trials can help build confidence in fertiliser and input management.
🎧 Listen to the full episode
David Daniel: Building Confidence Through Test Strips
Farming between Parilla and Pinnaroo, David Daniel grows a mix of oats, barley, lentils, lupins and canola alongside running sheep. After attending MSF VRT workshops, David has become an advocate for using test strips as a way to verify decisions rather than rely on assumptions.
This season, he set up fertiliser strips with different application rates to see how crops responded. Although visual differences were subtle during the growing season, the value comes in the data — helping confirm or challenge what’s happening in particular paddocks.
David’s key message is simple: “every farm is different”. Soil history, management practices and variability all influence outcomes, so running your own strips is the best way to build confidence in VRT decisions.
Adrian Bormann: Managing Variability and Playing the Long Game
At Sanderston, Adrian Bormann farms around 2,200 hectares with significant soil variability — and that diversity is exactly why he sees value in test strips. Adrian explains how he uses them to assess phosphorus strategies and track whether changes are helping lift productivity.
He runs different phosphorus rates across the farm and then compares results with harvest data to understand where adjustments might be worthwhile. Adrian encourages growers new to test strips to seek advice, start simply, and recognise that meaningful trends often take multiple seasons to emerge.
Adrian explains that effective VRT doesn’t always rely on the latest technology, and that a strong understanding of your farm can be just as valuable.
Nathan Paech: Proving (or Challenging) VRT Decisions
Farming near Tepko, Nathan Paech runs a mixed enterprise with sheep and broadacre cropping including wheat, barley, canola, lentils, oats and lupins. Nathan uses test strips as a way to double-check that VRT recommendations are on the mark and that no potential yield improvements are being missed.
He places strips at seeding and during urea applications to validate nutrient rates. Using tools like yield maps, satellite imagery and drones, Nathan maps soil types to refine his VRT plans and make nutrient decisions with greater confidence.
Nathan highlights that understanding variability is essential. The better you know your soils, the more targeted and efficient your fertiliser strategy can become.
Wrapping Up
A huge thank you to David, Adrian and Nathan for sharing their experiences. Their stories highlight that VRT isn’t about technology for technology’s sake — it’s about using simple tools like test strips to make smarter decisions, reduce risk and keep learning season after season.
If you’re interested in exploring VRT or strip trials on your own farm, visit the MSF website for resources, workshops and grower case studies.
https://mfi.greecosy.us/projects/demonstrating-soil-zone-mapping/
🎙️ Like and subscribe to the MSF Farm Talk Podcast for more grower insights and practical agronomy conversations.
