July-Aug 2021 edition

JULY

AUGUST

2021

Y O U R G AT E WAY T O T H E M I D D L E E A S T A G R I B U S I N E S S

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WIN celebrates its first ten years of success

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Solplast prevents the risk of high temperatures on the soil

A brand new system for duck and turkey egg transportation

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Improper disposal of poultry and livestock wastes

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Explore Dubai’s home-grown produce

THE WORLD’S ONLY PLANT-RESPONSIVE IRRIGATION SYSTEM

THE SMARTEST MOST WATER EFFICIENT IRRIGATION SYSTEM EVER MADE The patented RDI system uses organic chemistry to respond and interact with plant root signals, allowing each plant to self -regulate the release of water and nutrients from the billions of ‘smart micropores’ in the GrowStream™ tubing.

Uses 30-50% less water than subsurface drip No emitters to clog Reduces plant stress resulting in higher crop yields No timers, controllers or electronics required Plants thrive with less fertilizer- no excess runoff Works with poor quality water and non- arable land

USA OFFICE

6404 MANATEE AVE W SUITE N BRADENTON, FL 34209 USA +1 (941) 792-978 www.responsivedrip.com

UAE OFFICE

WH13, KLP FZ-13, KP-9, KIZAD, AL TAWEELAH, ABU DHABI, UAE +971 (2) 6666156 info@responsivedrip.com

©2021 RESPONSIVE DRIP IRRIGATION, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

AGI IS A GLOBAL LEADER IN DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING OF GRAIN STORAGE AND HANDLING EQUIPMENT. STORAGE | CONVEYORS | BUCKET ELEVATORS STRUCTURES | CLEANERS | DRYERS TEMPERATURE SENSING TO LEARN MORE, CONTACT

africasales@aggrowth.com +27 (0)71 633 5365

aggrowth.com | @AgGrowthIntl

Contents Editor M. Matt Associate Editor Jessie Jorge Graphic Design Elizabeth John Contributors Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas Neville J. Chandler Shakeeb Kolakadan Registered Office Matt Media Intl. Ltd. 12 Gateway Mews London N11 2UT United Kingdom US Office Matt Media (USA) LLC. 1713 E. Morgan Court Gilbert, Arizona 85295 Middle East Offices Matt Media LLC. Sharjah Media City United Arab Emirates Al Saad Adv. & Publishing LLC P O Box 25694, Sharjah United Arab Emirates

26 Cover Photo Courtesy: Root Pouch, USA

News Sommet Preview Planter Bags Biostimulants Greenhouse Cooling Pads Mulch Irrigation

04 20 22 24 26 28 29 30

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info@gulfagriculture.com www.gulfagriculture.com Gulf Agriculture is a publication from Matt Media Intl. Ltd. (UK) and 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 wholesalers of food and agri inputs.

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All rights reserved. The opinions and views expressed in the 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 readers particular circumstances. The publishers regret that they cannot accept liabilities on any error or emissions contained in this publication.

Printed and published by Matt Media© Intl. Ltd.(U.K.) 2021

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32

Agricultural Machinery

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Dairy Farming

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Eggs Cargo System

38

Manure Management

39

Aquaculture

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Dubai Update

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TWO PROFESSIONAL GROWERS TWO COMPLETELY DIFFERENT CROPS BOTH REQUIRING DIFFERENT GROWING METHODS

ROOT POUCH OFFERS DIFFERENT POTS SPECIFICALLY DEVELOPED FOR EACH SPECIFIC GROWING PRACTICE Interested in becoming a distributor or growing with Root Pouch?

Contact us: info@rootpouch.com | +1-503-439-0306 | www.rootpouch.com

News MINISTRY OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT LAUNCHES YOUTH FOOD SECURITY STATIONS The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) inaugurated the Youth Food Security Stations in collaboration with the National and Reserve Service Authority.

The multi-phased initiative aims to enable young people to become entrepreneurs in animal and crop agriculture, beekeeping, and aquaculture, and actively contribute to national food security.

His Excellency Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, made the announcement at a special ceremony organized by MOCCAE. The event drew the participation of Staff Pilot

Major General Sheikh Ahmed bin Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the National and Reserve Service Authority, Her Excellency Jameela Al Muhairi, Minister of State for Public Education, Her Excellency Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, His Excellency Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs, and His Excellency Saeed Al Nazari, Director General of the Federal Youth Authority.

As part of the scheme, MOCCAE will establish stateof-the-art integrated centers for modern agriculture across the country to develop farming skills among young people, and teach them to implement and manage modern farming systems to improve productivity. The program aims to build the

capacities of emerging businesses in the sustainable food production sector.

Implemented in collaboration with the National and Reserve Service Authority and Hamed Al Hamed, Emirati businessman and founder of Gracia Farms – the first hydroponic farm in the Middle East, the inaugural edition will involve the training of 50 Emirati reserve service recruits.

Furthermore, MOCCAE will partner with the Ministry of Economy and Ministry of State for Youth Affairs to encourage youth participation in the initiative and to connect graduates with financial institutions that will support them in launching their agricultural startups.

Developed in accordance with international standards, the three-stage program blends academic learning with hands-on training. Stage one

SAHARA INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITION IN SEPTEMBER 2021

The 33rd edition of Sahara, the International Agricultural Exhibition for Africa and The Middle East, is set between the 12th and the 15th of September 2021 at Egypt International Exhibition Center under the patronage of the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation.

The Exhibition witnesses the participation of major international organizations specialized in

agriculture, animal production and aquaculture from Africa, Europe, and Asia, with more than twenty thousand visitors annually.

Sahara exhibition is creating opportunities for professionals working in the agriculture business in Egypt to expanding their network and building up their business relationships.

The exhibition global organizer Informa Markets announced the

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implementation of “Informa AllSecure” approach during this year’s edition. This approach was adopted after the spread of COVID19 to ensure the highest standards of health and safety during the exhibition.

Sahara is offering all agriculture enthusiasts a set of digital solutions and opportunities including webinars, news, and market trends reports, in order to extend their reach beyond the 4-day exhibition to learn more about their customers’ behavior, enhance their business strategies, and generate new sources of revenue.

If you are interested to learn more about Sahara, please visit the following website www.saharaexpo.com

July-August 2021

News focuses on the fundamentals of agricultural business management, modern farm design, sustainable agricultural production, agricultural innovation, and marketing. Participants will also explore the ways local production can support food security and meet the needs of the population at a time of an emergency.

In stage two, trainees will apply the theories they learned in stage one with a focus on the design and installation of farming systems, management of protected and open-field agriculture systems, livestock and poultry breeding, aquaculture, feed processing, and beekeeping and honey production. In addition, the program will introduce them to the basics of modern farm management, such as

feasibility studies, budgets, accounting, asset management, and procurement.

