Register      Login
Soil Research Soil Research Society
Soil, land care and environmental research
REVIEW

Impact of soil organic matter on soil properties—a review with emphasis on Australian soils

B. W. Murphy
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

Honorary Scientific Fellow, NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, Cowra, NSW, Australia; Visiting Fellow, Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia. Email: Brian.amaroo@bigpond.com

Soil Research 53(6) 605-635 https://doi.org/10.1071/SR14246
Submitted: 4 September 2014  Accepted: 10 July 2015   Published: 11 September 2015

Abstract

A review has been undertaken into how soil organic matter (SOM) affects a range of soil properties that are important for the productive capacity of soils. The potential effect of varying the amount of SOM in soil on a range of individual soil properties was investigated using a literature search of published information largely from Australia, but also including relevant information from overseas. The soil properties considered included aggregate stability, bulk density, water-holding capacity, soil erodibility, soil colour, soil strength, compaction characteristics, friability, nutrient cycling, cation exchange capacity, soil acidity and buffering capacity, capacity to form ligands and complexes, salinity, and the interaction of SOM with soil biology. Increases in SOM have the capacity to have strong influence only the physical properties of the surface soils, perhaps only the top 10 cm, or the top 20 cm at most. This limits the capacity of SOM to influence soil productivity. Even so, the top 20 cm is a critical zone for the soil. It is where seeds are sown, germinate and emerge. It is where a large proportion of plant materials are added to the soil for decomposition and recycling of nutrients and where rainfall either enters the soil or runs off. Therefore, the potential to improve soil condition in the top 0–20 cm is still critical for plant productivity. The SOM through nutrient cycling such as mineralisation of organic nitrogen to nitrate can have an influence on the soil profile.

Additional keywords: cation exchange capacity, nutrient cycling, soil organic carbon, soil organic matter, soil properties, water-holding capacity.


References

Aitken RL (1992) Relationships between extractable Al, selected soil properties, pH buffering capacity and lime requirement in some acidic Queensland soils. Australian Journal of Soil Research 30, 119–130.
Relationships between extractable Al, selected soil properties, pH buffering capacity and lime requirement in some acidic Queensland soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK38XitlCms7o%3D&md5=fccac241ed88a1519454e3a43641d749CAS |

Aitken RL, Moody PW, McKinley PG (1990) Lime requirement of acidic Queensland soils. I. Relationships between soil properties and pH buffer capacity. Australian Journal of Soil Research 28, 695–701.
Lime requirement of acidic Queensland soils. I. Relationships between soil properties and pH buffer capacity.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK3MXmsFGjt7c%3D&md5=b0e30ecdda7dc785d40a6d53f638d4e0CAS |

Aitken RL, Moody PW, Dickson T (1998) Field amelioration of acidic soils in south east Queensland. I. Effect of amendments on soil properties. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 49, 627–637.
Field amelioration of acidic soils in south east Queensland. I. Effect of amendments on soil properties.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK1cXjtVSjtLk%3D&md5=b2872177ea16d7861f9958599f476c67CAS |

Allison FE (1973) Soil organic matter and its role in crop production. In ‘Developments in soil science 3’. (Elsevier Scientific Publishing Company: Amsterdam)

Alvarez R, Evans LA, Milham PJ, Wilson MA (2004) Effects of humic material on the precipitation of calcium phosphate. Geoderma 118, 245–260.
Effects of humic material on the precipitation of calcium phosphate.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD2cXjslylsw%3D%3D&md5=99d7c9daee097fec44f615ad5d3af26bCAS |

Andales AA, Batchelor WD, Anderson CE, Farnham DE, Whigham DK (2000) Incorporating tillage effects into a soybean model. Agricultural Systems 66, 69–98.
Incorporating tillage effects into a soybean model.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Angers DA, Carter MR (1996) Aggregation and organic matter storage in cool, humid agricultural soils. In ‘Structure and organic matter in agricultural soils’. (Eds MR Carter, BA Stewart) pp. 193–211. (CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL, USA)

Angus JF, Bolger TP, Kirkegaard JA, Peoples MB (2006) Nitrogen mineralisation in relation to previous crops and pastures. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 355–365.
Nitrogen mineralisation in relation to previous crops and pastures.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD28XmtFKgsL4%3D&md5=e3299e0c3af3e3cb55fff41b77dd0b03CAS |

Atterberg A (1911) Uber die physikalische Bodenuntersuchung und uber die Plastizitat der Tone. Udi. Internationale Mitteilungen fur Bodenkunde 1, 10–43.

Baidoo E, Ephraim JH, Darko G, Akoto O (2014) Potentiometric studies of the acid–base properties of tropical humic acids. Geoderma 217–218, 18–25.
Potentiometric studies of the acid–base properties of tropical humic acids.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Baldock JA, Skjemstad JO (1999) Soil organic carbon/Soil organic matter. In ‘Soil analysis—an interpretation manual’. (Eds KI Peverill, LA Sparrow, DJ Reuter) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Baldock JA, Sanderman J, MacDonald LM, Puccinin A, Hawke B, Svarvas S, McGowan J (2013) Quantifying the allocation of soil organic carbon to biologically significant fractions. Soil Research 51, 561–576.
Quantifying the allocation of soil organic carbon to biologically significant fractions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3sXhvF2ktbbL&md5=6ac92230ef0514ae7e73a4914c1b210eCAS |

Barnett SJ, Roget DK, Ryder MH (2006) Suppression of Rhizoctonia solani AG-8 induced disease on wheat by the interaction between Pantoea, Exiguobacterium and Microbacteria. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 331–342.
Suppression of Rhizoctonia solani AG-8 induced disease on wheat by the interaction between Pantoea, Exiguobacterium and Microbacteria.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Barrow NJ (1969) Accumulation of organic matter under pastures. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture and Animal Husbandry 9, 437–444.
Accumulation of organic matter under pastures.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Barthès BG, Kouakoua E, Larré-Larrouy M, Razafimbelo TM, de Luca EF, Azontonde A, Neves CSVJ, de Freitas PL, Feller CL (2008) Texture and sesquioxide effects on water-stable aggregates and organic matter in some tropical soils. Geoderma 143, 14–25.
Texture and sesquioxide effects on water-stable aggregates and organic matter in some tropical soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Becquer A, Trap J, Irshad U, Ali MA, Claude P (2014) From soil to plant, the journey of P through trophic relationships and ectomycorrhizal association. Frontiers in Plant Science 5, 548–554.
From soil to plant, the journey of P through trophic relationships and ectomycorrhizal association.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 25360140PubMed |

Bell MJ, Moody PW, Yo SA, Connolly RD (1999) Using active fractions of soil carbon as indicators of the sustainability of Ferrosol farming systems. Australian Journal of Soil Research 37, 279–287.
Using active fractions of soil carbon as indicators of the sustainability of Ferrosol farming systems.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bell M, Seymour N, Stirling GR, Stirling AM, Van Zwieten , Vancov T, Sutton G, Moody P (2006) Impacts of management on soil biota in Vertosols supporting the broadacre grains industry in northern Australia. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 433–451.
Impacts of management on soil biota in Vertosols supporting the broadacre grains industry in northern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blair GJ, Lefroy RDB, Lisle L (1995) Soil carbon fractions based on their degree of oxidation, and the development of a Carbon Management Index for agricultural systems. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 46, 1459–1466.
Soil carbon fractions based on their degree of oxidation, and the development of a Carbon Management Index for agricultural systems.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bolan NS (1991) A critical review on the role of mycorrhizal fungi in the uptake of phosphorus by plants. Plant and Soil 134, 189–207.
A critical review on the role of mycorrhizal fungi in the uptake of phosphorus by plants.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK3MXltFenu7o%3D&md5=7009a5913f01552f186ee1705fe0ff0eCAS |

