July aug 2016 edition of Gulf Agriculture

J U LY

ISSN 1751-8407

AUGUST

2016 TM

YOUR GATEWAY TO THE MIDDLE EAST AGRIBUSINESS

GREEN WEEK 2017: THE AGRIBUSINESS TRADE FAIR

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WANGARA HORTICULTURAL: AN INDUSTRY LEADER

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INNOVATIVE EQUIPMENT FOR PLOUGHING

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VERMICOMPOST — A GIFT

BY NATURE'S PLOUGHMAN

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DEVELOPERS OF FISH FARM SOLUTIONS

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A G R I C U L T U R E

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L A N D S C A P E

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G O L F

2016 Irrigation n Show & Education Conference onference Las Vegas Convention ention Center Las Vegas, Nevada ada

Co-locating with:

Irrigation Show | December 7 – 8 Education Conference | December 5 – 9

www.irrigationshow.org

CONTENTS

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PAGE 04

CONTENT PROGRAMME, INNOVATIONS AND NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES RULED THE SHOW

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SPECTACULAR PAGEANT OF 70 TRACTORS MARKS 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE COVENTRY PRODUCED FERGUSON TE20

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CASE IH HOLDS TRAINING EVENTS FOR MIDDLE EASTERN SALESPEOPLE AND CUSTOMERS

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HIGH QUALITY PLANTER BAGS

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NORWEGIAN EXPERTISE TO DEAL WITH MARINE FOULING

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Editor in Chief Mohammed Nasser | Editor Marie Matthew | Associate Editor Andrew Thomas Assistant Editor Megha Mary Matt | Graphic Designer Elizabeth John | Production Manager Abdul Shareef Contributors Neville J. Chandler, Douglas Bott, Shakeeb Kolakadan, Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas Head Office Matt Media International Ltd, Woodgreen, London N22 5AR, UK. E-mail: gulfag@emirates.net.ae, Web site: www.gulfagriculture.com Middle East Office Al Saad Advertising & Publishing L.L.C., P O Box 25694, Sharjah, UAE, Tel:+971 6 5639494, Fax:+971 6 5639449.

Gulf Agriculture is read by agri professionals, farm managers & owners, landscape consultants, contractors, agri-equipment suppliers, horticultural engineers, greenhouse managers, agronomists, veterinary surgeons, ministries, poultry & dairy breeders, importers, distributors, manufacturers and whole salers of food and agri inputs.

Printed and published by Matt Media© Intl. Ltd.(U.K.) 2016 All rights reserved. The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are requested to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstance. The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for any error or omissions contained in this publication.

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MARTEX® PLANTING BAGS AND CONTAINERS THE COMPANY FROM POLAND OFFERING PRODUCTS FOR NURSERY SECTOR, AND FOR ORNAMENTAL, FRUIT, FOREST PLANT RAISING OR RECULTIVATION

Parking and transportation of planting bags, other types of containers, mulch mats and rings

Mulch mats for weed protection

Small mulch mats

Elastic mulch mat

Packing and transportation

Arrangement and transportation

Arrangement and transportation

Packing and transportation

Metal trunk shaping rings

ARBO®-STRONG

ARBO®-SAUNA

100% jute container in 270-360 g/m2 density

MARTEX® - TEXTILE PRODUCTS FOR RAISING OF ORNAMENTAL, FRUIT, AND FOREST SEEDLINGS, OR FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECULTIVATION Products commonly applied at nurseries, both in temperate and hot climate Used for raising trees in the forest, idle land, semi-desert area, steppe …….

Excellent for tree planting by the road and highway, useful for the purpose of general cleaning works, composting, and in any similar applications…….

Our representatives: D-Hermann Meyer KG: e-mail: mail@hermann-meyer.de NL/GB-B&P Co., www.b-en-p.nl Scandinavia: OY Urban natural Ab, www.natural.fi Russia: Landscape Design Ltd., www.garden-center.ru Ukraine: Demetra Ltd., e-mail: demetra@com.ua Bulgaria-Romania: Hermann-Meyer, www.meyer-shop.com Abu Dhabi: Arid Land Co., LLC., www.aridlanddevelopment.com e-mail: aridland@emirates.net.ae

NEWS UPDATE

EIMA: an event more international than ever

Fornazor International receives presidential award for export successes U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker presented Fornazor International with the President's “E” Award for Exports at a ceremony in Washington, DC. The President's “E” Award is the highest recognition any U.S. entity can receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports.

“Fornazor International has demonstrated a sustained commitment to export expansion. The "E" Awards Committee was very impressed with Fornazor International's current sales to more than 40 countries around the world. The company's modification of products for foreign markets was also particularly notable. Fornazor International's achievements have undoubtedly contributed to national export expansion efforts that support the U.S. economy and create American jobs,” said Secretary Pritzker in her congratulatory letter to the company announcing its selection as an award recipient.

Fornazor International Inc. has been in business for nearly 30 years. The company trades agricultural commodities specializing in a wide range of feed ingredients and finished animal feeds.

President John Fornazor, Sr, states: “Exporting is our company's foundation and 100% of our business. We are honored to receive the “E” Award.”

In 1961, President Kennedy signed an executive order reviving the World War II “E” symbol of excellence to honor and provide recognition to America's exporters. Today, Secretary Pritzker honored 123 U.S. companies with the President's “E” Award for their outstanding work to reduce barriers to foreign markets and to open the door to more trade around the world.

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Exhibitors from 40 countries and visitors expected from 140 countries plus more than 80 foreign delegations arriving; these are the credentials for the international exposition of agricultural machinery and equipment scheduled for next November 9 to 13 in Bologna.

Specific services planned for foreign business people and a schedule of meetings, congresses and conferences on international agricultural mechanization policies the new geography of the markets.

The review of machinery and equipment for agriculture and grounds keeping, EIMA, set for next November 9 to 13 in Bologna, is confirming its international calibration.

Among some 1,900 exhibiting industries appearing more than 40 of them are arriving from abroad along with business people from 140 countries.

Moreover, the event is drawing 80 official delegations from 70 countries.

The International Office of FederUnacoma - the Italian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Federation, in the National Manufacturers Confederation, organizing the event - is collaborating with the ICE Foreign Trade Agency on special programs for foreign delegations of groups of business people from around Europe, the Americas, the African continent, the Asian countries as well as Australia.

The plans for these foreign delegations call for a heavy schedule of meetings with exhibiting industries organized according to the special interests of business people in various types of products. The 2014 edition of EIMA

International featured some 3,000 meetings set up for foreign delegations and those scheduled for the upcoming edition will be held in a specific area and include services provided by interpreters and commercial consultants.

The larger number of delegations arriving for this year's edition is 80 organized by ICE and 10 more outside the ICE program compared to a total of the 60 official ICE delegations in 2014 so a further substantial increase in B2B meetings is expected to be planned for the upcoming EIMA. In addition to these contacts planned ahead of time there will be an enormous group of individual business people with their own agendas for meetings in the stands and the specialized salons, EIMA Components, EIMA Green, EIMA Energy and EIMA M.i.A., to deal directly with the technologies presented for all types of agricultural operations among some 50,000 models exhibited in the 14 merchandise categories and the specialized salons, EIMA Components, EIMA Green, EIMA Energy and EIMA M.i.A. Arriving for the 2014 edition were 39,000 single business people attending among the 236,000 visitors registered.

Also many of the conferences organized for the exposition will take on an international slant, beginning with an international assembly on the issue Agricultural Mechanization: the New European Agenda organized by FederUnacoma and CEMA, representing European Agricultural Manufacturers interests, and the world Agrievolution association. The JULY AUGUST 2016

NEWS UPDATE

conference will be held in the morning of November 9th with political figures and representatives from European Union institutions in attendance.

Another conference is planned for the evening of the same day for dealing with the global economic picture and the new geography of the world markets for the members of the foreign delegations. Another assembly is set for discussions on Italian-African cooperation experiences in agricultural mechanization on the morning of November 11th to be followed by a specific focus on the Mozambique Africa Hand Project on cooperation in this area. In addition, a large number of meetings will be held on matters dealing with

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foreign markets and the development of international business relations among countries.

EuroTier 2016 expects 2,500 exhibitors from more than 50 countries EuroTier is the indispensable and international platform for livestock professionals - New special features this year for dairy, cattle and poultry production - Also includes International technical programme and the EnergyDecentral show.

Some 2,400 exhibitors have already signed up to participate at EuroTier 2016, which takes place later this year in Hanover, Germany. More than 1,300 of these companies are coming from some 54 countries to

exhibit at the event, which takes place from 15th to 18th November.