The final stage comprises hands-on training on processes that take place post-harvest until the products reach the retail outlets, such as marketing, contract negotiation, and sales.

Every trainee must complete a graduation project that involves preparing a proposal for an agricultural business, project, or technology that is assessed by the trainers, who will provide their recommendations so that it can be submitted to financial institutions.

WORLD’S 1ST NANO UREA INTRODUCED

BY IFFCO IN INDIA FOR THE FARMERS ACROSS THE WORLD World’s 1st Nano Urea Liquid

is introduced for the farmers across the world by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO). This is an inspiration taken from the call of the Prime Minister of India for reducing the use of Urea.

The Nano Urea Liquid is indigenously developed after many years of dedicated and sincere research of IFFCO’s Scientists and Engineers through a proprietary technology developed at Nano Biotechnology Research Centre, Kalol. IFFCO Nano Urea Liquid increases crop production with improved nutritional quality. It will also give a huge positive impact on the quality of underground water, significant reduction in the global warming with an impact on climate change and sustainable development.

Translation of Nano Urea

FRESH CLASS

VEGETABLES ‫ﻣﻭﻟﺔ ﺑﺩﻋﻡ‬ ّ ‫ﺣﻣﻠﺔ ﺗﺭﻭﻳﺞ ﺩﻋﺎﺋﻳﺔ ُﻣ‬ .‫ُﻣﻘﺩّﻡ ﻣﻥ ﺍﻹﺗﺣﺎﺩ ﺍﻷﻭﺭﻭﺑﻲ‬

July-August 2021

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

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News Liquid for farmers use will boost balanced nutrition program by reducing the excess use of Urea application in the soil. The excess urea causes an environmental pollution, harm soil health, and making plant more susceptible for disease & insect infestation, delayed maturity of the crop & production loss. Nano Urea Liquid makes the crops stronger, healthy and protect them from lodging effect.

A 500 ml bottle of IFFCO Nano Urea Liquid will replace at least one bag of conventional Urea.

The bottle can significantly bring

down the cost of logistics and warehousing. It contains 40,000 ppm of Nitrogen in 500 ml bottle which is equivalent to the impact of nitrogen nutrient provided by one bag of conventional Urea.

IFFCO Nano Urea Liquid is now included in Fertiliser Control Order (FCO, 1985) on the basis of multi- location and multi-crop trials undertaken under National Agriculture Research System (NARS) at 20 ICAR research institutes, State Agriculture Universities and KVKs on 43 crops. To test its efficacy around 11,000 farmer field

trials were undertaken. During the trials conducted on 94 crops, an average 8% yield increase was witnessed.

THE 39TH EDITION OF THE SAUDI AGRICULTURE INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXHIBITION HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED The National Health authorities have decided to continue to use the RICEC venue as a Vaccination Facility until the end of 2021.

The organizers complied

DELAVAL INTRODUCE NEW PARALLEL PARLOUR SYSTEM P100 The DeLaval P100 Parlour has been specifically designed with family farms and grassland customers in mind. The new DeLaval Parlour P100 delivers a smoother milking process using fewer resources and enabling the right automation to be used for every single farm.

With the DeLaval P100 sequential bailing system cows stand at 90 degrees to the operator. Whether you have a highly advanced management system like DelPro connected or a standalone system the P100 is compatible with both.

The DeLaval P100 is the result after

many years of developing, testing and input from our customers with a focus on work efficiency, animal welfare and farm profitability.

The features of the DeLaval P100 fits perfectly into the philosophy of creating a simple but highly effective milking system. The DeLaval P100 parlour is easy to install, and thanks to conventional exit it fits easily into existing buildings as retrofit installation. The features of the P100 perfectly complements our range of products on offer to our customers.

DeLaval EasyMilk™ Whether you're looking for a swing-over MidiLine or a double equipped low-line parlour, the P100 is optimized for ease of operation and milker comfort with its wide alley, comfortable milking position, specially designed butt pan or straight rump rail gives high visibility from the pit. Compatible

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with state-of-the-art DeLaval Evanza™ clusters, system connected InParlour Feeding and advanced DeLaval milk extraction technology your P100 will extract more milk, in less time whilst unlocking more efficient, less stressful routines for milkers.

DeLaval EasyFit™ DeLaval P100 parlours are modular and able to fit into the footprint of your existing barn or new build.

With 1x3 to 2x40 options, designing a P100 to fit your space is easy.

Speed up your milking time and make life easy in your brand new or retrofitted milking environment.

DeLaval EasyFlow™ Featuring a wide entry and double exit, cows move smoothly through the P100, and with its adjustable breastrail and sequence gates clearly defining the space for each cow, parlour loading is seamless, so your cows stay comfortable and relaxed.

The DeLaval P100 is the right choice for farmers who would like to milk the easy way.

July-August 2021

News with the authorities’ directives and booked suitable 2022 dates for their international events, in time periods beyond the expected Covid Mitigation period and will allow the clients peace of mind regarding the Pandemic, within the Kingdom and overseas, to be a positive business setting where our international and local business leaders can travel, meet, and conduct safe comfortable business.

The 39th Edition of the Saudi Agriculture International Trade Exhibition has been rescheduled to be held in the fall of 2022, from 17-20 October 2022.

KLASMANNDEILMANN EXPANDS IN AUSTRALIA The Klasmann-Deilmann Group is continuing its growth course at international level.

With effect from July 31, 2021,

the Germany based market leader in growing media is taking over Australian Growing Solutions Pty Ltd (AGS). AGS is the largest and most renowned supplier of raw materials and substrates to the Australian commercial horticulture market. Both companies are linked by a long-standing partnership.

With this transaction Klasmann-Deilmann intends to increase its product range

DEVENISH LAUNCHES AGRINEWAL, A SUSTAINABLE FARMING INITIATIVE Agri-technology company Devenish, in collaboration with global professional services firm Accenture, has launched a groundbreaking sustainable farming initiative which will help decarbonise the global agriculture sector by supporting farmers to continue to produce nutritious meat and milk while dramatically improving their carbon balance.

By accurately measuring on-farm carbon emissions and, uniquely, carbon sequestration, it is estimated Agrinewal will enable over five million tons of carbon to be sequestered by 2030. This will create new value for farmers across the island of Ireland, and substantially accelerate the achievement of climate goals while also improving biodiversity, water quality and overall farm resilience.

Using the latest cloud-based technology, it provides a Carbon Balance Sheet and identifies actions which will help the wider agricultural sector reach net zero carbon emissions and beyond, boosting the environmental credentials for producers, processors and at every point on the food chain.

