increase font size
The tractor-based system allows for the effective control of unwanted vegetation.
WIith an increasing focus on reducing chemical herbicides, largely because of crop resistance and a potential build-up of residues, new methods of weed control are appearing.
XPower by AGXTEND, a CNH Industrial aftermarket brand, in cooperation with Zasso, offers a new, disruptive and efficient way of combating weeds without herbicides.
The tractor-based system allows the effective control of unwanted vegetation thanks to the tested XPower system and electrophysical technology.
As well as being residue-free, the unit can be used at any time of the year and largely independent of the time of day and temperature.
The system consists of two components that are attached to the front and rear of tractors.
The rear unit includes a generator, up to 12 high-voltage transformers, with an output of 36 kW (including Power Boost option) and an electrical control cabinet.
The swivelling front attachment, able to deal with vegetation outside the tractor wheel tracks, consists of three rows of static electrodes.
The rear-mounted generator is driven by the tractor’s PTO shaft and produces high-voltage electricity, which flows into the plants and then into the ground via the applicator.
The circuit is completed via a second applicator that either touches other plants or the soil. This allows the electrical energy to systemically deactivate the chlorophyll – as well as the water and nutrient system of the plants.
This means the cells and vascular bundles are irreparably destroyed down to the roots.Weighing in a total of around 1400 kg, divided into 250 kg/1200kg front to rear, the unit has a power requirement of around 100-130-hp.
Writing a practical guide on non-chemical weed management had an unexpected result for Dr Charles Merfield, as he delved into the interconnected nature of the vines, groun cover and soils, and the damage done to all three by cultivating.
Well known for its capability in dealing to weeds in growing crops, the New Zealand-designed and built Rotowiper, has proven itself by increasing production on farms around the world.
The true cost of weeds to New Zealand’s agricultural economy is likely far higher than previous research suggests, according to a new study funded by AgResearch.
Since the introduction of Pioneer's New Zealand silage trial programme in 1991, silage yields have increased by an average of 310 kgDM/ha/year.
The Waikato Regional Council is facing a range of environmental and production pest challenges this year following a busy 12 months controlling unwanted animals and plants.
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford is claiming “some real success” on the 12 policy priorities it placed before the Coalition Government.
Federated Farmers is throwing its support behind the Fast-track Approvals Bill introduced by the Coalition Government to enable a fast-track decision-making process for infrastructure and development projects.
The latest report from ANZ isn’t good news for sheep farmers: lamb returns are forecast to remain low.
Divine table grapes that herald the start of a brand-new industry in Hawke’s Bay have been coming off vines in Maraekakaho.
In what appears to be a casualty of the downturn in the agricultural sector, a well-known machinery brand is now in the hands of liquidators and owing creditors $6.6 million.
One of New Zealand’s deepest breeder Jersey herds – known for its enduring connection through cattle with the UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II – will host its 75th anniversary celebration sale on-farm on April 22.
