Progressive2026-07-15T15:57:17+12:00

Progressive

Our Progressive Program is designed for medium to large farms and orchards, offering tailored soil solutions and regenerative practices. We help reduce chemical reliance, boost productivity, and improve resilience, all while fostering healthier soil for sustainable growth.

Living up to your soil’s potential, made easy

The Progressive programme is built for farms that require in-depth soil management and ongoing support. We work closely with you to assess your soil’s needs and create a custom fertiliser plan. Our goal is to enhance soil productivity and sustainability, offering continuous advice to ensure your farm thrives through every season.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know what my soil actually needs?2026-07-15T15:54:55+12:00

We use soil and herbage testing through Brookside Laboratories – Ohio, US, which provides the level of detail required to make accurate decisions.

These tests measure Totals and Availables, along with key indicators such as mineral balance, trace elements, biological activity, aluminium levels, and plant nitrogen efficiency.

From this, we build a customised blend for your farm – no guesswork, no generic recipes, just accuracy.

Is this just another fertiliser product?2026-07-15T15:51:34+12:00

No.

Ecofarm is a soil system, not just a fertiliser. We address soil function, mineral balance, biological support, nutrient transfer, and trace elements as a complete system.

Everything starts with accurate soil testing, interpretation, and advice, so inputs are only used where they are genuinely needed.

The focus is on precision and function, not blanket application.

Do I need to reapply your fertilisers every year?2026-07-15T15:51:34+12:00

We typically recommend an annual application, but the blend and rate depend entirely on your soil tests.

Over time, inputs usually reduce as soil function improves and the system becomes more self-sustaining.

Will production fall if I stop using NPKS fertilisers?2026-07-15T15:54:55+12:00

No.

The focus is on identifying and correcting the limiting factors that allow nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur to cycle naturally in the soil. When those systems are functioning properly, production is maintained and often improves.

We regularly see large reserves of phosphorus in the Totals analysis, while the Availables appear low – which is why more is often applied. The role of the Ecofarm system is to unlock what is already there, rather than continually adding more.

The same principle applies to nitrogen, potassium and sulphur.

Will switching to Ecofarm increase my costs?2026-07-15T15:53:24+12:00

No – in most cases, the opposite happens.

As soil function improves, fertiliser inputs are reduced and a range of other costs begin to drop.

Farmers typically see:

  • Reduced reliance on chemical inputs, sprays and supplements
  • Lower diesel and machinery use
  • Reduced animal health issues and vet costs – with some farmers reporting significant drops in down cows (for example, from 50 to 6)
  • More consistent pasture growth and better resilience in wet and dry conditions
  • Less time spent on the tractor

Most find the system pays for itself and continues to reduce costs over time.

Do I have to stop using all chemicals immediately?2026-07-15T15:53:24+12:00

Often that is a good idea, however it is best discussed with us.

In some cases, an abrupt change can cause setbacks, so we take a practical approach – reducing dependency in a managed way as soil function improves.

Isn’t regeneration slow and risky?2026-07-15T15:54:55+12:00

We have found the opposite.

Our approach uses measurement, interpretation, and experience to reduce risk and maintain productivity. We aim to hold production in the first year, build in the second, and continue improving from there.

Alongside that, farmers often see wider benefits – less time spent on the tractor, easier day-to-day management, improved animal performance, and increased profitability.

How long does the whole process take?2026-07-15T15:51:34+12:00

From the time your agent visits and takes the soil samples, we allow about 3-4 weeks to get through to your recommendation.

In simple terms, the process is:

  1. You request a soil test
  2. An agent visits and takes the samples (or you can take them yourself using our DIY kit for smaller blocks)
  3. Samples are sent to Paeroa for processing, then forwarded to Brookside Laboratories – Ohio, US
  4. Brookside’s analysis typically takes around two weeks
  5. Your agent contacts you with recommendations and a quote
  6. You tell us when you want your blend made and supplied

If your timing isn’t right, that’s fine – the information can be held and used when you’re ready. Many farms gather the data first and implement later. Having it up your sleeve makes it easier to move when you decide to push the go button.

Let’s work together to create the greatest soil on earth

Discover how working with nature can unlock the potential of your farm. By focusing on improving soil health and using sustainable practices, you can enhance crop yields, boost animal health, and create a resilient, thriving farm. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your land’s needs and your vision for success.