EuroTier organizer DLG is expecting the final exhibitor number to reach 2,500 by the time the exhibition gets underway in four months. The top international exhibitors that will be showcasing their innovations for the livestock sector at the event are the Netherlands with 230 companies, followed by China (170), France (150), Italy (130) and Turkey (60).

With its comprehensive offering of products and services for animal production across all species, EuroTier is a key meeting place for livestock farmers wanting to learn what current solutions are available, as well as what will be coming

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in the future. The leading companies operating in the dairy, cattle and poultry sectors will all be represented in Hanover later this year with also a smaller section on sheep at the exhibition. And there will be a particularly strong poultry presence this year, as the World Poultry Show will also take place within EuroTier 2016.

Dust, ammonia and odor emissions from poultry buildings can affect the environment both inside and outside the barn. In this year's

EuroTier poultry special feature, exhibitors will provide information about “indoor” process-integrated measures to minimize these emissions.

Methods will naturally include exhaust air purification systems that have clear anti-pollution effects, but there will also be other approaches and methods including special bedding materials or litter additives, feed additives or customized feeding and air conditioning that could also bring positive effects on animal health and

Imdaad introduces use of bio organic pesticide solutions as part of innovative initiative Long-termuse of conventional pesticide can lead to a range of harmful side-effects to the environment, as well as to the people who are constantly in contact with it.

However, as bio-organic pesticides have been introduced to the market, companies are no longer confined to using synthetic solutions. The product offers a wide range of benefits that can address the needs of the customers without posing a significant risk. As bio pesticides can effectively target particular pests and specific areas, they are more effective even in small quantities. They are also more environmentally friendly and reduces risk of Jamal Abdullah Lootah prolonged exposure to the operators. In addition, they also decompose quickly and are less likely to have resistance issues.

In light of this, Imdaad, a leading provider of integrated facilities, environment and energy management solutions in the GCC, has recently announced that it is gradually replacing its chemical pesticides with organic bio-chemical pesticides. The move falls in line with Imdaad's CSR projects and Green Environment initiative with the company's Pest Control Division which aims to ensure that a significant percentage of the total chemical purchase in 2016 will include organic bio chemicals.

Jamal Abdullah Lootah, CEO, Imdaad said, “We are excited to pursue this new program as this is an important aspect of our Green Environment initiatives. We remain committed towards initiatives that will promote sustainability, protect the environment and ensure the health and safety of our workers and the public. We are currently developing a strategy for its gradual implementation so that we can make this change across all our projects.”

Green pesticides are not yet widely adopted, as most companies within the sector are not aware of the negative and potentially harmful effects of environmental pesticides. As a result, very few companies have integrated this change to their operations. The initiative will be gradually implemented in a strategic manner and falls in line with the company's active efforts to promote environmental sustainability and protect the well-being of the community at large.

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animal welfare, and the working conditions of the stockmen.

The special feature will be situated close to, and planned in coordination with, the presentation series in the Poultry Forum. Here poultry experts will be available to answer questions and to take part in discussions on forum topics.

All the leading national and international cattle breeding organizations will be represented in the presentation of daughter animals at EuroTier's “Top Tier Treff” (top cattle genetics show). In Hall 11 the dairy breeds Holsteins, Angeln, Brown Cattle, Simmental, Brown Swiss and German Simmental are expected to be presented at the Hanover Fairgrounds. Expected beef breeds that will be represented include: Angus, Aubrac, Blonde d'Aquitaine, Charolais, Galloway, Hereford, Highland Cattle, Limousin, Uckermark, Wagyu cattle, and Welsh Black, and possibly the rare dual-purpose breeds Grey Mountain and Pinzgauer.

This presentation of cattle diversity caters to the steadily increasing need for information on the part of cattle breeders from all over the world. The breeding companies and organizations will provide information about the top sires in their breeding programmes, with details of the corresponding hereditary performance and merits.

Aquaculture is an international growth market and an integral part of EuroTier 2016. Leading companies including suppliers of modern fish farm technology related to husbandry, feeding and feed, networks and innovative water JULY AUGUST 2016

The world´s leading trade fair for animal production

treatment systems, have already registered, and will present their latest developments in Hanover.

For the first time, an Aquaculture Info Center can be found at the fair. With the title "Growth in the water instead of on the surface", it offers advice and a special area for living exhibits: fish, seaweed, shrimp, shellfish.

Practical lectures, discussions and an extensive consultation area will complement the wide range of exhibitors.

For further details please visit www.eurotier.com or get in contact with Ms Annette Reichhold, e-mail: A.Reichhold@dlg.org, phone: +49-69-24788-264.

Almatec® Launches New High-Pressure Pump Series AHD/AHS Almatec®, part of PSG®, a Dover company and premier manufacturer of sanitary air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pumps, is pleased to announce the launch of its new high-pressure pump series AHD/AHS. Debuted at IFAT 2016, these new pump series from Almatec are ideal for high-pressure applications up to 15 bar (218 psig).

A direct replacement for the AH Series, Almatec AHD Series pumps are the ideal solution for filter press applications and utilize an internal pressure booster while featuring the well-known Almatec ring-tightening structure. The “D” in AHD stands for Duplex, which means the reinforcement of the drive pressure is more than 2:1 by the internal pressure boosting stage. This is achieved thanks to a maximum drive pressure of 7 bar (100 psig), which allows the AHD to build up discharge pressures up to 15 bar (218 psig). AHD Series pumps are available in three sizes (AHD 15, 25 and 40) with maximum capacities of 4, 10 and 20 m3/h (17, 44 and 87 gpm).

The new AHS Series, which does not include an internal pressure booster, features an extremely rugged housing making it suitable for higher discharge pressures.

The “S” in AHS stands from Simplex, meaning the drive pressure is transferred to the medium in a ration of 1:1.

This makes the AHS Series ideal for a wide variety of applications under heavy load conditions - from low discharge pressures to high-pressure applications up to 15 bar (218 psig). Due to the 1:1 ratio of the drive/discharge pressure, the corresponding air pressure has to be supplied from the compressor itself or an external pressure booster, also offered by Almatec. AHS pumps are available in two sizes (AHS 15 and 25).

Constructed of PE UHMW with corrosion and abrasion proof housing, AHD and AHS Series pumps feature specially developed heavy-duty diaphragms for a longer service life; the maintenance-free PERSWING P® air-control system, which ensures accurate reversal of the main piston and low noise levels; a reliable ball valve JULY AUGUST 2016

Welcome to the world’s leading industry event!

15 – 18 November 2016 Hanover, Germany Almost 160,000 highly qualified visitors, interested in new technologies for dairy, poultry and aquaculture 2,368 international exhibitors on more than 240,000 m² exhibition floor space The complete programme for animal production – breeding, feeding, housing, processing and marketing Leading technologies for renewable energies and decentralized energy supply

Hotline: +49 69 24788-265 E-Mail: expo@DLG.org Organizer

including

www.eurotier.com www.DLG.org

Decentral

NEWS UPDATE

system; and adjustable suction and discharge ports with flange connections (DIN or ANSI). In addition, the cheek construction on these pumps incorporate 12 housing bolts as the sole fastening elements to form a solid basic unit with the fewest possible seats and joints. Unlike on the AH Series pump where single bolts press against the housing, the housing bolts of the AHD and AHS are tightened together against the ring per side. This design transmits the forces of the housing bolts into the housing parts evenly. The

results are a consistent flow of forces and an increased bolt torque ultimately increasing pump safety.

International disruptive innovation experts meet industry at SMART Horticulture Asia New fresh produce technology conference SMART Horticulture Asia taking place during ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA in September 2016 announces conference program on Information Management, Standards &

Nutriad helped sponsor 2015-2016 USA scholarships International feed additives producer Nutriad, alongside various other corporate sponsors, proudly sponsored Targeting Excellence and as such contributed to the funding of excellence awards to students in agriculture. Across the USA scholarships were awarded to 58 students enrolled in two-year, four- year, graduate and veterinary programs with a focus on food animal agriculture.

The mission of Targeting Excellence www.TargetingExcellence.org - is to sponsor events that bring together professional leaders of agricultural businesses, production systems, and institutions of higher education - with students - for the purpose of building personal relationships, exchanging ideas, and improving communications, while Grady Fain raising funds for scholarships.

David Funderburke, President of Targeting Excellence said, “Targeting Excellence is not just another ag student scholarship program. While the scholarships are an integral part of the organization, the events are also important as they create an environment where students can learn more about career opportunities in food animal production while spending face-to-face time with leaders of the industry”.