Enterprise Ireland has provided €400,000 of funding for Agrinewal

and was launched at Devenish's

opens up the possibility of new

Lands at Dowth, County Meath, a

income streams for farmers from

partner in the Teagasc Signpost

Carbon Farming and Data Analytics.

Farm Programme.

The output of 21 years of research

It allows farmers to maximise the potential of their land in a

and science by Devenish and backed

sustainable fashion and, because

by the latest artificial intelligence and

each farm will be on the road to

cloud technology expertise from

achieving net zero and beyond, it

Accenture, the system uses precise

will change the narrative around the

monitoring and regenerative

agriculture sector from a climate

agriculture practices, such as soil

problem to a climate solution.

health, biodiversity and carbon

Richard Kennedy, Chief Executive of

sequestration and focuses on the

Devenish, said: "Agrinewal's purpose

renewal of resources, rather than

is to heal the planet and create value

depletion.

for farmers, processors, consumer

Agrinewal improves on-farm

brands and governments. Our vision

financial performance, soil health,

is to enable carbon neutral farming

animal welfare and water quality

on a global scale while at the same

while also reducing harmful

time empowering farmers to increase

emissions and increasing

revenues from their work to provide

biodiversity. Additionally, it also

healthy, nutritious food.

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July-August 2021

www.europeantreasures.eu

The European Union supports campaigns that promote high quality agricultural products.

News of high-quality raw materials and growing media, especially based on renewable raw materials.

“The acquisition fits perfectly into our portfolio,” says Moritz Böcking, Managing Director of the Klasmann-Deilmann Group.

“With AGS we are taking another big step into the Australian market, and we are gaining very valuable know-how in composting pine-bark.” KlasmannDeilmann aims to increase the share of renewable raw materials in its Group-wide sales mix to 30% by 2025.

AGS had also recently commissioned a wood fibre

plant that uses technology developed by KlasmannDeilmann.

“The global demand for growing media constantly increases – due to the rising population and changing nutrition habits. For many decades we have been serving our customers from our substrate manufacturing sites in Europe. Now, we want to take the next step and add a partner-production network to our subsidiaries and in that way use more locally available raw materials,” says Böcking.

Klasmann-Deilmann already partners with substrate producers in Europe and in Asia.

AFTER INTERNATIONAL MERGER, GARRA INTERNATIONAL AIMS AT QUINTUPLING ITS REVENUES IN TEN YEARS Two years after the merger that brought together Brazilian KIT and New Zealander Garra, the joint venture presents itself to the market fully integrated, now under the brand Garra International. And with an ambitious plan: to fivefold its revenues as an animal protein trading company in ten years, from USD 200 million to USD 1 billion. The company’s current numbers are already impressive. The new Garra

MATTHIOLA TRIALS FROM EVANTHIA SHOW A BREEDING BREAKTHROUGH An ocean of soft tones, pretty pastels and intense colours, and the sweetest scent only Matthiola can offer. The Matthiola Trials of Evanthia are blooming. At the greenhouse of G. van den Beukel in the Westland area of the Netherlands, Evanthia presents its complete range of Matthiola incana. All commercial varieties side-by-side, exciting experimentals, and some very interesting developments for anyone who works with this

stunning stock.

Peter van Noort (Manager Genetics), Leo Boers and George van Klink (both Crop Advisors) from Evanthia accompany guests through the extensive trials. One of its highlights: the relatively new series Matthiola Milla. From early spring until midsummer, Milla easily produces sufficient stem length compared to other varieties in the market. Milla has a very uniform crop, strong stems and excellent flower quality. The range is expanded with specialty colours like Salmon, Aubergine and Light Pink.

Most interesting

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of Evanthia’s Matthiola trial is for sure a new development that could be the solution of a challenge breeders, young plant producers and growers of Matthiola face.

Selection of double-flowered plants at the seedling stage is one of the main purposes of the stock breeding program. The breeders of Evanthia managed to develop a robust range of Matthiolas with woodier stems that is easy to select for doubleness after a cold treatment, resulting in an excellent series with 100% double flowers.

Peter van Noort (Manager Genetics): “With this new series we truly combine the best of both worlds: the sturdy and long-lasting features of Japanese stock and the selectability of European stock.” This promising new series of Evanthia is now in full production. Next season the breeding company will start up pre-commercial trials in close cooperation with young plant producers and growers.

July-August 2021

News trades 120 thousand tons of poultry, beef and lamb every year – selling to approximately 500 customers in more than 60 markets. And, to meet such demand, it has operations in ten countries, including Brazil, United States, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand.

“We united a fully innovative company, with exponential growth, as KIT was, with all the tradition of quality and services that Garra had. Now, together, we can offer more services, in more countries, as well as other product options to our current customers and those to come”, says Frederico Kaefer, CEO of the company.

To achieve its growth target in the next decade, Garra

International counts on a favorable global scenario. In 2021, the production of animal protein is expected to reach 346 million tons, the highest number in history, according to data from FAO – the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. By 2050, the consumption of these products should grow by 73% when compared to 2011.

This expansion is not only the result of population growth, but also an increase in income in developing countries. “China and India, for example, still have a low per capita consumption of meat.

But these numbers have been expanding as their purchasing power increases, accompanied by a culture change in these countries”, says Kaefer.

The global production, however, does not grow at the same rate, generating opportunities for wellpositioned companies. “It is a market with very high demand and many players. In a scenario like this, buyers are seeking relationships of trust, relevant connections, which allow them to find complete solutions in a single place. And today, we are ready to face this new moment”, says Kaefer.

Garra acts as a facilitator on both ends of the business, for buyers (distributors and food processors) and suppliers. And it does that by narrowing bridges and shortening distances – its offices around the globe provide great proximity to customers and agility in solving problems.

Substrates with highspeed for your plant growth

Stender Agency for Arabic countries Mohamed Adel Zaraa Tel.: +39 335 716 15 37 Mail.: mozaraa@gmail.com www.stender.de

July-August 2021

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News NUTRIEN INCREASING POTASH PRODUCTION IN RESPONSE TO STRONG GLOBAL DEMAND Nutrien Ltd announced that it expects to increase potash production by approximately half a million tonnes in the second half of 2021 compared to earlier expectations, in response to tightening global potash market conditions.

Nutrien has a flexible network of six world-class potash mines with competitively positioned, available capacity that it can utilize to help supply global demand.

“We are responding to

strong market fundamentals to ensure our customers have the crop inputs they need to feed a growing population. Our network of flexible production and extensive logistics is designed to provide reliable supply and we have a unique ability to be agile and respond to changing market conditions.

Our potash asset portfolio is optimally positioned to meet customer needs and drive shareholder value,” commented Ken Seitz, Nutrien’s Executive Vice President and CEO of Potash.