Bolan NS, Robson AD, Barrow NJ, Aylmore LAG (1984) Specific activity of phosphorus in mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants in relation to the availability of phosphorus to plants. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 16, 299–304.
Specific activity of phosphorus in mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants in relation to the availability of phosphorus to plants.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL2cXmtV2rtrg%3D&md5=c43d29a42b6d60953d3b2ced99f86d52CAS |

Braunack MV, Dexter AR (1989) Soil aggregation in the seedbed: a review. II. Effect of aggregate sizes on plant growth. Soil & Tillage Research 14, 281–298.
Soil aggregation in the seedbed: a review. II. Effect of aggregate sizes on plant growth.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Brewer R, Blackmore AV (1976) Subplasticity in Australian soils. II. Relationships between subplasticity rating, optically orientated clay, cementation and aggregate stability. Australian Journal of Soil Research 14, 237–248.
Subplasticity in Australian soils. II. Relationships between subplasticity rating, optically orientated clay, cementation and aggregate stability.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaE2sXivVymsQ%3D%3D&md5=d153135c1f98cf70e52b2f5ba68717b2CAS |

Bronick CJ, Lal R (2005) Soil structure and management: A review. Geoderma 124, 3–22.
Soil structure and management: A review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD2cXhtVOru7jP&md5=eac6dd8b292d5c276178d6cad8e399aeCAS |

Brown SC, Payne D (1990) Frost action in clay soil. Journal of Soil Science 41, 535–561.
Frost action in clay soil.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bücking H, Shachar-Hill Y (2005) Phosphate uptake, transport and transfer by the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Glomus intraradicesis stimulated by increased carbohydrate availability. New Phytologist 165, 899–912.
Phosphate uptake, transport and transfer by the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Glomus intraradicesis stimulated by increased carbohydrate availability.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 15720701PubMed |

Burns RG, De Forest JL, Marxsen J, Sinsabaugh RL, Stromberger ME, Wallenstein MD, Weintraub MN, Zoppin A (2013) Soil enzymes in a changing environment: Current knowledge and future directions. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 58, 216–234.
Soil enzymes in a changing environment: Current knowledge and future directions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3sXivFymsLY%3D&md5=0327ca6cf694304131d79137867d996cCAS |

Burris RH (2002) Biological nitrogen fixation. In ‘Encyclopedia of soil science’. (Ed. R. Lal) (Marcel Dekker: New York)

Campbell GS (1974) A simple model for determining unsaturated conductivity from moisture retention data. Soil Science 117, 311–314.
A simple model for determining unsaturated conductivity from moisture retention data.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Caravaca F, Lax A, Albaladejo J (1999) Organic matter, nutrient contents and cation exchange capacity in fine fractions from semiarid calcareous soils. Geoderma 93, 161–176.
Organic matter, nutrient contents and cation exchange capacity in fine fractions from semiarid calcareous soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3cXns1yq&md5=9561f253b8195ecf5f3728c2c720efffCAS |

Carter MR (1992) Influence of reduced tillage systems on organic matter, microbial biomass, macroaggregate distribution and structural stability of the surface soil in a humid climate. Soil & Tillage Research 23, 361–372.
Influence of reduced tillage systems on organic matter, microbial biomass, macroaggregate distribution and structural stability of the surface soil in a humid climate.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Carter MR, Angers DA, Kunelius HT (1994) Soil structural form and stability and organic matter under cool-season perennial grasses. Soil Science Society of America Journal 58, 1194–1199.
Soil structural form and stability and organic matter under cool-season perennial grasses.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Chan KY, Mead A (1988) Physical properties of a sandy loam under different tillage practices. Australian Journal of Soil Research 26, 549–559.
Physical properties of a sandy loam under different tillage practices.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Chan KY, Roberts WP, Heenan DP (1992) Organic carbon and associated soil properties of a red earth after 10 years of rotation under different stubble and tillage practices. Australian Journal of Soil Research 30, 71–83.
Organic carbon and associated soil properties of a red earth after 10 years of rotation under different stubble and tillage practices.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Chan KY, Oates A, Li GD, Conyers MK, Prangnell RJ, Polie G, Liu DL, Barchia IM (2010) Soil carbon stocks under different pastures and pasture management in the higher rainfall areas of south-eastern Australia. Australian Journal of Soil Research 48, 7–15.
Soil carbon stocks under different pastures and pasture management in the higher rainfall areas of south-eastern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3cXisVCgtbc%3D&md5=c7e8efe4f3a17e56f3459d337bf95963CAS |

Chaney K, Swift RS (1984) The influence of organic matter on aggregate stability in some British soils. Journal of Soil Science 35, 223–230.
The influence of organic matter on aggregate stability in some British soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL2cXltV2mtbg%3D&md5=2682077d2ded59cd227bb5946831fc45CAS |

Chenu C, Le Bissonnais Y, Arrouays D (2000) Organic matter influence on clay wettability and soil aggregate stability. Soil Science Society of America Journal 64, 1479–1486.
Organic matter influence on clay wettability and soil aggregate stability.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3cXmsF2hsrs%3D&md5=301979e9694e7a90b3f67971bb7599ecCAS |

Churchman GJ, Skjemstad JO, Oades JM (1993) Influence of clay minerals and organic matter on effects of sodicity on soils. Australian Journal of Soil Research 31, 779–800.
Influence of clay minerals and organic matter on effects of sodicity on soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK2cXktlCjtrc%3D&md5=9a130727094b220ec767997cf292c0b3CAS |

Clarke AL, Greenland DJ, Quirk JP (1967) Changes in some physical properties of the surface of an impoverished red-brown earth. Australian Journal of Soil Research 5, 59–68.
Changes in some physical properties of the surface of an impoverished red-brown earth.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Conyers M, Newton P, Condon J, Poil G, Mele P, Ash G (2012) Three long-term trials end with a quasi-equilibrium between C, N and pH and implication for C sequestration. Soil Research 50, 527–535.
Three long-term trials end with a quasi-equilibrium between C, N and pH and implication for C sequestration.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC38Xhs12jsrvK&md5=dbeb9937d5fbecbc3e9bf7c32d170938CAS |

Cresswell HP, Paydar Z (1996) Water retention in Australian soils. I. Description and prediction using parametric function. Australian Journal of Soil Research 34, 195–212.
Water retention in Australian soils. I. Description and prediction using parametric function.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

da Silva AP, Kay BD (1997) Estimating the least limiting water range of soils from properties and management. Soil Science Society of America Journal 61, 877–883.
Estimating the least limiting water range of soils from properties and management.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK2sXjvVOqsL8%3D&md5=8bc282c9a5b179609d9b9565eb45e0beCAS |

Dalal RC (1998) Soil microbial biomass—what do the numbers really mean? Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 38, 649–665.
Soil microbial biomass—what do the numbers really mean?Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dalal RC, Wang W, Robertson GP, Parton WJ (2003) Nitrous oxide emission from Australian agricultural lands and mitigation options: a review. Australian Journal of Soil Research 41, 165–195.
Nitrous oxide emission from Australian agricultural lands and mitigation options: a review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3sXktFKisr8%3D&md5=207b19866924d44a696cc4ace7867060CAS |

