The Broadbalk Experiment, initiated in 1843 by Mr. John Lawes, is the premier long term fertility and cropping systems experiment in the world. This experiment takes place at Rothamsted, once known as Rothamsted Experimental Station, outside of Harpenden in the United Kingdom. The background and original goals of the experiment as explained by Mr. Johnny Johnson, Lawes Senior Trust Fellow, were to study nutrient uptake and use, effects of liming, crop rotation, and nutrient movement and storage in the soil.

Wheat was the primary crop grown at the beginning, but the experiments have been modified to include maize and other crops.  John Lawes, originator of the experiments, found that manure and commercial fertilizers were of equal value in providing nutrients. He also found that   rotating crops had a beneficial effect on wheat yields.
 
Of particular interest is the discovery by Lawes that one nutrient can be replaced by another in the soil.  This verified the concept of Cation Exchange in the soil, a concept on which nutrient recommendations are based today.
 
Today, this experiment is providing information to help reduce water contamination, and increase fertilizer use efficiency.  Studies such as this will continue to facilitate environmental stewardship, while providing for a sustainable food production system.

View sample clips from the video or order it now.