Domestic and offshore potash sales volumes are currently fully committed through September, based on our original production profile

for 2021. Nutrien will be actively hiring additional employees and adapting its resources to help increase production across most of its potash mines, ramping up its Vanscoy facility in particular, and will ensure the highest safety standards are maintained in the process.

Nutrien expects these actions to result in upward revisions to potash-related guidance for the second half of 2021 from both a volume and EBITDA perspective, which will be addressed in secondquarter 2021 results. Nutrien continues to actively monitor the market and evaluate other potential options to further increase production if demand

FANTURA TUNNEL INLET PREVENTS COLD AIR DROP WITH TUNNEL VENTILATION The typical feature of a tunnel ventilation system is the fans installed in the rear gable of a house and an air inlet at the front of the house. This creates the so-called tunnel effect where air flows over the animals at high speed and creates a cooling breeze.

With a wind speed of 1.5 m/second - similar to a sea breeze - that wind chill effect can already cause the actual temperature in the house of 34 degrees Celsius to feel like 24 degrees and help prevent heat stress. With the Fantura tunnel inlet you create a perfectly controllable tunnel ventilation system.

What makes the Fantura tunnel inlet unique is the special way it opens. The panels slide smoothly from top to bottom and create a gradual increase in the flow of ventilation flow in the house.

The gradual opening action in combination with the inlet's unique shape, also make the tunnel inlet

ideal for minimum ventilation. A jet stream bundles the incoming air for a better throw that directs the air straight to the ridge of the building.

This effect is a good way of cutting costs as there is no need to install additional inlets above the tunnel inlet.

With a capacity of no less than 38,000 m3, the Fantura tunnel inlet delivers a top performance. The inlet is airtight and well insulated and made of materials that are perfectly resistant to weather influences and the aggressive substances in the air inside the house. Users can rely on years of

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trouble-free operation.

A Fantura inlet system is a complete package with actuator and an intelligent control computer.

Just one actuator is needed to accurately control the system.

The new tunnel inlet is part of the series of Fantura air inlet systems which all feature the special patented inlet design. Fantura eliminates a cold drop on the animals. The manure remains dry and prevents leg problems. Your animals stay healthy and perform better. In addition, the consistent growth conditions promote uniformity.

July-August 2021

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 warrants it and may provide additional information in this regard at a later date.

FEED ADDITIVES FOR BIO SECURITY AND GUT HEALTH Berg + Schmidt Animal Nutrition, experts in functional lipids, have developed the LipoVital product range consisting of easily combined nutritional feed additives proven to not only support gut health and the immune system of livestock animals, but also reduce the level of pathogens. As the components are based on various monoglycerides, mediumchain fatty acids and mediumchain triglycerides, this is an entirely natural means of bio

security. Available in liquid and powder form, the feed additives contribute to efficient farm management, as well as animal welfare and sustainable handling of livestock breeding.

A trial with broilers at the University of Rostock confirmed the excellent effect of LipoVital on Clostridium perfringens. Both the intestinal flora and the performance parameters were positively influenced. Studies at the Pipestone Applied Research Institute and the Cornell University Animal Health Center also demonstrated the high antiviral activity of LipoVital monoglycerides fighting Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDv) and Porcine Reproductive and

Respiratory Syndrome virus (PRRSv). A study with Penaeus vannamei shrimp, conducted at Bangkok's Kasetsart University, confirmed that LipoVital Protect Aqua, a special combination for aquacultures, could improve growth, survival, immune response and intestinal bacteria composition in shrimp. Furthermore, LipoVital also reduced the number of Vibrio spp.

Christian Cordts, Product Manager Feed Additives at Berg + Schmidt, says: "Today's task for successful livestock management is to increase efficiency while at the same time safeguarding consumers, animals and the environment.

With our toolbox of natural and proven functional lipids,

BASELINE IS A PIONEER IN NEW EPA WATERSENSE PROGRAM

HydroPoint®, the market and technology leader in smart water management, announced that its Baseline™ brand has earned the EPA WaterSense label in the new category, Soil Moisture-Based Irrigation Controller, becoming the first irrigation controller manufacturer to achieve the distinction of this certification.

To attain the EPA WaterSense label, the input from soil-moisture sensors must be able to consistently prevent or allow irrigation at a preset threshold.

Manufacturers that produce soil-

moisture based irrigation controllers meeting EPA’s efficiency and performance criteria can earn the WaterSense label. Baseline moisture sensors passed 100% of all moisture sensor tests, including all mandatory and supplemental capability requirements.

“We are excited to be the first manufacturer to earn this certification,” said Peter Carlson, Chief Technology Officer at HydroPoint. “After being the first organization to pass the Irrigation Association’s Smart Water Application Technologies (SWAT) protocol with a 100% perfect score back in 2006, HydroPoint continues to stay ahead of the curve with technology and innovation in the irrigation industry.”

Baseline has a long and successful history of working with the EPA to push the standards higher for green irrigation practices. Their soil moisture

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sensors use Time Domain Transmissometry (TDT) technology to measure volumetric changes to within 0.01% in the soil profile, and were the first sensor technology ever certified by the EPA. Baseline is currently the only irrigation controller manufacturer to be EPA certified for both soil moisture sensing automation and weatherbased (ET) automation.

Customers rely on Baseline for both hardware and data capabilities, utilizing the best technology to capture real-time data for even the most complex irrigation site.

HydroPoint® is the proven leader in smart water management solutions. Its WeatherTRAK®, Baseline™, and WaterCompass® product lines help companies maximize water savings, reduce operating costs, minimize business risks, and achieve sustainability goals.

July-August 2021

VTX-S 30 T Parallel disc harrow with independent discs for mixing the soil

OPEN FIELD

GREENHOUSE Specialists from over 40 years in innovative equipment for minimum tillage and conservation agriculture, from over 10 years also specialists in seeding

OVER since 1976

ESQ CH

Medium-heavy grubber

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

SEAC COMBI Combined equipment for the double layer working: deep tillage and surface crumbling

News we can help optimize biosecurity and through prophylaxis minimize the spread of diseases."

MERISTEM LAUNCHES EXCAVATOR TO HELP HIGH-YIELD FARMERS BREAK DOWN RESIDUE EXCAVATOR™, a new biological designed to break down tough crop residue and clear the way for today’s high-speed planters, was announced by Meristem Crop Performance. A unique collection of bacteria and amino acids, EXCAVATOR stimulates natural biological activity that speeds residue decay and releases nutrients faster.

“EXCAVATOR springs from our effort to test, refine and make available new biologicals at a price point that can improve every farmer’s ROI (return on investment),” says Mitch Eviston, founder and CEO of Meristem. “Our alliance with Larry Fiene and Planet

Earth Agronomy is already paying out with more ways to serve farmers and break down barriers to in-field application of this beneficial technology.”