The need to support students in agriculture careers is great. A 2010 Ag Careers study reported that in the next 15 to 20 years, 77 million baby-boomers will retire with only 44 million generation-Xers to backfill their jobs. Many of the retiring baby-boomers are the builders and leaders of agriculture and, in particular, food animal production as we know it today. To ensure there is not a shortfall of qualified students, the leaders of Targeting Excellence are being pro-active and “Focused on Feeding the Future.”

Grady Fain, Senior Vice President Nutriad USA, stated: “We are proud to support the future of our agricultural industry in the USA. Through initiatives as brought forward by Targeting Excellence and by hiring talented professionals directly we invest in developing our industry and help develop the answers to tomorrow's challenges.”

Nutriad delivers products and services to over 80 countries through a network of own sales offices and distributors. Supported by 4 application laboratories and 5 manufacturing facilities on 3 continents. Find out more at www.nutriad.com

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Technology for Asia's fresh fruit and vegetable sector.

Hong Kong, 6 July 2016 During the first SMART Horticulture Asia, disruptive technology and information exchange are explored as the basis for a safe, efficient, effective and durable supply chain of fresh produce. Supply chain information from farm to fork is the foundation of the international fresh produce industry.

The morning plenaries are dedicated to how internet-ofveggies, Big Data, vision, drones and more disruptive technology are becoming “usable” for fresh produce.

Prof. S. Sukkarieh of the Australian Centre for Field Robotics (University of Sydney) is an international expert in the research, development and commercialization of field robotic systems. He provides an insight into the horticulture farm of the future. K. Moynihan, Chief Technology Officer at Compac, New Zealand, will demonstrate how data and best-of-breed integrated post-harvest facilities hold significant competitive advantages for those who use it right in developing and enhancing a brand as a safe, healthy and reliable food choice.

One of the aspects of these new developments is the next generation horticulture with urban farming, rooftop farming, aquaponics farming and so on.

J. Charnaya, General Manager at Priva International Beijing will give an update on their most inspiring projects.

However, the question remains how to implement all these new technologies in conventional cultivation. F. JULY AUGUST 2016

NEWS UPDATE

Wijdooge, General Manager at Ridder (Shanghai) Agricultural Technology Co. Ltd, China, will provide examples on how new concepts can be scaled for use in established cultivation.

After lunch, four breakout sessions will be held with a focus on crucial aspects of information management in the value chain of fresh produce.

Farming is becoming more and more information driven. J. Doldersum of Rijk Zwaan, the Netherlands, shows how a seed company supports their growers with digital services for crop management. Nowadays produce cultivation provides more data than ever.

Phenotyping the plant or crop with vision technology offers

opportunities to optimize horticulture, as will be demonstrated by R. van de Zedde, Senior Scientist at Wageningen University & Research Centre, Netherlands.

Technology is changing the supply chain. This is not only driven by technology but also by consumers. E. Treacy, VP Supply Chain Efficiencies at Produce Marketing Association, USA , will highlight current technology trends and their impact on the fresh produce supply chain.

The increasing importance of robust traceability systems represents challenges for fresh produce value chains around the globe. New technology offers solutions to these

challenges. Dr. H. Maurer, Director of Strategy and Marketing at the AgriChain Centre, New Zealand, discusses the traceability journey under way in the New Zealand domestic produce supply channels.

Sweet pepper: releasing swirskii earlier with NutrimiteTM boosts control The commercial availability of Amblyseius swirskii heralded a revolution in biocontrol in the Almeria sweet pepper industry.

“Employed by growers in this region for many years, swirskii is now routinely used in sweet pepper crops,” says Ivan Cano, technical advisor at Biobest Sistemas. “However,

EIMA INTERNATIONAL 2016 International Agricultural and Gardening Machinery Exhibition

The agriculture of the future. Here’s everything you could imagine

Bologna 9 -13 November 2016 FederUnacoma Surl - I talia - 00159 Roma - Via Venafro, 5 - Tel. (+39) 06.432.981 - Fax (+39) 06.4076.370 - eima@federunacoma.it

www.eima.it

Organized by FederUnacoma surl in collaboration with BolognaFiere Spa

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NEWS UPDATE

installations are pollen dependent and until now have been reliant on 20-30% of the flowers appearing in the crop usually approximately four weeks after planting.

“This strategy is not without its challenges due to large pest pressures early in the crop, unreliability of the flowering

New Area Sales Manager for Pericoli Italia Pericoli Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Giorgio Caviglia as Area Sales Manager for Pericoli Italia. He will be responsible for Southern Europe countries completing the sturdy sales team strongly desired by Mr. Giorgio Caviglia Fabrizio Sappa (Sales Manager).

31 years old, he graduated in Political Science at the University of Genoa and took master degree in Human Rights at EIUC - European Inter University Centre and he can absolutely be defined a real globetrotter. His curriculum is rich in overseas experiences which makes him a brilliant, openminded and professional person.

He speaks fluently English and Spanish and has a high level professional background including positions at UNICEF offices in New York, Chamber of Commerce in Santo Domingo and was also volunteers in the fire fighters unit. In spite of this he remains a humble, helpful person with a natural inclination for human relations.

After a training period during which he has proved his attitudes for team work and for our business, he now officially becomes a member of the Group.

“Giorgio has been operative for a couple of months and he had the opportunity to fully understand and meet our market and our customers.

Now he is ready to serve his countries in complete autonomy and to develop some important and promising areas which unfortunately we didn't take enough care of in the past. I'm sure his results will come soon” - declared Fabrizio Sappa.

All the Pericoli Team gives a warm welcome to Giorgio and wishes him a long and prosperous career within the Group.

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period making scheduling of swirskii orders difficult and often the need for chemical corrections.”

2015 proved to be a difficult year with high whitefly pressure just before flowering delaying releases of swirskii and, in many cases, the whole biocontrol programme (Orius, A. colemani).

While polyphagus in character and showing great adaptability to high temperatures, swirskii needs a satisfactory food source for fast population growth.

“In the absence of suitable pest, the mites feed on the crop pollen to build up numbers,” explains Ivan. “However, it would be advantageous for swirskii to establish earlier.”

Developed by Biobest, NutrimiteTM is a highly nutritional food supplement based on specially selected pollen. It accelerates and enhances the population development of pollen feeding phytoseid predatory mites, such as swirskii.

By employing NutrimiteTM, swirskii can now be released before flowering improving control of target pests - thrips, whitefly and spidermite - in sweet pepper crops. Established sooner, the predator provides greater protection earlier on.

Several commercial trials in Almeria in 2015, carried out by Biobest's R&D team based in Spain, have shown several tangible benefits of earlier swirskii establishment.

“Our trials demonstrate that by using NutrimiteTM swirskii establishment is improved and can be at least ten days earlier, boosting overall control of target pests,” explains Antonio Robledo from Biobest Sistemas' R&D department. “Technically, it is possible to release even

earlier, however, most growers prefer to use compatible chemicals early in the crop to keep it as clean as possible before releases.

“NutrimiteTM has a higher nutritional value than sweet pepper pollen,” he says. “With a single application of NutrimiteTM (500g/ha) our trials have shown the swirksii population can remain 2 - 3 times higher for at least a month, compared to the standard strategy.”

In addition, following good distribution of NutrimiteTM pollen grains over the plants and crop, swirskii distribution improves providing greater protection after just a few days.

Bellota earns recognition as a John Deere “Hall of Fame” Supplier Bellota Agrisolutions has earned recognition as a Partnerlevel supplier for 2015 which has inducted into the Supplier Hall of Fame in the John Deere Achieving Excellence Program.

The Partner-level status is Deere & Company's highest supplier rating. Hall of Fame status is given only after a supplier attains a Partnerlevel rating for five consecutive years.

“Bellota Agrisolutions is honored to receive such prestigious award from John Deere” Eduardo Urrestarazu, VP Marketing and Commercial Manager at Bellota Agrisolutions, said. “We are grateful to have a client that values our continuous improvement and effort for offering top quality products as much as it does. At Bellota Agrisolutions we are consistently focused on implementing improvement measures to reach the highest JULY AUGUST 2016

NEWS UPDATE

level of service for our clients and we are proud to be a John Deere supplier�.

From its manufacturing plants in Milan (IL, US), Legazpi (Spain) and Indaial (Brazil), Bellota Agrisolutions supplies coulters, openers, assemblies, concave discs and tines to John Deere manufacturing plants in Des Moines (IW), Seeding (IL), Valley City (ND), John Deere Mexico and John Deere Brazil.