Davy MC, Koen TB (2013) Variations in the soil organic carbon for two soil types and six land uses in the Murray Catchment, New South Wales, Australia. Soil Research 51, 631–644.
Variations in the soil organic carbon for two soil types and six land uses in the Murray Catchment, New South Wales, Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3sXhvF2ktbbF&md5=0b7121a19259cddc094d96fa3a065112CAS |

Degens BP (1997) Macro-aggregation of soils by biological bonding and binding mechanisms and the factors that affect these: A review. Australian Journal of Soil Research 35, 431–460.
Macro-aggregation of soils by biological bonding and binding mechanisms and the factors that affect these: A review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Degens BP, Schipper LA, Sparling GP, Vojvodic-Vukovic M (2000) Decreases in organic C reserves in soil can reduce catabolic diversity of soil microbial communities. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 32, 189–196.
Decreases in organic C reserves in soil can reduce catabolic diversity of soil microbial communities.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3cXhsVyhsrw%3D&md5=3cce6c315528a63a7973a8c2089d55c3CAS |

Degens BP, Schipper LA, Sparling GP, Duncan LC (2001) Is the microbial community in a soil with reduced catabolic diversity less resistant to stress or disturbance? Soil Biology & Biochemistry 33, 1143–1153.
Is the microbial community in a soil with reduced catabolic diversity less resistant to stress or disturbance?Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3MXlsV2jsr8%3D&md5=4eacdbfbe3fd4a170a01185ed14b4833CAS |

Dexter AR (1988) Advances in characterization of soil structure. Soil & Tillage Research 11, 199–238.
Advances in characterization of soil structure.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Donahue Rl, Miller RW, Schickluna JC (1983) ‘Soils: an introduction to soils and plant growth.’ (Prentice-Hall International: Upper Saddle River, NJ, USA)

Duiker SW, Rhoton FE, Torrent J, Smeck NE, Lal R (2003) Iron (hydr)oxide crystallinity effects on soil aggregation. Soil Science Society of America Journal 67, 606–611.
Iron (hydr)oxide crystallinity effects on soil aggregation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3sXkslChsbg%3D&md5=1dde8689b813b952448d26e2e55a28cbCAS |

Edwards LM (1991) The effect of alternate freezing and thawing on aggregate stability and aggregate size distribution of some Prince Edward island soils. Journal of Soil Science 42, 193–204.
The effect of alternate freezing and thawing on aggregate stability and aggregate size distribution of some Prince Edward island soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Edwards K, Zierholz C (2007) Soil formation and erosion rates. In ‘Soils—their properties and management’. 3rd edn (Eds Peter EV Charman, Brian W Murphy) (Oxford University Press: Melbourne)

Ekwue EI (1990) Organic matter effects on soil strength properties. Soil & Tillage Research 16, 289–297.
Organic matter effects on soil strength properties.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Emerson WW (1993) Interparticle bonding. In ‘Soils: an Australian viewpoint’. (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Emerson WW, McGarry D (2003) Organic carbon and soil porosity. Australian Journal of Soil Research 41, 107–118.
Organic carbon and soil porosity.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Fenton G, Helyar K (2007) Soil acidification. In ‘Soils—their properties and management’. 3rd edn (Eds PEV Charman, BW Murphy) (Oxford University Press: Melbourne)

Fontvieille DA, Outaguerouine A, Thevenot DR (1992) Fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis as a measure of microbial activity in aquatic systems: application to activated sludges. Environmental Technology 13, 531–540.
Fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis as a measure of microbial activity in aquatic systems: application to activated sludges.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK38XmsFOgtbw%3D&md5=f378e11e6650c4febea6f0de61f82ca2CAS |

Foster RC (1993) The plant root environment. In ‘Soils: an Australian viewpoint’. (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Galloway JN, Cowling EB (2002) Reactive nitrogen and the world: 200 years of change. Ambio 31, 64–71.
Reactive nitrogen and the world: 200 years of change.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 12078011PubMed |

Geeves GW, Leys JF, Mctainsh GH (2007a) Soil erodibility to water and wind. In ‘Soils—their properties and management’. 3rd edn (Eds PEV Charman, BW Murphy) (Oxford University Press: Melbourne)

Geeves GW, Craze B, Hamilton GH (2007b) Soil physical properties. In ‘Soils—their properties and management’. 3rd edn (Eds PEV Charman, BW Murphy) (Oxford University Press: Melbourne)

Gibson TS, Chan KY, Sharma G, Shearman R (2002) Soil carbon sequestration utilising recycled organics—A review of the scientific literature. Project 00/01R-3.2.6A. The Organic Waste Recycling Unit, NSW Agriculture. Report prepared for Resource NSW. Available at: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/warr/SPD_ORG_0208SoilCarbonSeq.pdf

Gillman GP (1985) Influence of organic matter and phosphate content on the point zero charge of variable charge components in Oxidic soils. Australian Journal of Soil Research 23, 643–646.
Influence of organic matter and phosphate content on the point zero charge of variable charge components in Oxidic soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL28XjtlCktg%3D%3D&md5=e2643b41ff2ac09197b1ff55f7dd3f4eCAS |

Gillman GP, Sumpter EA (1986) Surface charge characteristics and lime requirements of soils derived from basaltic, granitic and metamorphic rocks in high-rainfall tropical Queensland. Australian Journal of Soil Research 24, 173–192.
Surface charge characteristics and lime requirements of soils derived from basaltic, granitic and metamorphic rocks in high-rainfall tropical Queensland.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL28XkvFKnurs%3D&md5=863db13953cc22082ae339a0c2f264aeCAS |

Gonzalez-Quinoñes V, Stockdale EA, Banning NC, Hoyle FC, Sawada Y, Wherrett AD, Jones DL, Murphy DV (2011) Soil microbial biomass—interpretation and consideration for soil monitoring. Soil Research 49, 287–304.
Soil microbial biomass—interpretation and consideration for soil monitoring.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Grant CD, Blackmore AV (1991) Self-mulching behaviour in clay soils: Its definition and measurement. Australian Journal of Soil Research 29, 155–173.
Self-mulching behaviour in clay soils: Its definition and measurement.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Guppy CN, Menzies NW, Moody PW, Blamey FPC (2005) Competitive sorption reactions between phosphorus and organic matter in soil: A review. Australian Journal of Soil Research 43, 189–202.
Competitive sorption reactions between phosphorus and organic matter in soil: A review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD2MXivVOju78%3D&md5=31efffde619160d64b505b7fca05f036CAS |

Gupta VVSR, Roper MM, Roget DK (2006) Potential for non-symbiotic N2-fixation in different agroecological zones of southern Australia. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 343–354.
Potential for non-symbiotic N2-fixation in different agroecological zones of southern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD28XmtFKgs7k%3D&md5=44ebf9d2e8b4960868e9b5e642d286deCAS |

Hallsworth EG, Wilkinson GK (1958) The contribution of clay and organic matter to the cation exchange capacity of soils. The Journal of Agricultural Science 51, 1–3.
The contribution of clay and organic matter to the cation exchange capacity of soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaG1MXptFSrsw%3D%3D&md5=327f19c61fa95013de61e4a028213b55CAS |

Hamblin A (1987) The effect of tillage on soil physical conditions. In ‘Tillage—new directions in Australian agriculture’. (Eds PS Cornish, JE Pratley) (Inkata Press: Melbourne)

Hamblin A, Kyneur G (1993) ‘Trends in wheat yields and soil fertility in Australia.’ (Department of Primary Industries and Energy. Bureau of Resource Sciences, Australian Government Publishing Service: Canberra, ACT)