EXCAVATOR is geared to solving consequences of better genetics, faster planters, and higher yields. Since 1991, average corn yields in America have increased from 108.6 bushel per acre (BPA) in 1991 to 172 BPA in 2020 according to USDA. To grow and fill out heavier ears, corn stalks got stronger. To gain yield, plant populations went up, creating more residue. Meanwhile, planter speeds have doubled in recent years and 10-mph is now common. All these issues converge into a big challenge for high-yield growers: How do I get the crop in the ground quickly, while avoiding skips and gaining the consistent stand crucial to high yields?

“Our planting system is designed to get the crop planted inside of six days,” says Indiana grower Craig Armstrong. “Anything that

helps us move faster and still get even germination is probably worth it.” He plans on using more EXCAVATOR this year after seeing good early results in his test plots.

“The big issue with crop residue is that the planter will come through and the coulter will be unable to cut the trash,” explains Fiene, field agronomist and founder/CEO of Planet Earth Agronomy. “Instead, it will bend into the soil. As a result, some seeds will get pinned in folded trash and they won’t germinate, or worse, they will germinate late and end up being weeds.”

Fiene says the blend of six proprietary microbes in EXCAVATOR™ stimulate and fortify biological activity that will also release field-available nutrients from crop residue faster. Initial data indicates increases of up to 30-40 lbs N, 5-10 lbs P and 35-40 lb K in the crop following EXCAVATOR™ application. On average, Fiene says he’s seeing a yield advantage of 7.5 bushel per acre in his research with

JIFFY LAUNCHES FLEXISTART Flexistart is the latest addition to Jiffy’s range of specialized growing media. It’s an enriched substrate that transforms from a loose fill mix into a stabilized plug by adding water. Flexistart offers proven performance in material, plug, and crop handling, with results that optimize labor efficiencies. Its flexibility is unmatched: it works with most flat filling equipment, tray size, seeding or sticking method, and transplanting machinery.

Flexistart is fully compatible with both cuttings and seeds. It’s suitable for a wide range of indoor grown crops, including vegetables and

ornamental plants.

Jiffy Flexistart is compatible with all loose fill and transplanting machines.

Flexistart is suitable for any tray and cell configuration and provides efficient in-line changeover. This flexibility enables just-in-time production: No need to build an advanced inventory of filled trays.

Flexistart offers a fully enforced dibble structure, regardless of tray and cell configuration. This gives the grower centered seed placement and complete contact for unrooted cuttings – every time.

Flexistart consistently

16 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

outperformed the control during trials in root development, plant uniformity, and flower count.

Whether you are grading, transplanting, or shipping young plant material, Flexistart minimizes soil loss and maintains plug integrity throughout.

July-August 2021

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News EXCAVATOR on corn. “And I would attribute that to the more uniform germination, consistent stand and improved nutrient availability.”

EMERGE™ PROVIDES A SUSTAINABLE, PLANT-BASED PROTEIN INGREDIENT FOR PET AND AQUACULTURE FEED Scoular, a 128-year-old company based in Omaha, Nebraska creates safe and reliable supply chain solutions for end-users and suppliers of grain, feed ingredients, and food ingredients announced the name for its new sustainable and innovative

barley-based protein source for aquaculture and pet food: Emerge™. Emerge, both traceable and non-GMO, is the only barley-based protein for feed customers.

“As the demand for clean-label protein grows, both the aquaculture and pet food industries are seeking alternative and sustainable plant-based protein sources,” said Scoular manager JC Olson. “Emerge is a high-quality ingredient to meet this demand for the feed ingredient supply chain.”

Barley, an ancient grain, is sustainable because it contributes to water conservation systems and is grown in areas where it does not contribute to deforestation

of rainforest ecosystems. In aquaculture, Emerge is highly digestible, helping to reduce phosphate discharge and water pollution.

For pet food, Emerge delivers a neutral flavor and natural color. In dog feeding trials measuring palatability, it was equal or superior to both animal and vegetable protein sources.

Olson said Emerge is created through a patented process that concentrates the protein naturally found in whole barley kernels, creating a nutrientdense product. Scoular expects to begin producing Emerge in September after completing construction on its manufacturing facility in Jerome, Idaho.

SAUDI-BASED SUSTAINABLE AGTECH FIRM RED SEA FARMS, A SALT-WATER GROWING SPECIALIST, RECEIVES $10M INVESTMENT Red Sea Farms, a Saudi Arabian AgTech business whose one-of-akind technology enables the commercial farming of produce using primarily salt water, received a $10 million venture capital investment from a group of leading Saudi and UAE investors.

The investment in Red Sea Farms, which is based at King Abdullah University for Science & Technology (KAUST) 60 miles north of Jeddah, is one of the region’s largest AgTech investments to date.

The consortium reflects growing investor interest in the Gulf in sustainable farming solutions that can combat pandemics and global supply chain disruptions.

The funding is being led by a group of Saudi and UAE investors including the Aramco entrepreneurship arm Wa’ed, the non-profit foundation Future Investment Initiative Institute, KAUST and Global Ventures, a UAE venture capital group. The funding is one of the first AgTech investment

18 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

for many of the participants.

Red Sea Farms was established in 2018 with a vision to reduce food insecurity, carbon and fresh water use in the global and Gulf food sectors. The company’s unique, end-to-end growing system primarily uses salt water, cutting fresh-water consumption by 85 to 90 percent. Through a patented system of new, more efficient solar and growth monitoring technologies, salt water replaces fresh water typically used to cool greenhouses and irrigate crops.

Red Sea Farms’ growing systems can be quickly and easily scaled in climates such as the Middle East, where conventional farming methods are not possible or costeffective. The company is initially using its technology to grow and sell tomatoes in Saudi Arabia, but ultimately plans to sell entire turnkey growing systems to buyers around the world.

July-August 2021

NOV

2021

7-9

DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

THE YEAR’S MOST INFLUENTIAL EVENT FOR GLOBAL F&B MANUFACTURING

EXHIBIT NOW gulfoodmanufacturing.com gfm@dwtc.com

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Sommet Preview

SOMMET DE L’ELEVAGE 2021: WORLD LIVESTOCK BREEDING SHOWCASE 5 > 8 OCTOBER, CLERMONT-FERRAND, FRANCE

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esolutely turned towards the future, the SOMMET DE L’ELEVAGE international livestock trade show is placing its 2021 edition under the sign of economic relaunch. For its 30th edition, the SOMMET offers itself a passage to 4 opening days, a new exhibition hall of 10,000 m² and is now available in digital version with an app and new web services dedicated to both exhibitors and visitors.

2021 is therefore another important step in the development of the show with the aim of crossing the threshold of 100,000 visitors and 1,500 exhibitors from 35 countries.