Suppliers who participate in the Achieving Excellence program are evaluated annually in several key performance categories, including quality, cost management, delivery and technical support, which is a measure of responsiveness.

John Deere Supply Management created the program in 1991 to provide a

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supplier evaluation and feedback process that promotes continuous improvement.

Most Important Horticultural Fair for China Registers Substantial Exhibitor and Visitor Pluses This year's Hortiflorexpo IPM Beijing has excelled itself: There is a succession of records in the assessment of the joint fair of Hortiflorexpo China and IPM ESSEN. "This year, we were able to substantially raise the numbers not only of exhibitors but also of visitors and are more than satisfied.

Hortiflorexpo IPM Beijing has once more provided evidence of what significance it has for the green sector. The Chinese market is booming," was the summary made by Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen.

At Hortiflorexpo IPM Beijing 2016 from May 11 to 13, 679 exhibitors from 30 countries presented their innovations and trends in the green sector to an international public at the fair. For comparison: Two years ago, there were just 427 exhibitors from 26 countries in Peking.

This enormous growth, with regard to the registration of exhibitors alone, was also the reason why the fair this year took place on Peking's largest fair site, the new China International Exhibition Center.

On over 31,000 square metres, Hortiflorexpo IPM Beijing has found its new home here.

It was possible to substantially raise the number of visitors, too. With over 28,900 guests at the fair, around 10,000 more came this year

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than just two years ago. The internationality is thus undiminished on a high level.

The trade visitors travelled from 46 countries on all continents.

This positive assessment goes back to Messe Essen which, as the international co-organiser and due to its influence from IPM ESSEN, has set the points towards China.

Tomato experts are impressed with LED results in Finland at third Philips High Wire Event Eindhoven - On March 8 and 9, 2016, a select group of 50 innovative tomato growers, owners and consultants from 9 countries participated in the third Philips High Wire Event organized by Philips Horticulture LED lighting to learn from each other. Participants visited four

greenhouse growers in Finland who are using LED grow lights to improve the yields, quality and cost-efficiency of their tomato crops in this challenging northern climate.

“This year we traveled to

Finland with its harsh winter climate of extremely cold temperatures and short daylight periods. This climate poses extreme challenges for greenhouse operations, and we can learn a lot from the growers

Valagro rewards the Best Growers of 2015 Valagro, a leader in the production and marketing of biostimulants and specialty nutrients, rewards excellence in agricultural production with Best Grower of the Year. These are the best agricultural producers chosen by Platinum distributors within 4 clusters in which the Group is present with its extensive distribution and sales network. They will receive the coveted annual award that rewards their ability to make the best use of Valagro solutions, evaluated on the basis of measurable parameters.

In the Europe cluster the title of "best grower" was presented, in collaboration with the Platinum distributor OOO AGRISOL, to the Ukrainian producer Yuri Andreev who was able to use in a professional manner Valagro solutions for the different stages of plant growth, achieving great harvests. Thanks to effectiveness of Valagro solutions such

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as MEGAFOL®, PLANTAFOL® and RADIFARM®, Mr. Yuri Andreev managed to collect 3 Mt/Ha on sunflowers, 6 Mt/Ha on corn, 2,5Mt/Ha of mustard and 4 Mt/Ha on oats and barley, outstanding results - for a total of 1200 hectares - considering the poor soil and unfavorable weather conditions of Luhansk region.

The Best Grower of the Year is an integral part of the exclusive range of services offered to top customers in the Valagro@yourservice. This is the service model that the Group adopted to achieve an ever growing customer engagement which is able to promote sharing and partnership more effectively than traditional sales targets and market strategies.

"We are really proud to be able to present this award to Yuri Andreev because his commitment is concrete proof of the value that we have been able to build with one of our best

trading partners, OOO AGRISOL. At the same time, it is also a tangible sign of people's trust in Valagro and its innovative solutions" Mariano Martin, Head of Farm Business Unit Europe, commented. "This recognition means fully implementing the principle of customer focus, in other words the distinctive Valagro approach that aims to place the real needs of customers at the centre of business activities and strategies, to create increasingly innovative and effective responses".

The award was given on May, the 24th in Vinnytsia (Ukraine) at the Reikartz Hotel during an event attended by Mariano Martin, Head of Farm Business Unit Europe, Sebastiano D'Amico, Valagro's Crop Manager, Denis Mirgorod and Dmitry Mykhailiuk for AGRISOL, and some of the Yuri Andreev Best Grower 2015 employees.

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NEWS UPDATE

who are using our LED grow lights in this environment. This event presents a unique opportunity for people across the tomato community to learn more about applications in different climates and varieties,” says Udo van Slooten, manager of Philips Horticulture LED lighting. “Our customers were inspired and got a deep understanding by discussing experiences and ways of working with peer growers and crop consultants. This often leads to new insights, and inspires new strategies for growing using LED lighting.”

Participants were impressed with the quality of the installations and results being achieved in Finland. “This is really like the G7 for tomato growers,” says one of the participants.

The tour began at Martin

JULY AUGUST 2016

Sigg's greenhouse in Närpes, Finland which moved to a 100% LED installation for his Merlice variety. “I was proud to share our experiences using a combination of two lines of LED interlighting with LED toplighting with the visitors,” says Sigg. “This installation gives us much more freedom to achieve even higher light levels without the higher heat levels created by HPS lighting. It is the perfect solution for a lower greenhouse like ours.” Sigg reports that the crop looks very strong and generative and production has exceeded his expectations so far.

Growing under LEDs allows him to maintain a good balance and openness which is crucial for scaling up to

higher stem density at the right moment.

Stefan Gulin from the Gulin Oy Ab nursery grows Encore tomatoes and increased his yields by 20% in an LED interlighting trial. That's when he decided to expand the LED area to an entire climate area using a combination of HPS and two lines of LED interlighting. The tour also stopped at the Stig-Erik Vikars nursery, which is using a combination of HPS and LED interlighting to improve the quality and yields of its Encore tomatoes. Another example of the HPS and LED interlighting combination was also shown at the nursery of Johan Lassander Oy Ab. With this installation they have achieved year-round tomatoes for the Sassari cherry tomato variety.

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13

INTERNATIONAL GREEN WEEK PREVIEW

GREEN WEEK 2017: PREPARATIONS ARE WELL UNDER WAY FOR THE LEADING AGRIBUSINESS TRADE FAIR FOLLOWING THE POSITIVE REACTIONS THIS YEAR THE PROFESSIONAL CENTER IN THE MARSHALL HAUS WILL AGAIN BE PROVIDING A DISPLAY OF REGIONAL FOOD PRODUCTS FROM GERMANY AND ABROAD.

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A

griculture, food and horticulture: these have been the show's three mainstays ever since the International Green Week (IGW) was launched in 1926.

From 20 to 29 January 2017 Berlin's longest-established and best-attended trade fair will be extending an invitation to the 82nd edition, which is due to take place in the display halls on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. Messe Berlin expects more than 1,600 exhibitors from some 70 countries and over 400,000

GULF AGRICULTURE

trade visitors and members of the general public to attend.

Preparations and planning for the leading trade fair for agribusiness are now well under way. The programme of conference events will focus in particular on the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture 2017 (GFFA) which will take place from 19 to 21 January. Around 70 ministers of agriculture, deputy ministers and highranking members of the food and farming industries are expected to attend. Over 300

conferences, meetings, workshops and seminars for experts will be held at the Green Week.

Following the positive reactions this year the Professional Center in the Marshall Haus will again be providing a display of regional food products from Germany and abroad which will specifically target the retail trade. This is where, besides their individual displays, exhibitors can display food products to trade visitors from the retail food sector, catering, JULY AUGUST 2016

INTERNATIONAL GREEN WEEK PREVIEW

gastronomy and the hotel industry. Seals of approval, product certificates and important delivery information can now also be provided.

IGW 2017 will feature a new section with a market hall atmosphere, where exhibitors can offer products such as street food and craft beer and where smaller niche market producers can display luxury foods and specialities.

In 2017 attractive special shows focusing on new topics are being organised again, among them the Livestock Hall, the World of Pets and the International Floral Hall, which will include displays by the International Garden Exhibition (IGA) 2017 and garden allotment holders. The trade fair will also reflect the global food industry market and feature the annual culinary tour of Germany which represents the largest display of regional specialities to be found at any event. The organisers of the main public attractions in the Agriculture section, such as the Farm Experience, the special show of the Federal Ministry of

Food and Agriculture, Multitalented Wood, nature.tec and 'Keen on the country' will be preparing an experience for visitors, as will the Food Dialogue, the 'Weinwerk', the Seafood Market and the Bio Hall in the Food sections.