Hargrove WL, Thomas GW (1981) Effect of organic matter on exchangeable aluminium and plant growth in acid soils. In ‘Chemistry in the soil environment’. (American Society of Agronomy and Soil Science Society of America: Madison, WI, USA)

Haynes RJ (2000) Interactions between soil organic matter status, cropping history, method of quantification and sample pre-treatment and their effects on measured aggregate stability. Biology and Fertility of Soils 30, 270–275.
Interactions between soil organic matter status, cropping history, method of quantification and sample pre-treatment and their effects on measured aggregate stability.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Hazelton P, Murphy B (2007) ‘Interpreting soil test—What do all the numbers mean?’ (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Helling KR, Chesters G, Corey RB (1964) Contribution of soil organic matter and clay to soil cation exchange capacity as affected by pH on the saturation solution. Soil Science Society of America Proceedings 28, 517–520.
Contribution of soil organic matter and clay to soil cation exchange capacity as affected by pH on the saturation solution.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaF2cXks1yhtr0%3D&md5=696f61d3473e2345252244c70388c1dbCAS |

Helyar KR, Porter WM (1989) Soil acidification, its measurement and the process involved. In ‘Soil acidity and plant growth’. (Ed. AD Robson) pp. 61–102. (Academic Press: Sydney)

Helyar KR, Cregan PD, Godyn DL (1990) Soil acidity in New South Wales—current pH values and estimates of acidification rates. Australian Journal of Soil Research 28, 523–537.
Soil acidity in New South Wales—current pH values and estimates of acidification rates.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK3cXlslSqtr8%3D&md5=e0b8a5e6cf26852488880838f6705539CAS |

Herridge D (2011) Managing legumes and fertiliser N for northern grains cropping. DRDC Project UNE00014. GRDC, Barton, ACT.

Hicks RW (2007) Soil engineering properties. In ‘Soils—their properties and management’. 3rd edn (Eds PEV Charman, BW Murphy) (Oxford University Press: Melbourne)

Himes FL (1998) Nitrogen, sulphur and phosphorus and the sequestration of carbon. In ‘Soil processes and the carbon cycle’. (Eds R Lal et al.) pp. 315–319. (CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL, USA)

Hoyle FC, Murphy DV (2006) Seasonal changes in microbial function and diversity associated with stubble retention versus burning. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 407–423.
Seasonal changes in microbial function and diversity associated with stubble retention versus burning.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Hoyle FC, D’Antuono M, Overheu T, Murphy DV (2013) Capacity for increasing soil organic carbon stocks in dryland agricultural systems. Soil Research 51, 657–667.
Capacity for increasing soil organic carbon stocks in dryland agricultural systems.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3sXhvF2ktbbJ&md5=cda783919b33c42fbfe20e69601d35b0CAS |

Huang PM (2004) Soil mineral–organic matter–microorganism interactions: fundamentals and impacts. Advances in Agronomy 82, 391–472.
Soil mineral–organic matter–microorganism interactions: fundamentals and impacts.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD2MXnvVymsA%3D%3D&md5=b2cee46b7164547c9df27a010f2c29c2CAS |

Hudson BD (1994) Soil organic matter and available water capacity. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 49, 189–194.

Ibekwe AM, Kennedy AC (1999) Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles as a tool to investigate community structure of two agricultural soils. Plant and Soil 206, 151–161.
Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles as a tool to investigate community structure of two agricultural soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Insam H (2001) Developments in soil microbiology since the mid 1960s. Geoderma 100, 389–402.
Developments in soil microbiology since the mid 1960s.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3MXjt12mt70%3D&md5=4459b28cc665531ff8afc39588ca37f0CAS |

Isbell RF (2002) ‘The Australian Soil Classification.’ (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Janzen HH (2006) The soil carbon dilemma: Shall we hoard it or use it? Soil Biology & Biochemistry 38, 419–424.
The soil carbon dilemma: Shall we hoard it or use it?Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD28XhsF2jsro%3D&md5=666b0be77064133f973dfcf3556a11c3CAS |

Jastrow JD (1996) Soil aggregate formation and the accrual of particulate and mineral associated organic matter. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 28, 665–676.
Soil aggregate formation and the accrual of particulate and mineral associated organic matter.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK28XjvF2it7g%3D&md5=dee3cced4bb9321f933545235c4e686cCAS |

Kay BD (1998) Soil structure and organic matter: A review. Ch. 13. In ‘Soil processes and the carbon cycle’. (Eds Rattan Lal, John M Kimble, Ronald F Follett, Bobby A Stewart) (CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL, USA)

Kay BD, Angers DA (1999) Soil structure. In ‘Handbook of soil science’. (Ed. ME Sumner) (CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL, USA)

Kay BD, da Silva AP, Baldock JA (1997) Sensitivity of soil structure to changes in organic carbon content using pedotransfer functions. Canadian Journal of Soil Research 77, 655–667.
Sensitivity of soil structure to changes in organic carbon content using pedotransfer functions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Keating BA, Carberry PS, Hammer GL, Probert ME, Robertson MJ, Holzworth D, Huth NI, Hargreaves JNG, Meinke H, Hochman Z, McLean G, Verburg K, Snow V, Dimes JP, Silburn M, Wang E, Brown S, Bristow KL, Asseng S, Chapman S, McCown RL, Freebairn DM, Smith CJ (2003) An overview of APSIM, a model designed for farming systems simulation. European Journal of Agronomy 18, 267–288.
An overview of APSIM, a model designed for farming systems simulation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Keller T, Dexter A (2012) Plastic limits of agricultural soils as functions of soil texture and organic matter. Soil Research 50, 7–17.
Plastic limits of agricultural soils as functions of soil texture and organic matter.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kirkby CA (2002) Liquid and plastic limits. In ‘Soil physical measurement and interpretation for land evaluation’. (Eds N McKenzie, K Coughlan, H Cresswell) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Kirkby CA, Kirkegaard JA, Richardson AE, Wade LJ, Blanchard C, Batten G (2011) Stable soil organic matter: A comparison of C:N:P:S ratios in Australian and other world soils. Geoderma 163, 197–208.
Stable soil organic matter: A comparison of C:N:P:S ratios in Australian and other world soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3MXnt1amsr0%3D&md5=43ef36f0c0790b444ea9e435b58eb8eaCAS |

Krull ES, Skjemstad JO, Baldock JA (2004) Functions of Soil organic matter and the effect on soil properties. GRDC Project No. CSO 00029: Residue, Soil Organic Carbon and Crop Performance. CSIRO Land & Water, Urrbrae, S. Aust.