A new exhibition hall With a total area of 10,000 m² and two conference rooms, the new ultra-modern and bright exhibition hall will accommodate more exhibitors

20 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

in better conditions and develop new sectors (renewable energies, transformation of agricultural products on the farm…).

The SOMMET is available in digital The SOMMET digital version is the opportunity for exhibitors to promote their products to the SOMMET DE L'ELEVAGE community throughout the year thanks to a dedicated mobile app and new web services (marketplace, webinars, B2B online meeting…).

Aubrac and Simmental breeds in national competition SOMMET 2021 will once again bring together the best of French and European livestock with the presence of more than 2,000 animals representing nearly 70 breeds of cattle, sheep and horses.

On the beef side, the Aubrac breed will be in the spotlight with a major national competition bringing together the 400 best specimens of the breed. As for dairy cattle, the Simmental breed will inaugurate the new dairy hall (hall 4) with around a hundred cows in national competition as well.

VIP welcome for international visitors As every year, the thousands of foreign visitors present will benefit from a privileged welcome with a free entry to the show, a special livestock gala evening, an access to the International Business Club and its many services (interpreters, etc.) as well as a program of 25 visits to farms and other agro-industrial sites.

Unique in the world!

More information and registration for free entry on www.sommet-elevage.fr

July-August 2021

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Planter Bags

ROOT POUCH: THE LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF FABRIC PLANTING BAGS

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oot Pouch is a fabric grow bag planting pot created and designed

by Horticulturists.

Unlike plastic pots that were designed to simply hold dirt, Root Pouch has perfected five distinctly different fabrics, each offering specific horticultural qualities that enhance the growth of the roots.

Some of their fabrics are

made of a natural fiber blend for indoor controlled growing environments, while others are made of 100% synthetic blends for durability and growing outdoors in the elements.

Unlike plastic or woven plastic textiles that offer no horticultural benefits, Root Pouch fabrics provide thermal protection, moisture retention,

and protection against the harshest environmental conditions.

Root Pouch manufactures all their own fabrics creating a weave that offers breathability and oxygen exchange. This exclusive weave also root prunes while preventing roots from circling, creating a dense fibrous root structure.

Some of their bags were designed with the cooperation and help of one of the largest growers in the world, J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. Wholesale Nursery in the United States.

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July-August 2021

Planter Bags

Root Pouch products are made 100% from recycled plastic water bottles and natural fibers.

Today, the most significant difference in Root Pouch versus all other bags on the market is the distinctive difference in their fabrics. The different fabrics they manufacture are not simply different colors or thicknesses but functionality.

Each of their fabrics has its own weave, density, and natural fiber blends of different percentages for particular crops and growing conditions.

Now the largest manufacturer

July-August 2021

of fabric planting bags. Last year Root Pouch consumed over 1200 metric tons of plastic water bottles, all of which did not end up in a landfill.

Root Pouch boasts the best planting containers for your specific growing practices: Horticulture, Agriculture, Hydroponics, and even Aquaponics.

Other fabric bags may look like Root Pouch none perform like Root Pouch.

For more information, visit www.rootpouch.com

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

23

Biostimulants

WIN CELEBRATES ITS FIRST TEN YEARS OF SUCCESS Approaching the 10th anniversary of the project, Biolchim takes stock of the road travelled to date

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IN is an international platform of collaboration funded in January 2012 to boost innovation in solutions for plant nutrition. WIN has the goal to facilitate knowledge transfer from academic research to industry and reduce the time to market of new biostimulants.Through this approach, Biolchim has developed and optimized the most successful biostimulants in its range that are marketed worldwide.

24 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

While preparing to celebrate its first 10 years, Biolchim is taking stock of the results achieved and setting the future goals.

As Leonardo Valenti, CEO of the Biolchim Group, stated: In the past 10 years we have invested a huge amount of resources to expanding and organizing WIN. Actually, it can no longer be described as a project.

Over time, WIN turned into a real organization for research and innovation that allows us

to successfully develop biostimulants and special fertilizers in a very short time.

Even though its procedures are scientifically rigorous and systematic, WIN retains the strong practical and concrete guidance which characterizes our Company. In Biolchim, we wear the lab coat with the rubber boots, as we innovate with the focus on supporting the farmers and meeting together the challenges of competitiveness and sustainable development.

Internal resources, external collaborations, and knowledge are the foundations of WIN. From 2012 to date, Biolchim‘s

July-August 2021

Biostimulants quality control and product formulation, several pilot plants to reproduce industrial processes on a small scale, and a trial station with glasshouses and growth chambers.

The internal capability to innovate is multiplied exponentially by the WIN collaboration network, which presently consists of about 100 high-profile partners including universities, research centres, laboratories, and private test facilities.

In Biolchim, product development is a long and complex process which takes place entirely in the framework of the WIN network. Selection of raw materials and validation of products are the key steps to final success.

In the words of Antonio Di Nardo, R&D Director of the Biolchim Group: Raw materials are screened by an array of in-vitro bioassays on model systems. They have been

Research & Development has grown dramatically to become a business unit which takes advantage of 16 highly trained scientists and a Research Centre equipped with 3 chemical labs for

July-August 2021

developed in-house or in cooperation with scientific partners which collaborate with us on a regular basis.

Bioassays fit the screening stage of product development as they are simple, fast, and

standardized, allowing the analysis of a very large number of samples in a short time. Obviously, their results must be validated on crops and field testing is the second key point of product development. Trials are carried out on a massive scale in many crops and countries, in order to collect as much information as possible on how the products work in different soil and growing conditions.

Field testing on a large scale is the baseline for selecting the most effective biostimulants and special fertilizers, placing them correctly on each and every market, and providing farmers with customized guidelines on how to get the most out of them.

Even after the market launch, Biolchim does not stop field testing its products and unravelling their mode of action, also through the so-called omics plattforms.

They are very powerful analysis tools which allow to collect detailed information on how biostimulants impact plant physiology and metabolism, all of which are very valuable for product exploitation and registration.

Since the WIN project started, more than 500 innovative raw materials have been evaluated. Roughly, 20 of these are currently included in Biolchim’s formulations while 50 are under study. The first 10 years of WIN have led to very positive results. Through WIN, Biolchim has developed or optimized it most successful biostimulants such as FOLICIST®, NOV@®, BLUPRINS®.

For more information, visit www.biolchim.com

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

25

Greenhouse autonomous greenhouse is on its way, enabling growers to focus on the higher-level decisions.

This is Ridder’s vision for the future of horticulture, says Joep van den Bosch, Chief Innovation Officer (CIO). ‘Helping you to grow your way’ is Ridder’s brand promise, and that really means something. We offer them products like screen fabrics and water units. But in the future, our services will focus increasingly on ‘growing as a service’. That means offering a comprehensive package of products and services to lighten the workload in the greenhouse.’