The International Green Week Berlin 2017 is organised by Messe Berlin GmbH. Its non-commercial sponsors are the German Farmers' Union (DBV) and the Federal Association of the German Food Industry (BVE).

International Green Week 20–29 January 2017 Direct contact:

greenweek.de

UAE: Kerstin.Abed@ahkuae.com Saudi Arabia: al-dalali@ahk-arabia.com

JULY AUGUST 2016

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15

GREENTECH REVIEW

CONTENT PROGRAMME, INNOVATIONS AND NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES RULED THE SHOW

T

he 2016 edition of GreenTech concluded three busy days marked by the buzz of business. Visitors came from across the globe to see new

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technologies and find out what is new and upcoming in the industry.

The Breeders Pavilion and information-packed sessions at the Theatres were just two

features not to be missed at the event, taking place at RAI Amsterdam. At the opening on the first day, Priva was crowned Overall Winner of the Innovation Award with JULY AUGUST 2016

GREENTECH REVIEW

their Deleafing Robot. The GreenTech Innovation Award represents worldwide recognition in horticulture technology. Visitors spent more time at the show floor and that resulted in a vibrant exhibition with over 185,000 business meetings.

“The success of GreenTech was the great atmosphere and JULY AUGUST 2016

buzz on the floor.” says Mariska Dreschler, Manager GreenTech at RAI Amsterdam. “From the Award Ceremony on the opening day of the show to the high degree of knowledge exchange at the complementary sessions programme and the innovations in the

‘‘

THE SUCCESS OF GREENTECH WAS THE GREAT ATMOSPHERE AND BUZZ ON THE FLOOR” Mariska Dreschler, Manager GreenTech

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GREENTECH REVIEW

MAJOR EXHIBITORS SHOWCASING

InnovationLAB to the networking fun at the various social gatherings, GreenTech was the place to be. Now the work starts for GreenTech 2018, we look forward to it!�

More international Over three days a total attendance of 9,721 professionals from 113 countries visited the show (97 in 2014). The international share of attendees also keeps growing. This edition 52% of the visitors came from outside the Netherlands. The largest growth came from Asia and the USA. Innovations Innovations are reason number one for visitors to come to the show. There was an innovation route with 73 products and the Innovation Award together with the InnovationLAB puts the innovations in an even brighter spotlight. Priva won the Overall GreenTech Innovation Award and the international jury awarded two nominations with a Category Award. ISO Plantsampler by ISO group won in the Category Production, HortiMaX-Go! by Ridder Hortimax Group won in the Category Automation Solutions.

Full steam ahead An unprecedented 56% of exhibitors, representing over 200 companies signed up for the 2018 edition before the show closed. A fourth hall has been added to the floor plan, to allow for expansion. The next edition of GreenTech will be held 12-13-14 June 2018 and kick off with the GreenTech Summit the day before on June 11.

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JULY AUGUST 2016

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

JULY AUGUST 2016

GREENTECH REVIEW

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19

PLANTER BAGS

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL: AN INDUSTRY LEADER EASY-FILL™ — HELPING NURSERIES AND TREE FARMS EVOLVE A Horticultural Evolution: Nurseries and tree farms have been growing trees using traditional methods, in ground or in containers for centuries.

With the invention of plastic, the traditional clay pots were replaced with black plastic containers. While the plastic containers were easier to transport and lighter in weight they also brought about problems of root spiralling and poor root growth.

Eventually replanting these trees caused a significant

number to die, creating a loss for everyone.

WHS Australia was looking at this problem almost 20 years ago and started testing HDPE woven planter bags as a possible replacement for the traditional plastic pots. Remarkable results were obtained within just a few months, with the main benefit being a far superior root system that eliminated root circling.

This was the innovation that fuelled the beginning of WHS Australia. Two years later, after perfecting the design of the bags to maximise its many benefits the EASY-FILL ™ bag was produced.

Helping Change the Way You Grow: Today, the market is changing.

The demand for green cities and urban areas is insatiable, thus trees and plants are being transported around the world in numbers that have never been seen. Water has become a commodity that is more expensive per litre than fuel.

Add to this, the consumers concerns over soil quality and soil health and it seems that the nurseries and tree growers are up against unsurmountable odds. Luckily, the foresight of WHS Australia with its EASYFILL ™ planter bags can provide the solution.

Transport of trees is simplified with Easy-Fill's heavy duty handles, able to be lifted with forklifts or by crane.

Handling of the trees is

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minimised as the trees are grown in the bag and there is no need to uproot, or use tree spades that can damage the root system.

Trees in the bags can be loaded onto truck beds or shipping containers to reach their final destination without damage, stress or water loss to the roots.

Growing in the Easy-Fill planter bag ensures that the amount of water that is delivered to each tree is controlled by the nursery and not lost in the ground. In the same way, nutrients can be delivered individually. Contaminants in the ground are kept away from trees and their food by products. The soil health is controlled by the nursery and is kept clean and free from contaminants in the ground.

Manufacturer Guarantee: WHS Australia remains committed to its customers through expert advice and product development. Of course, the market has capitalised on our findings and there are other inferior producers of woven planter bags. Nevertheless, EasyFill planter bags are recognised around the world for their dependability and manufacturer's guarantee. The company believes in manufacturing a superior product with personal customer service that includes adapting the design for different environments and individual needs. WHS Australia has played a role in the evolution of the Horticultural industry and is most definitely an industry leader in its field.

JULY AUGUST 2016

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL: AN INDUSTRY LEADER

EASY-FILL™

WHS AUSTRALIA

Helping nurseries and tree farms evolve

W H

S

AUSTRALIA

• Promotes superior root growth and air pruning, prevents root circling • Extra strength handles can be lifted by forklift or crane • High quality UV additives for strength and durability • Manufacturer Guarantee •Innovative Customised and Patented Designs Available

WHS Australia

Postal Address

General Enquiries

Suite 16 350 Cambridge Street, Wembley Western Australia 6014

PO Box 70 Wembley 6913 Western Australia

Ph: +61 8 9287 0500 Fax: +61 8 9387 5962 Email: info@whsaustralia.com.au

whsaustralia.com.au

Media partner:

AGRICULTURE MACHINERIES

SPECIALIST IN INNOVATIVE EQUIPMENT FOR PLOUGHING AND SEEDING

T

he company ma/ag starts its activity in 1976, 40 years ago, from the idea of the founder, cav. Angelo Ruggeri, that from always is convinced that the winner solutions were to find the alternative of ploughing.

Starting from 1990's, he has understood the importance of machines that, by combining together different type of tools (discs, anchors, springs, rollers‌), can grant the higher productivity, reducing the costs.

This is the starting of our constant growing in sales and production: the numbers of machines grow year by year, passing from 100 pieces to 800 pieces per year and the turnover has increased more and more, with an annual growth rate, stating in 10 to 15%.

Also the number of employers has growth: from 5 people, now we have 2 buildings, 48 employers, divided in designers and planners, using computer system (FEM), drawing (CAD) and three-dimensional design, as

THE NUMBERS OF MACHINES GROW YEAR BY YEAR, PASSING FROM 100 PIECES TO 800 PIECES PER YEAR AND THE TURNOVER HAS INCREASED MORE AND MORE, WITH AN ANNUAL GROWTH RATE, STATING IN 10 TO 15% well as specialized workers and commercial and administrative staff.

In these last years, the business activity has grown, developing cooperation in all Italy and increasing the presence in different community countries (Great Britain, France, Germany,

Spain, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia) and extracommunity ones (Morocco, Russia, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Mexico, Cameroun, Sudan, U.A.E.) where we imposed ourselves with success for the seriousness and the reliability of our machines.

QUALITY & TECHNOLOGY At the service of an increasingly demanding agriculture Specialists from 40 years in innovative equipment for minimum tillage and conservation agriculture and from 10 years also specialists in seeding

26011 Casalbuttano (Cremona) - ITALY Via Giovanni Paolo II, 12 Tel. +39 0374 362680 Fax +39 0374 362280

www.ma-ag.com - info@ma-ag.com

JULY AUGUST 2016

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AGRICULTURE MACHINERIES

SPECTACULAR PAGEANT OF 70 TRACTORS MARKS 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE COVENTRY PRODUCED FERGUSON TE20

M

assey Ferguson, a worldwide brand of AGCO (NYSE:AGCO), reports that enthusiastic crowds turned out to see the historic '70 Tractors for 70 Years' parade through the streets of the City of Coventry on 30 July.