Lehman RM, Cambardella CA, Stott DE, Acosta-Martinez V, Manter DK, Buyer JS, Maul JE, Smith JL, Collins HP, Halvorson JJ, Kremer RJ, Lundgren JG, Ducey TF, Lin VL, Karlen DL (2015a) Understanding and enhancing soil biological health: The solution to reversing soil degradation. Sustainability 7, 988–1027.
Understanding and enhancing soil biological health: The solution to reversing soil degradation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Lehman RM, Acosta-Martinez V, Buyer JS, Cambardella CA, Collins HP, Ducey TF, Halvorson JJ, Jin VL, Johnson JMF, Kremer RJ, Lundgren JG, Manter DK, Maul JE, Smith JL, Stott DE (2015b) Soil biology for resilient, healthy soil. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 70, 12A–18A.
Soil biology for resilient, healthy soil.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Leys J, Semple W, Raupach M, Findlater P, Hamilton GJ (2002) Measurement of size distributions of dry soil aggregates. In ‘Soil physical measurement and interpretation for land evaluation’. (Eds N McKenzie, K Coughlan, H Cresswell) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Loch RJ, Foley JL (1994) Measurement of aggregate breakdown under rain. Comparison with tests of water stability and relationship with field measurement of infiltration. Australian Journal of Soil Research 32, 701–720.
Measurement of aggregate breakdown under rain. Comparison with tests of water stability and relationship with field measurement of infiltration.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Lopes AS, Cox FR (1977) A study of the fertility status of surface soils under “cerrado” vegetation in Brazil. Soil Science Society of America Journal 41, 742–747.
A study of the fertility status of surface soils under “cerrado” vegetation in Brazil.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaE2sXlvF2rt7k%3D&md5=9dd625a56093ba06f72ed012faaddc04CAS |

Loveland P, Webb J (2003) Is there a critical level of organic matter in the agricultural soils of temperate regions: a review. Soil & Tillage Research 70, 1–18.
Is there a critical level of organic matter in the agricultural soils of temperate regions: a review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Lynch JM (1984) Interactions between biological processes, cultivation and soil structure. Plant and Soil 76, 307–318.
Interactions between biological processes, cultivation and soil structure.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

MacDonald LM, Baldock JA (2010) Manipulating soil carbon and nutrients: advancing understanding of soil nutrient cycling using approaches based on ecological stoichiometry. National Research Flagships, Sustainable Agriculture, CSIRO Land and Water, S. Aust./GRDC, Barton, ACT.

Macks SP, Murphy BW, Cresswell HP, Koen TB (1996) Soil friability in relation to management history and suitability for direct drilling. Australian Journal of Soil Research 34, 343–360.
Soil friability in relation to management history and suitability for direct drilling.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Manrique LA, Jones CA (1991) Bulk density of soils in relation to physical and chemical properties. Soil Science Society of America Journal 55, 476–481.
Bulk density of soils in relation to physical and chemical properties.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK3MXit1OqsLs%3D&md5=6b1beaea6780e8a853015aeca18e07efCAS |

Marchuk A, Rengasamy P (2012) Threshold electrolyte concentration and dispersive potential in relation to CROSS in dispersive soils. Soil Research 50, 473–481.
Threshold electrolyte concentration and dispersive potential in relation to CROSS in dispersive soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC38Xhtl2lsL%2FM&md5=a8779d85aeff218c29960a9c32568440CAS |

Martin JK (1993) Biology of the rhizosphere. In ‘Soils: an Australian viewpoint’. (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Marx MC, Wood M, Jarvis SC (2001) A microplate fluorometric assay for the study of enzyme diversity in soils. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 33, 1633–1640.
A microplate fluorometric assay for the study of enzyme diversity in soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3MXotFOltbk%3D&md5=1c484193ff650d5169b78c7a67d89b66CAS |

McCaig AE, Glover LA, Prosser JI (1999) Molecular analysis of bacterial community structure and diversity in unimproved and improved upland grass pastures. Applied Environmental Microbiology 65, 1721–1730.

McGill WB, Cole CV (1981) Comparative aspects of cycling organic C, N, S and P through soil organic matter. Geoderma 26, 267–286.
Comparative aspects of cycling organic C, N, S and P through soil organic matter.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL38XhvFSltQ%3D%3D&md5=da63dc5f58264fc3e1128f1e0a51c76dCAS |

McIntyre DS (1955) Effect of soil structure on wheat germination in a red-brown earth. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 6, 797–803.
Effect of soil structure on wheat germination in a red-brown earth.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McKenzie N, Jacquier D, Isbell R, Brown K (2004) ‘Australian soils and landscapes—An illustrated compendium.’ (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

McLaughlin MJ, McBeath TM, Smernik R, Stacey SP, Ajiboye B, Guppy C (2011) The chemical nature of P accumulation in agricultural soils—implications for fertiliser management and design: an Australian perspective. Plant and Soil 349, 69–87.
The chemical nature of P accumulation in agricultural soils—implications for fertiliser management and design: an Australian perspective.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3MXhsFKntbzP&md5=1bb1f16510cc3e8270adeca83f7f3096CAS |

McLeod MK, Schwenke GD, Cowie AL, Harden S (2013) Soil carbon is only higher in the surface under minimum tillage in Vertosols and Chromosols of New South Wales North West Slopes and Plains, Australia. Soil Research 51, 680–694.
Soil carbon is only higher in the surface under minimum tillage in Vertosols and Chromosols of New South Wales North West Slopes and Plains, Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3sXhvF2ktbnE&md5=f5497d1945b1a1a93ee3cb5c4890b159CAS |

Mele PM, Crowley DR (2008) Application of self-organizing maps for assessing soil quality (review). Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment 126, 139–152.
Application of self-organizing maps for assessing soil quality (review).Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Miki T, Yokokawa T, Matsui K (2013) Biodiversity and multifunctionality in a microbial community: a novel theoretical approach to quantify functional redundancy. Proceedings Biological Sciences 281, 2013–2498
Biodiversity and multifunctionality in a microbial community: a novel theoretical approach to quantify functional redundancy.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Millar CE, Turk LM (1943) ‘Fundamentals of soil science.’ (John Wiley & Sons Inc.: New York)

Millington RJ (1959) Establishment of wheat in relation to apparent density of the surface soil. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 10, 487–494.
Establishment of wheat in relation to apparent density of the surface soil.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Minasny B, McBratney A (2002) Neuroman evaluator. Neural Networks Pedotransfer Functions. University of Sydney Centre for Precision Agriculture, Sydney, NSW.

Minasny B, McBratney AB, Bristow KL (1999) Comparison of different approaches to the development of pedotransfer functions for water-retention curves. Geoderma 93, 225–253.
Comparison of different approaches to the development of pedotransfer functions for water-retention curves.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Mondini C, Fornasier F, Sinicco T (2004) Enzymatic activity as a parameter for the characterization of the composting process. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 36, 1587–1594.
Enzymatic activity as a parameter for the characterization of the composting process.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD2cXnslKhtrc%3D&md5=fe3c109e69b766b3e8ce88bb6e056706CAS |

Moody PW, Bolland MDA (1999) Phosphorus. In ‘Soil analysis—an interpretation manual’. (Eds KI Peverrill, LA Sparrow, DJ Reuter) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Moody PW, Standley J (1979) Factors affecting phosphorus sorption by basaltic soils in the Atherton Tableland, Queensland. Journal of the Institute of Agricultural Science 45, 201–202.

Munkholm LJ (2011) Soil friability: A review of the concept, assessment and effects of soil properties and management. Geoderma 167–168, 236–246.
Soil friability: A review of the concept, assessment and effects of soil properties and management.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Murphy DV, Cookson WR, Brainbridge M, Marschner P, Jones DL, Stockdale EA, Abbott LK (2011) Relationships between soil organic matter and the soil microbial biomass (size, functional diversity and community structure) in crop and pasture systems in a semi-arid environment. Soil Research 49, 582–594.
Relationships between soil organic matter and the soil microbial biomass (size, functional diversity and community structure) in crop and pasture systems in a semi-arid environment.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3MXhsV2kur3J&md5=4d2b40e18193b6999a8bc2f7689dc6c7CAS |

Murphy BW, Crawford MH, Duncan DA, McKenzie DC, Koen TB (2013) The use of visual soil assessment schemes to evaluate surface structure in a soil monitoring program. Soil Use and Management 127, 3–12.

