Effects of perennial (‘Russell’) lupins on soil nitrogen and carbon in acid high-country soils

Content Partner: Lincoln University. Many high-country soils in the South Island have low soil pH and high exchangeable Al concentrations, limiting establishment and persistence of pasture and forage legumes. Perennial lupin (Lupinus polyphyllus) is able to grow in acidic soil (pH3ppm, 0.01 CaCl2) toxic to most other legumes. This study examined the effects of perennial lupin stands of varying ages on soil nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) concentrations (0-15 cm). Eight lupin sites, varying in age, and neighbouring long-term pasture sites were soil sampled and analysed for N and C concentrations. Sites planted with perennial lupin had significantly (P