The cavalcade and display of machines old and new was staged

by Culture Coventry to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the start of production of the iconic Ferguson TE20 tractor. In July 1946, the first Ferguson TE20 tractor, affectionately known as the 'Little Grey Fergie', rolled off the assembly line at its former Banner Lane manufacturing plant in Coventry in the UK. The tractor was the brainchild of engineer and inventor, Harry Ferguson, a founder of the present-day Massey Ferguson, one of the world's foremost producers of farm machinery for global markets.

The tractors for the event were brought together by the Friends of Ferguson Heritage Club. Led by a 20.3hp 1947 Ferguson TE20, equipped with a 2-furrow plough, and the mighty 400hp MF 8737 - the most powerful tractor in the current Massey Ferguson line-up - the procession wound its way through Coventry finishing at Millennium Place outside the Transport Museum.

Unusually, it was not the familiar

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Massey Ferguson red livery for the MF 8737. Instead, it had been especially prepared by Massey Ferguson with striking black paintwork - paying homage to the prototype Ferguson Black tractor of 1933 which was the first to incorporate Harry Ferguson's pioneering ideas for a three-point linkage system to connect tractor and implement. In a tribute to the manufacturing legacy of the Banner Lane plant, Massey Ferguson named the black MF 8737 the 'City of Coventry'.

Seated in the cab for the duration of the parade was the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Lindsley Harvard.

“It was a marvellous event and wonderful to see this pageant celebrating the brilliant engineering of the Ferguson TE20 which changed the world of farm mechanisation.” says Campbell Scott, Massey Ferguson Director Marketing Services (who himself drove a 1949 TEA20 tractor in the blue livery of Brighton Corporation).

“We are so proud of this superb legacy of practical and innovative technology which continues to inspire our design engineers and is at the heart of Massey Ferguson's 21st century mission to produce straightforward, dependable equipment to increase the efficiency and productivity of farmers all over the world. Today, more than 200,000 tractors

bearing our famous Massey Ferguson 'Triple Triangle' brand are built every year for global markets.”

Tractors taking part in the pageant showcased a wide range of Ferguson, MasseyHarris and Massey Ferguson machines produced since 1946.

The tractor coming from furthest afield for the event was a 1949 Ferguson TEA20 fitted with half-track equipment which travelled nearly 200 miles from Exeter in Devon.

From much closer to home was a 2015 MF 5610 Dyna-4 on turf tyres based in Finham, Coventry. A beautifullyrestored, prize-winning MF 65 industrial tractor painted in the JULY AUGUST 2016

AGRICULTURE MACHINERIES

‘‘

IT WAS A MARVELLOUS EVENT AND WONDERFUL TO SEE THIS PAGEANT CELEBRATING THE BRILLIANT ENGINEERING OF THE FERGUSON TE20 WHICH CHANGED THE WORLD OF FARM MECHANISATION.” Campbell Scott, Massey Ferguson Director Marketing Services

requisite yellow from Skipton, Yorkshire represented the nonagricultural ranges.

Over half a million Ferguson TE20 tractors (Tractor England) were built at the Banner Lane plant between 6 July 1946 and 13 July 1956. Key to the global success of the tractor was its unique three-point linkage implement attachment system controlled by the tractor's JULY AUGUST 2016

hydraulics. Designated the 'Ferguson System,' this effectively turned the tractor and implement into a single working unit, replacing the previous cumbersome trailed method of implement operation.

Massey Ferguson is a leading global farm machinery brand producing a full-line range of tractors, harvesting equipment and

agricultural implements. Its well-known red-liveried equipment is distributed in 140 countries.

Established in 1994, The Friends of Ferguson Heritage Club has over 5000 members worldwide who are dedicated to all things Ferguson, Massey Ferguson and Massey Harris. (www.FOFH.co.uk) The Ferguson TE20's 70th anniversary inspired Culture Coventry's current 'Tractors From Factory to Field' exhibition at Coventry Transport Museum (runs until 19 September) and the public display of the Daniel Massey Bronze Sculpture at the city's Herbert Museum and Art Gallery.

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AGRICULTURE MACHINERIES

CASE IH HOLDS TRAINING EVENTS FOR MIDDLE EASTERN SALESPEOPLE AND CUSTOMERS

F

ollowing the success of its commercial training and customer demonstration event in South Africa, Case IH replicated the format in Saudi Arabia with a session held in the National Agricultural Development Company between sales representatives and local customers from the Middle East region.

The brand also invited sugarcane growers to attend its Sugar Camp in Australia, recognised for the cutting edge technology and sustainable sugarcane growing.

Hay and Forage Training Camp in Saudi Arabia Case IH, in collaboration with its distributor in Saudi Arabia GCC, recently conducted a twoday Hay and Forage commercial training event for its salespeople. The event was held in the Al Jouf region, in the north of the Country.

The session consisted of

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classroom training and a practical workshop with competitive comparisons in the field. The event, which focused on mowers and conditioners, self-propelled windrowers, windrowers heads, wheel rakes and balers, highlighted the advantages and the performance of Case IH products.

The training session was held in the National Agricultural Development Company - the second biggest corporate farm in the country where the participants were able to conduct night-time baling operations in the field. On the second day, more than 40 customers joined the event. “This training certainly helped to increase our salespeople's confidence in presenting the advantages of the Case IH products and raise awareness of their benefits among customers. We were able to demonstrate our competence and the performance of our Hay and Forage equipment

compared to the competition,� says Hassib Thabet, Case IH Business Manager for the Middle East and Part of Maghreb.

Sugarcane Camp 2016 takes Case IH Customers to Australia Case IH organized a workshop for its key sugar cane customers from Africa and the Middle East. The event took place in Australia, one of the world's most efficient and innovative producers and exporters of sugar recognized around the world for cutting edge technology and sustainable cane growing.

The participants visited various growing areas in the country to view different conditions and approaches to farming. They were able to see how Case IH is helping innovation leaders as the partner of choice for progressive sugar growers.

The workshop began in JULY AUGUST 2016

AGRICULTURE MACHINERIES

Townsville, an important sugargrowing district, with an introduction of the Austoft sugarcane harvesters and an overview of the Australian sugar industry. The participants were taken on field visits to see seed cane harvesting, planting operations and land preparation, where they were able to see first hand the Case IH AFS Guidance system at work.

The tour continued with a visit to the Sugar Research Australia Plant Breeding facility to discuss plant breeding and variety selection.

To supplement the information presented at the research facility, the brand also organized a trip to a local mixed sugar and vegetable farm in Cairns. This city developed a railhead and major port to service the agricultural market of the Atherton Tableland region - including sugarcane export.

After a day in the Atherton Tablelands, the Sugar Camp 2016 moved to Sydney, where Case IH Australian team welcomed the African and Middle East customers, who shared ideas and experiences from their own regional industries.

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27

RESEARCH

VERMICOMPOST - A GIFT

By Dr. S. Anandhi and Dr. A. Sadasakthi

V

ermicompost are defined as organic matter of plant and/or animal origin consisting mainly of finely-divided earthworm castings, produced non thermophilically with biooxidation and stabilization of the organic material, due to interactions between aerobic microorganism and earthworms, as the materials pass through the earthworm gut. Worm or vermiculture is a useful

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technique for recycling kitchen and livestock wastes into a rich organic fertilizer, for producing high-protein feed for poultry and initiating a lucrative business selling worms and worm castings for the small farm. Worms are invaluable partners in building the soil in your garden, be it a kitchen or garden or a large field.

Keywords: Vermicompost, earthworm, organic, benefits, economy

Introduction Vermicomposting is the process by which worms are used to convert organic materials (usually wastes) into a humuslike material known as vermicompost. The goal is to process the material as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Earthworms consume biomass and excrete it in digested form called worm casts. Worm casts are popularly called as Black gold. The casts are rich in JULY AUGUST 2016

RESEARCH

BY NATURE'S PLOUGHMAN nutrients, growth promoting substances, beneficial soil micro flora and having properties of inhibiting pathogenic microbes.

Vermicompost is stable, fine granular organic manure, which enriches soil quality by improving its physicochemical and biological properties. It is highly useful in raising seedlings and for crop production. Vermicompost is becoming popular as a major component of organic farming system.

Vermiculture is the culture of earthworms. The goal is to continually increase the number of worms in order to obtain a sustainable harvest. The worms are either used to expand a vermicomposting operation or sold to customers who use them for the same or other purposes.