Nätscher L, Schwertmann U (1991) Proton buffering in organic horizons of acid forest soils. Geoderma 48, 93–106.
Proton buffering in organic horizons of acid forest soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Nelson DR, Mele PM (2006) The impact of crop residue amendments and lime on microbial community structure and nitrogen – fixing bacteria in the wheat rhizosphere. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 319–329.
The impact of crop residue amendments and lime on microbial community structure and nitrogen – fixing bacteria in the wheat rhizosphere.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Nicholson PS, Hirsch PR (1998) The effects of pesticides on the diversity of culturable bacteria. Journal of Applied Microbiology 84, 551–558.
The effects of pesticides on the diversity of culturable bacteria.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK1cXjs1ylsbc%3D&md5=fcaacaede10454e4f43b283983394fa2CAS |

Noack SR, Smernik RJ, McBeath TM, Armstrong RD, McLaughlin MJ (2014) Assessing crop residue phosphorus speciation using chemical fractionation and solution 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Talanta 126, 122–129.

Nziguheba G, Merckx R, Palm C (2005) Carbon and nitrogen dynamics in a phosphorus-deficient soil amended with organic residues and fertilizers in western Kenya. Biology and Fertility of Soils 41, 240–248.
Carbon and nitrogen dynamics in a phosphorus-deficient soil amended with organic residues and fertilizers in western Kenya.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD2MXjtVWmtbs%3D&md5=2fa60c177ad6e4dc628aaa8449b57d02CAS |

Oades JM (1984) Soil organic matter and structural stability: mechanisms and implications for management. Plant and Soil 76, 319–337.
Soil organic matter and structural stability: mechanisms and implications for management.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL2cXhvFSksbw%3D&md5=d9619720d7abe5fe247fb7846b1d8e2fCAS |

Oades JM (1993) The role of soil biology in the formation, stabilization and degradation of soil structure. Geoderma 56, 377–400.
The role of soil biology in the formation, stabilization and degradation of soil structure.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Oades JM, Waters AG (1991) Aggregate hierarchy in soils. Australian Journal of Soil Research 29, 815–828.
Aggregate hierarchy in soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Onstad CA, Wolfe ML, Larson CL, Slack DC (1984) Tilled soil subsidence during repeated wetting. Transactions of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers 27, 733–736.
Tilled soil subsidence during repeated wetting.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Orgill SE, Condon JR, Conyers MK, Greene RSB, Morris SG, Murphy BW (2014) Sensitivity of soil carbon to management and environmental factors within Australian perennial pasture systems. Geoderma 214–215, 70–79.
Sensitivity of soil carbon to management and environmental factors within Australian perennial pasture systems.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Parfitt RL, Giltrap DJ, Whittin JS (1995) Contribution of organic matter and clay minerals to the cation exchange capacity of soils. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis 26, 1343–1355.
Contribution of organic matter and clay minerals to the cation exchange capacity of soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK2MXlsFyqur0%3D&md5=bc3d71c4c7f5df777f350ce10d89339cCAS |

Peoples MB (2002) Biological fixation, contributions to agriculture. In ‘Encyclopaedia of soil science’. (Ed. R Lal) (Marcel Dekker: New York)

Piccolo A, Pietramellara G, Mbagwu JSC (1997) Use of humic substances as soil conditioners to increase aggregate stability. Geoderma 75, 267–277.
Use of humic substances as soil conditioners to increase aggregate stability.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK2sXhvFKhsbg%3D&md5=9be23b836d1bb8dee69ff12467afedbdCAS |

Pinheiro-Dick D, Schwertmann U (1996) Microaggregates from Oxisols and Inceptisols: dispersion through selective dissolutions and physicochemical treatments. Geoderma 74, 49–63.
Microaggregates from Oxisols and Inceptisols: dispersion through selective dissolutions and physicochemical treatments.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK2sXosVSr&md5=11a041f7e9b08cca30be8fa567c5b787CAS |

Probert ME (1993) Organic phosphorus and sulfur. In ‘Soils: an Australian viewpoint’. (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Quilty JR, Cattle SR (2011) Use and understanding of organic amendments in Australian agriculture. Soil Research 49, 1–26.
Use and understanding of organic amendments in Australian agriculture.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Rawls WJ (1983) Estimating bulk density from particle size analysis and organic matter content. Soil Science 135, 123–125.
Estimating bulk density from particle size analysis and organic matter content.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Rawls WJ, Ahuja LR, Brakensiek DL (1992) Estimating soil hydraulic properties from soils data. In ‘Indirect methods for estimating hydraulic properties of unsaturated soils. Proceedings International Workshop on Indirect Methods for Estimating the Hydraulic Properties of Unsaturated Soils’. 11–13 October 1989, Riverside, CA. (Eds MTh van Genuchten, FJ Leij) (US Salinity Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture: Riverside, CA, USA)

Rawls WJ, Pachepsky YA, Ritchie JC, Sobecki TM, Bloodworth H (2003) Effect of organic carbon on soil water retention. Geoderma 116, 61–76.
Effect of organic carbon on soil water retention.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3sXltF2isLc%3D&md5=ad588f6850cba62239a712696b068486CAS |

Rengasamy P, Churchman GJ (1999) Cation exchange capacity, exchangeable cations and sodicity. In ‘Soil analysis—an interpretation manual’. (Eds KI Peverrill, LA Sparrow, D Reuter) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Rengasamy P, Marchuk A (2011) Cation ratio of soil structural stability. Soil Research 49, 280–285.
Cation ratio of soil structural stability.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Rengasamy P, Greene RSB, Ford GW, Mechanni AH (1984) Identification of dispersive behaviour and the management of red-brown earths. Australian Journal of Soil Research 22, 413–431.
Identification of dispersive behaviour and the management of red-brown earths.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL2MXitlCrtA%3D%3D&md5=6e2f0ea0ce86bd196ac54f36a7c25c6dCAS |

Rice CW (2002) Organic matter and nutrient dynamics. In ‘Encyclopedia of soil science’. (Ed. R Lal) (Marcel Dekker: New York)

Rosewell CJ (1993) ‘SOILOSS—A program to assist in the selection of management practice to reduce erosion.’ Technical Handbook No. 11, 2nd edn (Department of Conservation and Land Management: Sydney)

Rosewell CJ, Loch RJ (2002) Estimation of the RUSLE soil erodibility factor. In ‘Soil physical measurement and interpretation for land evaluation’. (Eds N McKenzie, K Coughlan, H Cresswell) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Rovira AD (1963) Microbial inoculation of plants. I. Establishment of free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the rhizosphere and their effects on maize, tomato and wheat. Plant and Soil 19, 304–314.
Microbial inoculation of plants. I. Establishment of free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the rhizosphere and their effects on maize, tomato and wheat.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Russell JS (1960) Soil fertility changes in the long term experimental plots at Kybybolite, South Australia. I. Changes in pH, total nitrogen, organic carbon and bulk density. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 11, 902–926.
Soil fertility changes in the long term experimental plots at Kybybolite, South Australia. I. Changes in pH, total nitrogen, organic carbon and bulk density.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Ryan MH, Angus JF (2003) Arbuscular mycorrhizae in wheat and field pea crops on low P soil: increased Zn uptake but no increase in P-uptake or yield. Plant and Soil 250, 225–239.
Arbuscular mycorrhizae in wheat and field pea crops on low P soil: increased Zn uptake but no increase in P-uptake or yield.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3sXit1CisLY%3D&md5=9e6954115f0ea8bcadb8a0fe1c674075CAS |

Ryan MH, Graham JH (2002) Is there a role for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in production agriculture? Plant and Soil 244, 263–271.
Is there a role for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in production agriculture?Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD38XntFGrur8%3D&md5=729cd92d7accaf439bf2781fd9df0454CAS |

Ryan MH, Norton RM, Kirkegaard JA, McCormick KM, Knights SE, Angus JF (2002) Increasing mycorrhizal colonisation does not improve growth and nutrition of wheat on Vertosols in south eastern Australia. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 53, 1173–1181.
Increasing mycorrhizal colonisation does not improve growth and nutrition of wheat on Vertosols in south eastern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD38Xos1ektLw%3D&md5=a1aa21e4ed0a997c6751dc14dfed3355CAS |

Ryan MH, van Herwaarden , Angus JF, Kirkegaard JA (2005) Colonisation by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi is associated with reductions in biomass of wheat in a low-P soil under field conditions. Plant and Soil 270, 275–285.