‘It will mean that we provide technology and smart solutions to resolve key issues around limited knowledge and the scarcity of labour. We hope that this will make an important contribution to achieving the autonomous greenhouse.’

FOUR TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE AUTONOMOUS GREENHOUSE

S

mart technology is becoming increasingly important in horticulture.

So important, in fact, that Ridder predicts that in ten

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years’ time smart technology and systems will be doing most of the work inside the greenhouse. The age of the

Using data in a smarter way The autonomous greenhouse will not just happen of its own accord, of course. Joep predicts that four key technologies will be needed in order for greenhouses to become fully autonomous. ‘The first essential technology is data analytics and cloud management. Data from the greenhouse – such as data on production and climate conditions – needs to be recorded securely and made available. This is crucial so that we can automate other processes in the greenhouse.

The HortOS data platform, with its options for collecting data and sending feedback directly to the climate computer, has an important role to play in this.’

In addition, Joep predicts that visual technology – or ‘growers eyes’ – will also be

July-August 2021

Greenhouse

Joep van den Bosch, Chief Innovation Officer (CIO)

needed. ‘At the moment, growers need to be physically present in order to assess their crops properly and make the right decisions – decisions about climate strategy, for instance. But this could also be done automatically using camera systems. These will track the growth and progress of the plants.’

High level of knowledge Joep realizes that these developments will be far from simple to achieve. ‘There are certain barriers that we’ll need to break through.

Growers have a huge amount of knowledge. It won’t be easy to replicate that with cameras and smart programs.’

The third technology is artificial intelligence. ‘That actually brings together the first two technologies. It means analysing the collected data and using it to make decisions and come up with solutions. The connected systems will communicate with each other using smart algorithms.’

Using AI, the systems will be able to achieve the best possible climate inside the greenhouse completely independently. They will be able to decide exactly when the temperature needs to go up a notch, or when extra ventilation is required.

July-August 2021

Robotization The fourth and final technology that Joep identifies is greenhouse robotics. ‘A lot of the physical activities in the greenhouse, like picking and packaging, will be automated. We already have a lot of basic technology for this, but it’s not all widely used in horticulture yet.’ There’s a lot we need to do before growers can really start growing autonomously.

‘Companies in the sector will have to work more closely with suppliers and involve growers in this. Significant investments will also be required.’ And the role of growers will change, too.

‘They will become more like managers, overseeing all the processes and systems and taking a helicopter view. At the moment, they need to take every small decision themselves. But that will no longer be necessary – automated systems will take care of most of that.’

autonomous growing will influence the products and services that Ridder offers. ‘I expect we’ll move to offering clients more than just individual products or components. They are likely to be integrated and merged into all-in-one systems. And I also think that we’ll be offering our products and services more as a package or in the form of a subscription. So instead of growers purchasing individual products, they will purchase integrated packages, and perhaps even ‘lease’ the hardware. That will make it easier to tailor the system to their needs and to make changes as those needs develop. It will help growers to scale up quicker, and they will always be working with the very latest equipment.’

For more information, visit www.ridder.com

Sponsoring the Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge Based on its vision of horticulture, Ridder is sponsoring the Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge organized by Wageningen University & Research (WUR). ‘It’s important for us to promote this vision and to develop partnerships, and that’s why we are sponsoring this challenge. I saw what an impact the first two editions of the challenge had. They genuinely created more awareness and acceptance.

Some new companies have also emerged. We’re delighted to be contributing to these developments.’

The development of

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

27

Cooling Pads

GET THE BEST OUT OF YOUR COOLING PAD

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e have frequently emphasized how important it is to implement a maintenance program to safeguard the product durability and performances.

Also for the cooling pads it is important to plan a series of activities and precautions aimed to achieve these goals.

Termotecnica Pericoli explain us such procedures: HAVE A LOOK TO THE WATER QUALITY • In order to avoid problems or chemical attack to the panel, water should be maintained at a pH level between 6 and 8. Do not use any chemical products in the water supply and use only room-temperature water.

Hot water as well as some additives may accelerate the natural degradation process of the panels’ resin coating, up to bring the structure to collapse.

• It is recommended to use water with a hardness not greater than 250 ppm CaCO3 in order to avoid salinity to exceed acceptable levels, it is recommended to perform cycles of bleed-off from the

28 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

recirculated water circuit. It allows to avoid the formation of limescale deposits on the surface, condition which significantly reduces the cooling efficiency. Keep the mineral drain valve at a minimum opening of 5%.

• In some extreme conditions of use, it can be a good practice to periodically drain the water used in the plant and replace it with fresh one.

In general, making occasionally water analysis could be a good way to ensure the optimal operating conditions.

CHECK HOW THE AIR PASSES THROUGH THE PANELS PERIcool panels find their optimal working condition (high cooling efficiency and low pressure drop) when the air uniformly passes through them. The formation of scales on the surface is one of the reasons that may cause a performance decay.

To avoid this problem, we recommend to: • Increase the water flowrate that wets the panels

• Clean frequently the water distribution circuit • Clean the water filter once a week. Do not operate the system without filters • Effect frequent discharge cycles of recirculated water and clean the rank AVOID THE EXCESSIVE GROWTH OF ALGAE We suggest to: • Reduce the exposure to the sun • Effect regularly some drying cycles of the pads. To speed up this operation it is advisable to stop the circulation pumps before stopping the fans • Avoid any aggressive substances because they can cause irreparable damage to the evaporative panels PLAN A CLEANING ROUTINE • Clean the panels with a soft bristle brush and then perform a washing cycle using clean water. Once the cycle is finished, replace all the circulating water • Clean the water filter once a week For any further advice, question or enquiry, you can send an email to marketing@pericoli.com, our climate experts are glad to help you.

July-August 2021

Mulch

SOLPLAST PREVENTS THE RISK OF HIGH TEMPERATURES ON THE SOIL

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ne of the most relevant technological innovations of mulch over time has been the multilayer extrusion to develop twocolour films. Surely the most common bicolour within this range is the white/black combination whose white face reflects solar IR radiation while its black face guarantees maximum opacity to control or fight weeds.

We performed a comparative experience in a field of strawberries on the coast of Peru which provided very interesting conclusions.

Our objective was to measure the soil temperature difference between the ridges covered with White/ Black mulch and those

covered with Black mulch.

The test was conducted between the months of March and June of the year 2018, collecting close to 100,000 soil temperature records which we summarize below (figure 1).

Analyzing the data above we conclude that the Black mulch is the one that clearly heats the soil the most with a differential of almost +6º C with respect to the White/ Black mulch. While the crop withstood peaks of almost 43º C with the Black mulch, the plot with White/Black mulch did not reach 37º C any day of the 3-month cycle analyzed.