Species suitable for vermicomposting There are different species of earthworms viz. Eisenia fetida (Red earthworm), Eudrilus eugeniae (night crawler), Perionyx excavatus etc. Red earthworm is preferred because of its high multiplication rate and thereby converts the organic matter into

Sieved finished vermicompost

vermicompost within 45-50 days. Since it is a surface feeder it converts organic materials into vermicompost from top.

Desirable attributes of worms suitable for vermicomposting Worm should exhibit high biomass consumption together with a high efficiency of conversion of ingested biomass to body proteins, a physiological trait required for achieving high growth rate.

Worm should have wider range of tolerance to environmental factors including adaptation to feed on a variety of organic residues Worm should produce large numbers of cocoons with

Important characteristics of red earthworm (Eisenia fetida) Characters Body length Body weight Maturity Conversion rate Cocoon production Incubation of cocoon

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: Eisenia fetida : 3-10 cm : 0.4-0.6 g : 50-55 days : 2.0 q/1500 worms/2 months : 1 in every 3 days : 20-23 days

short hatching time enabling rapid population growth and, linked to this rapid growth, faster composting of organic residues.

Life cycle of the worm should be such that mature/adult phase is quickly reached.

Using a mixture of species is likely to be more useful than use of single species.

Worm should be disease resistant.

Eisenia fetida

Vermicomposting process It is an aerobic, bio-oxidation, non-thermophilic process of organic waste decomposition that depends upon earthworms to fragment, mix and promote microbial activity. The basic requirements during the process of vermicomposting are Suitable bedding Food source Adequate moisture Adequate aeration Suitable temperature Suitable pH Vermicomposting materials Decomposable organic wastes such as animal excreta, kitchen waste, farm residues and forest litter are commonly used as GULF AGRICULTURE

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composting materials. In general, animal dung mostly cow dung and dried chopped crop residues are the key raw materials. Mixture of leguminous and non-leguminous crop residues enriches the quality of vermicompost.

Methods of vermicomposting Vermicromposting is done by various methods, among them bed and pit methods are more common.

Bed method: Composting is done on the pucca / kachcha floor by making bed (6x2x2 feet size) of organic mixture.

This method is easy to maintain and to practice.

Pit method: Composting is done in the cemented pits of size 5x5x3 feet. The unit is covered with thatch grass or any other locally available materials. This method is not preferred due to poor aeration, water logging at bottom, and more cost of production.

Bed method

Phase of vermicomposting Phase 1: Processing involving collection of wastes, shredding,

mechanical separation of the metal, glass and ceramics and storage of organic wastes.

Phase 2: Pre digestion of organic waste for twenty days by heaping the material along with cattle dung slurry. This process partially digests the material and fit for earthworm consumption. Cattle dung and biogas slurry may be used after drying. Wet dung should not be used for vermicompost production.

Phase 3: Preparation of earthworm bed. A concrete base is required to put the waste for vermicompost preparation.

Loose soil will allow the worms to go into soil and also while watering, all the dissolvable nutrients go into the soil along with water.

Phase 4: Collection of earthworm after vermicompost collection. Sieving the composted material to separate fully composted material. The partially composted material will be again put into vermicompost bed.

Phase 5: Storing the vermicompost in proper place

to maintain moisture and allow the beneficial microorganisms to grow.

Selection of site for vermicompost production Vermicompost can be produced in any place with shade, high humidity and cool. Abandoned cattle shed or poultry shed or unused buildings can be used.

If it is to be produced in open area, shady place is selected.

A thatched roof may be provided to protect the process from direct sunlight and rain.

The waste heaped for vermicompost production should be covered with moist gunny bags.

Containers for vermicompost production A cement tub may be constructed to a height of 2.5 feet and a breadth of 3 feet. The length may be fixed to any level depending upon the size of the room. The bottom of the tub is made to slope like structure to drain the excess water from vermicompost unit. A small sump is necessary to collect the drain water.

In another option over the hand floor, hollow blocks / bricks may be arranged in compartment to a height of one feet, breadth of 3 feet and length to a desired level to have quick harvest. In this method, moisture assessment will be very easy. No excess water will be drained. Vermicompost can also be prepared in wooden boxes, plastic buckets or in any containers with a drain hole at the bottom.

Vermiculture bed Vermiculture bed or worm bed (3 cm) can be prepared by placing after saw dust or husk or coir waste or sugarcane

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RESEARCH

trash in the bottom of tub / container. A layer of fine sand (3 cm) should be spread over the culture bed followed by a layer of garden soil (3 cm).

All layers must be moistened with water.

Worm Food Compost worms are big eaters.

Under ideal conditions, they are able to consume in excess of their body weight each day, although the general rule-ofthumb is half of their body weight per day. They will eat almost anything organic (that is, of plant or animal origin), but they definitely prefer some foods to others. Manures are the most commonly used worm feedstock, with dairy and beef manures generally considered the best natural food for Eisenia, with the possible exception of rabbit manure. The former, being more often available in large quantities, is the feed most often used.

Selection for vermicompost production Cattle dung (except poultry and goat), farm wastes, crop residues, vegetable market waste, flower market waste, agro industrial waste, fruit market waste and all other bio degradable waste are suitable for vermicompost production.

The cattle dung should be dried in open sunlight before used for vermicompost production. All other waste should be predigested with cow dung for twenty days before put into vermibed for composting.

Putting the waste in the container The predigested waste material should be mud with 30% cattle dung either by weight or volume. The mixed waste is JULY AUGUST 2016

placed into the tub / container upto brim. The moisture level should be maintained at 60%.

Over this material, the selected earthworm is placed uniformly.

For one-meter length, one-meter breadth and 0.5-meter height, 1 kg of worm (1000 Nos.) is required. There is no necessity that earthworm should be put inside the waste. Earthworm will move inside on its own.

Watering the vermibed Daily watering is not required for vermibed. But 60% moisture should be maintained throughout the period. If necessity arises, water should be sprinkled over the bed rather than pouring the water.

Watering should be stopped before the harvest of vermicompost.

Harvesting Vermicompost In the tub method of composting, the castings formed on the top layer are collected periodically. The collection may be carried out once in a week. With hand the casting will be scooped out and

put in a shady place as heap like structure. The harvesting of casting should be limited up to earthworm presence on top layer. This periodical harvesting is necessary for free flow and retain the compost quality. Other wise the finished compost get compacted when watering is done. In small bed type of vermicomposting method, periodical harvesting is not required. Since the height of the waste material heaped is around 1 foot, the produced vermicompost will be harvested after the process is over.

Pit method

Preventive measures floor of the unit should be compact to prevent earthworms' migration into the soil.

15-20 days old cow dung should be used to avoid excess heat.

The organic wastes should be free from plastics, chemicals, pesticides and metals etc.

Aeration should be maintained for proper growth and multiplication of earthworms.

The

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RESEARCH

Improves

structural stability of the soil, thereby preventing soil erosion.

Enhances the quality of grains/ fruits due to increased sugar content.

Containers for vermicompost production

Optimum

moisture level (3040 %) should be maintained 18-25oC temperature should be maintained for proper decomposition.

Potential benefits of vermicomposting Vermicompost appears to be generally superior to conventionally produced compost in a number of important ways; Vermicompost is superior to most composts as an inoculant in the production of compost; Worms have a number of other possible uses on farms, including value as a high quality animal feed; Vermicomposting and vermiculture offer potential to organic farmers as sources of supplemental income.

Vermicompost has the following advantages over chemical fertilizers.

It restores microbial population which includes 32

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nitrogen fixers, phosphate solubilizers etc.

Provides major and micronutrients to the plants.

Improves soil texture and water holding capacity of the soil.

Provides good aeration to soil, thereby improving root growth and proliferation of beneficial soil microorganisms.

Decreases the use of pesticides for controlling plant pathogens.

At the same time, the beginning of vermicomposting process is a more complicated process than traditional composting: It can be quicker, but to make it so generally requires more labour; It requires more space because worms are surface feeders and won't operate in material more than a meter in depth; It is more vulnerable to environmental pressures, such as temperature, freezing conditions and drought; Perhaps most importantly, it requires more start-up resources, either in cash (to buy the worms) or in time and labour (to grow them).