Ryan MH, Kirkegaard JA, Angus JF (2006) Brassica crops stimulate soil mineral N accumulation. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 367–377.
Brassica crops stimulate soil mineral N accumulation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD28XmtFKgsLw%3D&md5=bb5199f8ec8c0422cc68081dfb091eabCAS |

Sanderman J, Baldock J, Hawke B, Macdonald L, Massis-Puccini A, Szarva S (2013) ‘Soil Carbon Research Program (SCaRP). Project 1. Field and laboratory methodologies.’ (CSIRO Land & Water: Urrbrae, S. Aust.)

Saunders WMH (1965) Phosphate retention by New Zealand soils and its relationship to free sesquioxides, organic matter and other soil properties. New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research 8, 30–57.
Phosphate retention by New Zealand soils and its relationship to free sesquioxides, organic matter and other soil properties.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaF2MXpsVaqsw%3D%3D&md5=29fe3818d390baf9373ecf3ba4db6503CAS |

Saxton KE, Rawls WJ (2006) Soil water characteristics estimated by texture and organic matter for hydrologic solutions. Soil Science Society of America Journal 70, 1569–1578.
Soil water characteristics estimated by texture and organic matter for hydrologic solutions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD28Xpsl2lsL4%3D&md5=7ef74eb74cfd4185c6284146638e9fb6CAS |

Schachtman DP, Reid RJ, Ayling SM (1998) Phosphorus uptake by plants: From soil to cell. Plant Physiology 116, 447–453.
Phosphorus uptake by plants: From soil to cell.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK1cXht1ajtbc%3D&md5=281f9d21d345b5db428a52a10e714af1CAS | 9490752PubMed |

Schefe CR, Patti AF, Clune TS, Jackson WR (2007) Soil amendments modify phosphate sorption in an acid soil: the importance of P source (KH2PO4, TSP, DAP). Australian Journal of Soil Research 45, 246–254.
Soil amendments modify phosphate sorption in an acid soil: the importance of P source (KH2PO4, TSP, DAP).Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD2sXnsV2gs7Y%3D&md5=3cad9621c7370e57228f560675cd106cCAS |

Shaykewich CF, Zwarich MA (1968) Relationships between soil physical constants and soil physical components of some Manitoba soils. Canadian Journal of Soil Science 48, 199–204.
Relationships between soil physical constants and soil physical components of some Manitoba soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Shen J, Yuan L, Zhang J, Li H, Bai Z, Chen X, Zhang W, Zhang F (2011) Phosphorus dynamics: from soil to plant. Plant Physiology 156, 997–1005.
Phosphorus dynamics: from soil to plant.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3MXptFWlur0%3D&md5=e6875a9bd63b563957cf563bfacd6058CAS | 21571668PubMed |

Simpson RJ, Oberson A, Culvenor RA, Ryan MH, Veneklaas EJ, Lambers H, Lynch JP, Ryan PR, Delhaize E, Smith FA, Harvey PR, Richardson AE (2011) Strategies and agronomic interventions to improve the phosphorus-use efficiency of farming systems. Plant and Soil 349, 89–120.
Strategies and agronomic interventions to improve the phosphorus-use efficiency of farming systems.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3MXhsFKntb7M&md5=173c6d98c1d2b6379bbc8625cecaf9bbCAS |

Singh BK, Munro DP, Potts JM, Miillard P (2007) Influence of grass species and soil type on rhizosphere microbial community structure in grassland soils. Applied Soil Biology 36, 147–155.
Influence of grass species and soil type on rhizosphere microbial community structure in grassland soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Six J, Jastrow JD (2002) Organic matter turnover. In ‘Encyclopedia of soil science’. (Ed. R Lal) (Marcel Dekker: New York)

Six J, Feller C, Denef K, Ogle SM, de Moraes JC, Albrecht A (2002) Soil organic matter, biota and aggregation in temperate and tropical soils—Effects of no-tillage. Agronomie 22, 755–775.
Soil organic matter, biota and aggregation in temperate and tropical soils—Effects of no-tillage.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Slattery WJ, Edwards DG, Bell LC, Coventry DR, Helyar KR (1998) Soil acidification and the carbon cycle in a cropping soil of north eastern Victoria. Australian Journal of Soil Research 36, 273–290.
Soil acidification and the carbon cycle in a cropping soil of north eastern Victoria.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Slattery WJ, Conyers MK, Aitken RL (1999) Soil pH, aluminium, manganese and lime requirement. In ‘Soil analysis—an interpretation manual’. (Eds KI Peverrill, LA Sparrow, DJ Reuter) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Soil Survey Staff (2010) ‘Keys to Soil Taxonomy.’ 11th edn US Department of Agriculture. (Natural Resources Conservation Service, US Government: Washington, DC)

Spain AV, Isbell RF, Probert ME (1993) Soil organic matter. In ‘Soils: an Australian viewpoint’. (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Stephan A, Meyer AH, Schmid (2000) Plant diversity affects culturable soil bacteria in experimental grassland communities. Journal of Ecology 88, 988–998.
Plant diversity affects culturable soil bacteria in experimental grassland communities.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Stevenson IL (1969) Biochemistry of soil. In ‘Chemistry of the soil’. American Chemical Society Monograph Series. (Ed. FE Bear) (Van Nostrand Reinhold Company: New York)

Stevenson FJ (1982) ‘Humus chemistry—genesis, composition and reactions.’ (John Wiley and Sons: New York)

Strong WM, Mason MG (1999) Nitrogen. In ‘Soil analysis—an interpretation manual’. (Eds KI Peverrill, LA Sparrow, DJ Reuter) (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne)

Swenson RM, Cole VC, Sieling DH (1949) Fixation of phosphorus by iron and aluminium and replacement by organic and inorganic ions. Soil Science 67, 3–22.
Fixation of phosphorus by iron and aluminium and replacement by organic and inorganic ions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaH1MXitVKrtQ%3D%3D&md5=e12fbe884ee204bc825550e84e36ecefCAS |

Syers JK, Johnston AE, Curtin D (2008) ‘Efficiency of soil and fertilizer phosphorus use: Reconciling changing concepts of soil phosphorus behaviour with agronomic information.’ FAO Fertilizer and Plant Nutrition Bulletin 18. (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: Rome)

Thomas GW (2002) pH. In ‘Encyclopedia of soil science’. (Ed. R Lal) (Marcel Dekker: New York)

Thomas GW, Hazler GR, Blevins RL (1996) The effects of organic matter and tillage on maximum compaction of soils using the Proctor test. Soil Science 161, 502–508.
The effects of organic matter and tillage on maximum compaction of soils using the Proctor test.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK28XltFeqtLk%3D&md5=a751a1b492663468337be0fa7a226644CAS |

