Article Summary: A diverse and unique range of terrain types influences farming outcomes in Australia and New Zealand. From vast deserts to rolling hills and lush valleys, each terrain type presents unique challenges and opportunities for farmers. This article explores the different farming terrain types in Australia and New Zealand, their soil conditions, ideal farming types, and the risks of not matching your livestock or crops to your conditions. We’ll also discuss that understanding your land condition and type and using intelligent farm management software will give you the best chance of a successful farm outcome.
Australia and New Zealand are blessed with a diverse and unique collection of farming terrains. From vast deserts to rolling hills and lush valleys, each terrain type presents unique challenges and opportunities for farmers. In this article, we'll explore the different farming terrain types in Australia and New Zealand, what they mean for agriculture, and how they influence a successful farm outcome.
Farming Terrain Types in Australia and New Zealand
Coastal Plains
Coastal plains are usually flat, low-lying areas bordering the ocean. In Australia, you’ll find them along the east coast and in parts of Western Australia. In New Zealand, the Canterbury Plains on the South Island is the largest example. These areas are ideal for farming due to their fertile soils, mild temperatures, and ample rainfall.
The most popular types of farming in these areas are:
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Dairy farming
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Horticulture
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Aquaculture
In Australia, the coastal plains of Queensland and New South Wales is home to most of the country's dairy farms. Meanwhile, the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions in New Zealand are top dairy farming regions. The sediment and nutrients rivers and ocean tides deposit in these areas ensure fertile soils. The soil composition is sandy and well-drained, making them ideal for growing sugarcane, citrus, and vegetables.
Outback and Desert
Dry conditions characterise the outback and desert terrain types and soils that are low in organic matter and prone to erosion. The Outback covers much of the interior of Australia, while New Zealand's Central Plateau is drier than other parts of the country. The climate is harsh, with hot temperatures and low rainfall.
Despite these conditions, arid and semi-arid areas are great for farming, particularly livestock grazing, mining, and tourism. The top agriculture types in desert areas are:
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Cattle farming
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Sheep farming
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Grain farming
Tropical Rainforests
Tropical rainforests are typical of northern Queensland and the Northern Territory in Australia and parts of New Zealand. These areas have high rainfall and hot, humid weather and are home to diverse flora and fauna. The soil is generally quite fertile, typically acidic and low in nutrients, requiring careful management to support crops such as coffee, cocoa, bananas, and pineapples. Tropical regions are ideal for a range of year-round farming activities but can present challenges with their high levels of rainfall, difficult terrain, and susceptibility to cyclones.
The most popular types of farming in these areas are:
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Sugarcane farming
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Cattle farming
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Horticulture
In Australia, the tropical north of Queensland is the main area for sugarcane farming, while the Northern Territory is home to many cattle farms. Meanwhile, the Northland region in New Zealand is known for its horticulture.
Alpine Regions
Located in the highest parts of the Australian Alps and the Southern Alps in New Zealand, these mountainous areas experience cold temperatures and heavy winter snowfall, limiting their growing season. Because of its high elevations and steep terrain, access is difficult. In addition, the soils found in these regions are typically thin and nutrient-poor, requiring careful management to support agriculture.
The conditions can be harsh, but many farming opportunities exist in these areas, including high-altitude crops and livestock grazing. Mountain cattlemen typically farm in these rugged areas.
The most popular types of farming in these areas are:
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Sheep farming
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Cattle farming
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Forestry
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Potatoes, wheat and other grains
In Australia, the mountainous terrain of the Great Dividing Range is home to many sheep and cattle farms. Meanwhile, the Southern Alps are known for their sheep farming in New Zealand.
Located in the highest parts of the Australian Alps and the Southern Alps in New Zealand, these mountainous areas experience cold temperatures and heavy winter snowfall, limiting their growing season. Because of its high elevations and steep terrain, access is difficult. In addition, the soils found in these regions are typically thin and nutrient-poor, requiring careful management to support agriculture.
The conditions can be harsh, but many farming opportunities exist in these areas, including high-altitude crops and livestock grazing. Mountain cattlemen typically farm in these rugged areas.
Riverina Region
The Riverina region of New South Wales is known for its flat, fertile plains and warm, temperate climate. It also boasts a plentiful water supply thanks to its extensive river network. The Riverina is a major food bowl vital to Australia's agricultural industry, with the following farming types:
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Grain farming
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Horticulture
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Livestock farming
The Riverina provides wheat, rice, and other grains. It is also an important horticultural region, with many vineyards, citrus orchards, and other crops grown.
What are the potential impacts of farming on the wrong land type?
Choosing crops or animals that match the terrain type of your farm is important for many reasons, including:
Soil suitability
Different crops and animals have specific soil and nutrient requirements. Selecting crops or animals that match your terrain type ensures that you are working with the natural strengths of your land. This will eventually lead to better yields and healthier animals.
Climate considerations
Certain crops and animals are better suited to different climates. For example, tropical fruits will struggle to grow in colder regions, and animals adapted to colder climates will not thrive in hot and humid areas.
Water availability
Some crops and animals require more water than others. Selecting crops or livestock adapted to your terrain will help you make the most of available water resources.
Pest and disease resistance
Different crops and animals have varying resistance levels to pests and diseases. Choosing varieties adapted to your terrain type can help reduce the risk of crop failure.
If you don't choose crops or animals that match your terrain type, you may encounter the following issues:
Reduced yields
If you select crops that are not well-suited to your soil or climate, you may find that they don't grow as well as you'd hoped, resulting in frequent replanting, lower yields, and lower profits.
Higher costs
Via investing in infrastructure to keep crops and animals healthy and comfortable, i.e. air-conditioned sheds and greenhouses in hot climates.
Increased risk of pest and disease
Poorly suited crops or animals are more susceptible to pests and diseases, leading to crop failure and lost profits.
It’s important to remember that choosing well-matched crops or animals to your soil type, climate, and terrain is essential for successful farming outcomes.
What does this mean for me and my land type?
Various terrain types, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities, influence farming in Australia and New Zealand. This extends to each terrain type's climate and soil composition, which plays a critical role in determining which crops are best suited for each region.
Understanding these land types is essential to make informed decisions about what crops to grow and what farming practices to use.
By working with the natural environment, you can ensure sustainable and productive agriculture for years.
To augment your knowledge of the above, consider integrating machine learning and AI-based farm management software to help you better understand your land and get the most out of your pastures. Pasture.io offer real-time readings, transparent data and satellite readings to tell you what’s happening on your pastures and support you in making the best decisions on your farm.
To understand more or request a demo, get in touch with our dedicated team today.
Until we meet again, Happy Farming!
- The Dedicated Team of Pasture.io, 2023-03-21