Nutritive value of vermicompost The nutrients content in vermicompost vary depending on the waste materials that are being used for compost preparation. If the waste materials are heterogeneous

The common available nutrients in vermicompost is as follows

Organic carbon C/N ratio Nitrogen Phosphorous Potassium Sodium Calcium and Magnesium Copper Iron Zinc Sulphur

: : : : : : : : : : :

9.5 - 17.98% 11.64 0.5 - 1.50% 0.1 - 0.30% 0.15 - 0.56% 0.06 - 0.30% 22.67 to 47.60 meq/100g 2 - 9.50 mg kg-1 2 - 9.30 mg kg-1 5.70 - 11.50 mg kg-1 128 - 548 mg kg-1

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RESEARCH

one, there will be wide range of nutrients available in the compost. If the waste materials are homogenous one, there will be only certain nutrients are available. A fine worm cast is rich in N P K besides other nutrients.

Nutrients in vermicompost are in readily available form and are released within a month of application.

Doses The doses of vermicompost application depend upon the type of crop grown in the field/nursery. For fruit crops, it is applied in the tree basin.

It is added in the pot mixture for potted ornamental plants and for raising seedlings.

Vermicompost should be used as a component of integrated nutrient supply system.

For general field crops: Around 2-3 t ha -1 vermicompost is used by mixing with seed at the time of sowing or by row application when the seedlings are 12-15 cm in height. Normal irrigation is followed.

For fruit trees: The amount of vermicompost ranges from 5 to 10 kg per tree depending on the age of the plant. For efficient application, a ring (15-18 cm deep) is made around the plant. A thin layer of dry cow dung and bone meal is spread along with 2-5 kg of vermicompost and water is sprayed on the surface after covering with soil.

For vegetables: For raising seedlings to be transplanted, vermicompost at 1 t ha -1 is applied in the nursery bed.

This results in healthy and vigorous seedlings. But for JULY AUGUST 2016

transplants, vermicompost at the rate of 400-500 g per plant is applied initially at the time of planting and 45 days after planting (before irrigation).

For flowers: Vermicompost is applied at 750-1000 kg ha -1.

For vegetable and flower crops: vermicompost is applied around the base of the plant. It is then covered with soil and watered regularly.

Pests and Diseases of vermicompost Compost worms are not subject to diseases caused by micro-organisms, but they are subject to predation by certain animals and insects (red mites are the worst) and to a disease known as “sour crop” caused by environmental conditions.

Conclusion Earthworms serve as “nature's plowman” and form nature's gift to produce good humus, which is the most precious material to fulfill the nutritional needs of crops. Vermicompost can

be used for all crops viz., agricultural, horticultural, ornamental and vegetables at any stage of the crop. The utilization of vermicompost results in several benefits to farmers, industries, environment and overall national economy.

To farmers: Less reliance on purchased inputs of nutrients leading to lower cost of production Increased soil productivity through improved soil quality Better quantity and quality of crops For landless people provides additional source of income generation

To industries: Cost-effective pollution abatement technology To environment: Wastes create no pollution, as they become valuable raw materials for enhancing soil fertility To national economy: Boost to rural economy Savings in purchased inputs Less wasteland formation.

For more information please contact TNAU Information and Training Centre, Chennai, India.

Email :pksanandhi@gmail.com GULF AGRICULTURE

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POLISH AGRICULTURE

HIGH QUALITY PLANTER BAGS MARTEX速 DELIVERS ITS PRODUCTS TO MORE THAN 24 COUNTRIES IN EUROPE. LOOKING FOR DISTRIBUTORS IN GULF AND THE MIDDLE EAST

M

ARTEX速-Jerzy Marek Strenkowski, is a family owned company from Poland engaged in the production and supply of textile products for nurseries, including those can be effectively used in the temperate, dry or even hot climate.

The company offers different kinds of products including a series of containers under the common name of ARBO速. Also there are nursery and transportation bags, bags for general purpose and for the collection of small plastic items (plastic bottles, cans, AL), household waste utilization, and many others.

Under the brand of MARTEX速, the company offers mats for protection against weed, containers for ground and water perennials,

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GULF AGRICULTURE

JULY AUGUST 2016

POLISH AGRICULTURE

expanding tape for connecting of tree and its support, multicolour marking tape, protective material for draining pipes and trees located near the roads and streets, tunnels/ sleeves for ventilation and weights used in foil tunnels.

Additionally, the company offers the following range of products: jute textile (in bales and KARO type clothing), jute felt, knitted fabric/net for shading, bedding material for application directly on ground, geo-textile, foil and foam with thermo-insulative properties for plants and objects (in bales and variety of formats), capillary mats for tables, wrapping band for trees, stabilizers of ground in the slopy area.

Water saving jute mat, for

JULY AUGUST 2016

application in dry and hot climate, which effectively reduces water evaporation and its assimilation by weed; aluminum foil coated container which reflects sunlight, and thermo-

insulative inserts, for application inside bags, pots or directly on ground are also included in the product range.

MARTEXÂŽ delivers its products to more than 24 countries in Europe.

GULF AGRICULTURE

35

AQUACULTURE

NORWEGIAN EXPERTISE TO DEAL WITH MARINE FOULING

M

arine fouling is increasingly a major problem for fish farming companies. SteenHansen (Norway) has the products and expertise to help your company, your fish and your bottom line.

An industry growing in importance Aquaculture plays an increasingly important role in feeding a growing global population. As such, it is important to make sure this form of food production remains as sustainable as possible. To achieve this, large, open cages are mainly used to provide natural flow of sea water. A reliable supply of oxygen is essential for ensuring the production of good, healthy seafood. Steen-Hansen Aquaculture's products help guarantee that aquaculture

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GULF AGRICULTURE

remains an eco-friendly form of food production, providing healthy and vital fish.

Aquaculture: Preferred supplier for more than 30 years “Our fish farming products have been preferred by leading aquaculture companies all over the world for more than three decades. Operating methods and marine fouling differ significantly from company to company, both locally and globally. With our strong focus on the environment, fish health, fish growth and operating conditions, we are able to provide a wide range of quality products,” says a company spokesman.

“The ever-increasing focus on the environment and sustainable operations requires significant technological developments from the

aquaculture supplier industry.

With our decades of experience, expertise and strong R&D group, Steen-Hansen is a leading partner to help in the development of an optimal and eco-friendly seafood industry.”

Fishing: We know what it takes “For more than 30 years, we have been delivering products to the fishing industry that improve both use and performance of fishing gear.

Suppliers to the fishing industry are also required to protect the environment by developing products that allow for improved and more sustainable fishing and catches of seafood.”

“With our experience, expertise and close links to a leading supplier industry, SteenHansen is a natural partner for companies seeking to get the most out of their fishing gear.”

JULY AUGUST 2016

AQUACULTURE

DEVELOPERS OF FISH FARM SOLUTIONS

H

valpsund Net's (Denmark) is one of the largest manufacturers and developers of fish farm solutions.

The company provides total fish farm solutions and sub elements for all kinds of aquaculture.

“Hvalpsund net is Scandinavian quality at its best. Our many years of know-how and experience have made us one of the leading in equipment for aquaculture, fishing equipment, safety nets and sports nets,” says a company release.

There are a lot of good reasons, why professional fish farmers chose Hvalpsund Net. Here are three facts you cannot ignore.

Flexible gear Correct design in combination with materials such as pens made from high density polyethylene pipe with injection moulded stanchions and Dyneema® nets provides ultimate flexibility for any type of installation.

Due to the light weight properties that comes from choosing nets from Dyneema® - Hvalpsund solutions tackle the stress coming from waves and currents better than traditional solutions.

Weather proof Hvalpsund EXTREME HDPE rings fitted with Dyneema nets proved to be a winning cobination when hurricanes roared the coasts of Northern Europe in the past couple of years. Result: No

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damage - no loss of fish.

Dyneema® yields maximum strength at minimum weight - as the fiber is 10 times stronger than steel. A typical Dyneema net is 40% stronger than one in nylon. Dyneema® floats, is extremely durable and resists wear, moist, UV and chemicals..

Fully tested “Since Hvalpsund has a global presence - our gear has been tested under almost any type of environment from burning hot sun near the pole to roaring hurricanes in the near the poles.”

“This experience benefits all of our clients.

With some sites having ultra high UV exposure and drifting ice in others - we know that not two places are the same. So our clients don't just get a piece of equipment. They get a part of our year long experience.”

JULY AUGUST 2016

, MUSSAFAH BRANCH:P.O BOX 107219,ABU DHABI, U.A.E, TEL:00971 2 5545641,FAX:00971 2 5545642

EMAIL : aridland@emirates.net.ae, www.aridlanddevelopment.com

Cost per kg meat? Check!

Feed needs support to live up to the demand of modern animal production. CreAMINO® boosts natural creatine synthesis, reduces the need for arginine, and saves energy. To get performance up and costs down.

Simply Efficient™

animal-nutrition@evonik.com www.creamino.com