Tisdall JM, Oades JM (1980a) The effect of crop rotation on aggregation in a red-brown earth. Australian Journal of Soil Research 18, 423–433.
The effect of crop rotation on aggregation in a red-brown earth.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL3MXot12rtg%3D%3D&md5=acf563298bbb95444e0bae5548743c33CAS |

Tisdall JM, Oades JM (1980b) The management of ryegrass to stabilise aggregates of a red-brown earth. Australian Journal of Soil Research 18, 415–422.
The management of ryegrass to stabilise aggregates of a red-brown earth.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Tisdall JM, Oades JM (1982) Organic matter and water stable aggregates in soil. Journal of Soil Science 33, 141–163.
Organic matter and water stable aggregates in soil.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL38XlsVels7w%3D&md5=bf9735d126e7b29eacba69504c75c16cCAS |

Toor GS, Hunger S, Peak JD, Sims JT, Sparks DL (2006) Advances in the characterization of phosphorus in organic wastes: Environmental and agronomic applications. Advances in Agronomy 89, 1–72.
Advances in the characterization of phosphorus in organic wastes: Environmental and agronomic applications.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Toreu BN, Thomas FG, Gillman GP (1988) Phosphate characteristics of the soils of the north Queensland coastal region. Australian Journal of Soil Research 26, 465–477.
Phosphate characteristics of the soils of the north Queensland coastal region.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaL1MXjvVWktw%3D%3D&md5=112573ce99e0918e8690895393d3eefaCAS |

Tranter G, Minasny B, McBratney AB, Murphy B, McKenzie NJ, Grundy M, Brough D (2007) Building and testing conceptual and empirical models for predicting soil bulk density. Soil Use and Management 23, 437–443.
Building and testing conceptual and empirical models for predicting soil bulk density.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Unkovich MJ, Baldock J, Peoples MB (2010) Prospects and problems of simple linear models for estimating symbiotic N2 fixation by crop and pasture legumes. Plant and Soil 329, 75–89.
Prospects and problems of simple linear models for estimating symbiotic N2 fixation by crop and pasture legumes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3cXjtFGluro%3D&md5=733ddfe4f7a9b094dfe5ba9e36ea9745CAS |

Upjohn B, Fenton G, Conyers M (2005) Soil acidity and liming. Agfact AC19, 3rd edn. NSW Department of Primary Industries. Available at: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/167209/soil-acidity-liming.pdf

Utomo WH, Dexter AR (1981) Soil friability. Journal of Soil Science 32, 203–213.
Soil friability.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Valzano F, Murphy BW, Koen T (2005) The impact of tillage on changes in soil carbon density with special emphasis on Australian conditions. Technical Report No. 43, National Carbon Accounting System, Australian Greenhouse Office, Canberra, ACT.

van Genuchten MTh (1980) A closed form equation for predicting the hydraulic conductivity of unsaturated soils. Soil Science Society of America Journal 44, 892–898.
A closed form equation for predicting the hydraulic conductivity of unsaturated soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Verchot LV, Dutaur L, Shepherd KD, Albrecht A (2011) Organic matter stabilization in soil aggregates: Understanding the biogeochemical mechanisms that determine the fate of carbon inputs in soils. Geoderma 161, 182–193.
Organic matter stabilization in soil aggregates: Understanding the biogeochemical mechanisms that determine the fate of carbon inputs in soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BC3MXitleitbk%3D&md5=6670f45fe1d2f07e42f29e1bf207f2d5CAS |

Walker TW, Adams AFR (1958) Studies in soil organic matter. I. Influence of parent material on accumulation of C, N, S and organic P in grassland soils. Soil Science 85, 307–318.
Studies in soil organic matter. I. Influence of parent material on accumulation of C, N, S and organic P in grassland soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaG1MXhvFeisw%3D%3D&md5=5f6281048fa8750132aa0f3bf013dfeeCAS |

Watt M, Kirkegaard JA, Passioura JB (2006) Rhizosphere biology and crop productivity—a review. Australian Journal of Soil Research 44, 299–317.
Rhizosphere biology and crop productivity—a review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Weast RC (Ed.) (1974) ‘Handbook of chemistry and physics.’ (CRC Press: Cleveland, OH, USA)

Wilhelm S (1973) Principles of biological control of soil-borne plant diseases. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 5, 729–737.
Principles of biological control of soil-borne plant diseases.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Williams CH (1980) Soil acidification under clover pasture. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture and Animal Husbandry 20, 561–567.
Soil acidification under clover pasture.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Williams CH, Donald CM (1957) Changes in organic matter and pH in a podzolic soil as influenced by subterranean clover and superphosphate. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 8, 179–189.
Changes in organic matter and pH in a podzolic soil as influenced by subterranean clover and superphosphate.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaG2sXktVOjtg%3D%3D&md5=311621696d8214b2747c040656d8171dCAS |

Williams J, Ross P, Bristow K (1992) Prediction of the Campbell water retention function from texture, structure and organic matter. In ‘Indirect methods for estimating hydraulic properties of unsaturated soils. In ‘Proceedings International Workshop on Indirect Methods for Estimating the Hydraulic Properties of Unsaturated Soils’. 11–13 October 1989, Riverside, CA. (Eds M Th Van Genuchten, FJ Leij) (US salinity Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture: Riverside, CA, USA)

Yan F, McBratney AB, Copeland L (2000) Functional substrate biodiversity of cultivated and uncultivated A horizons of Vertisols in NW New South Wales. Geoderma 96, 321–343.
Functional substrate biodiversity of cultivated and uncultivated A horizons of Vertisols in NW New South Wales.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Yao Q, Li X, Feng G, Christie P (2001) Mobilization of sparingly soluble inorganic phosphates by the external mycelium of an abuscular mycorrhizal fungus. Plant and Soil 230, 279–285.
Mobilization of sparingly soluble inorganic phosphates by the external mycelium of an abuscular mycorrhizal fungus.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DC%2BD3MXjt12qs7Y%3D&md5=d682ef938ee4c01e13837fd3dddb18e3CAS |

Yeates C, Gillings M (1998) Rapid purification of DNA from soil for molecular biodiversity analysis. Letters in Applied Microbiology 27, 49–53.
Rapid purification of DNA from soil for molecular biodiversity analysis.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK1cXlslWrsro%3D&md5=c54574f9e9bbbf292ae5d545ae9d8b55CAS |

Young I (2008) Microbial distribution in soils: Physics and scaling. Advances in Agronomy 100, 81–121.
Microbial distribution in soils: Physics and scaling.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Zelles L, Bai QY (1993) Fractionation of fatty acids derived from soil lipids by solid phase extraction and their quantitative analysis by GC-MS. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 25, 495–507.
Fractionation of fatty acids derived from soil lipids by solid phase extraction and their quantitative analysis by GC-MS.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK3sXmsVCltLc%3D&md5=614aecff427acf334464a3f4ce4f3243CAS |

Zelles L, Bai QY, Beck T, Beese F (1992) Signature fatty acids in phospholipids and lipopolysaccharides as indicators of microbial biomass and community structure in agricultural soils. Soil Biology & Biochemistry 24, 317–323.
Signature fatty acids in phospholipids and lipopolysaccharides as indicators of microbial biomass and community structure in agricultural soils.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1:CAS:528:DyaK38XkvV2nt74%3D&md5=765975d97bbadf7cd4750353a5ea8fd2CAS |