But perhaps the most surprising and unexpected test result that we found with this study was a 100%

plant mortality with the Black mulch versus 8% with the White/Black mulch, which we were able to verify in one of the follow-up field visits.

In the foreground we can see all the plants that did not withstand the high temperatures with the Black mulch, while in the background the strawberries with White/ Black mulch develop normally.

The choice of color and arrangement of layers of the mulch is a critical choice that can cause a wide range of results on the crops from the most beneficial to the greatest of failures. When implementing new techniques in plasticulture it is important to know well the conditions of climate, soil structure, humidity and crop to design the most suitable plastic for the application.

For more information, visit www.solplast.com or contact us in info@solplast.com

Environment

Black

White/ Black

Medium T

21.4 °C

26.8 °C

25.0 °C

Max T

32.0 °C

42.7 °C

36.8 °C

Figure 1

July-August 2021

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

29

Irrigation

PIVOT IRRIGATION? HERE ARE THE PERFECT BKT TIRES FOR THIS IMPORTANT APPLICATION

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ith the arrival of the hottest months of the year, soil and field moisture is more crucial than ever. Choosing the most suitable irrigation systems and having the right tools and equipment can really make the difference in guaranteeing the crops and soil health during the summer.

Irrigation methods and pivots Among the various irrigation methods, the one which certainly stands out is that of spraying. This envisages the distribution of water on the crops using sprinkler systems, which simulate rainfall with reduced energy consumption.

This type of irrigation is managed through ranger systems, i.e. linear systems that are ideal for the irrigation of square and rectangular fields, and with pivots characterized by the circular movement of the irrigation system around a fixed point.

30 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

They are mainly found where extensive farming is used for crops such as corn and soya.

The pivots consist of a pyramid support tower placed at one end of the spans, which supplements the hydraulic supply of the system.

In addition, these are mobile systems fitted with special, dedicated tires which guarantee the correct maneuverability of the structure: that is why choosing the equipment for this application is so essential in guaranteeing the correct soil moisture.

The characteristics of the tires for pivots Suitable tires for pivots must first of all guarantee good traction on wet ground: this means guaranteeing good meshing of the soil and consequently good selfcleaning properties.

Flexibility and versatility are two more essential characteristics for tires used for this application.

The tires must offer good performance in any movement on the road, during transport of the equipment used for irrigation.

The compounds used to make the tires for irrigation must also withstand work conditions in which there is a constant shift from dry to wet and hot soil. All factors which further age tires used for this application.

BKT tires for pivots To meet these challenges, BKT has devised solutions developed to fit pivot irrigation systems. For this application BKT proposes a radial and two bias tire lines.

These products share excellent self-cleaning properties, thanks to the dedicated casing designed to increase traction and to improve performance on the road during any movement of the equipment.

For more information, visit www.bkt-tires.com

July-August 2021

Agricultural Machinery

NEW HOLLAND NUTRISENSE NUTRIENT ANALYSIS TECHNOLOGY HELPS FARMERS MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS TO MARKET THEIR CROPS MORE PROFITABLY

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armers are constantly looking for ways to do more with less: improve the quality of their crop while optimising the use of inputs, preserving the health of the soil and reducing the environmental impact of their activities. It’s a delicate balancing act where advanced technologies can make all the difference.

New Holland’s NutriSense system is one of them: awarded the Silver Medal at the SIMA Innovation Awards 2021, this innovation provides farmers with

32 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

valuable measurements of crop moisture, starch, crude protein, fibre (ADF and NDF), ash and crude fat content in every area of their field. The farmer can visualise this agronomic data with an intuitive, user-friendly interface on their MyPLM Connect portal and use it to make informed decisions that will enable them to market their crops most profitably.

Eduardo Nicz, PLM Product Marketing Global, explains: “Our strategy at New Holland is to integrate digital technologies to deliver a

smart and connected agriculture to our customers, with easy-to-use solutions.

The NutriSense system is an excellent example: it provides farmers with detailed agronomic data collected by their New Holland combine or forage harvesters in the field. This will enable them to use their inputs most efficiently and harvest a crop they will sell at better prices.”

The NutriSense system on New Holland’s FR Forage Cruiser can help the livestock farmer or contractor in

July-August 2021

Agricultural Machinery

New Holland’s award-winning NutriSenseLM™ system is now integrated in the brand’s MyPLM™ Connect portal, enabling customers to visualise crop nutrient data collected by their machines in the MyPLM Connect Farm application.

different phases of the farming cycle, starting from understanding and managing field health and performance using year-on-year field data.

They can also use the measurements collected by the machine to determine if there is soil contamination in the forage, so they can add a safeguard for the livestock. At harvest time, the crop moisture data supports the farmer’s decision making on animal feed storage. The crude protein, crude fat and starch content of the crop enables them to improve the animal feed ration content and quality. The result is a healthier, more productive field and high-quality animal feed for the farmer’s livestock or for the contractor to sell at a higher price.

Cash crop farmers operating a New Holland CR or a CX7 and CX8 Combine

July-August 2021

with NutriSense will benefit too from the year-on-year field data to manage the health and performance of their fields. Understanding the crop protein levels across their field can be very useful when calculating fertiliser application rates for the following seasons, optimising the use of inputs.

The protein content in the grain enables the farmer to determine whether the crop is suitable for animal feed or for milling wheat, which sells at a higher price.

Knowing the value of their crop at harvest will also help them decide how to store the crop. The levels of crop nutrients such as starch also determine whether the crop is suitable for bio-fuel production. With the increasing demand for this sustainable fuel, this can represent an interesting

revenue stream.

Lars Skjoldager Sørensen, Crop Harvesting Product Management Global, comments: “New Holland CR, CX7 and CX8 combines deliver massive capacity with outstanding grain quality. The NutriSense system gives our customers an additional advantage: the detailed information on nutrients enables them to optimize the use of inputs, determine the best way to manage their crop, and understand value of their crop to obtain the best price for it.”

Visualisation of data from the NutriSense system is the latest addition to the continually expanding array of features and functionalities of the MyPLM Connect Farm app designed to help farmers optimise the performance, productivity and profitability of their operation.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

33

Agricultural Machinery

KUBOTA SA INTRODUCES NEW IMPLEMENT RANGE

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ubota SA has introduced a much anticipated new line of implements to complement its already renowned Kubota tractor range.

In the round baler segment, the company has introduced the BF3255RN, which is a net only baler, fix chambers and full rollers; the BF3255RNT, a net and twine, fix chambers and full rollers; as well as the BF3255SC, a net and twine, fix chamber and full rollers, with a supercut option.

“We have also introduced the BV4160, a net and twine, with variable chamber that is specifically brought in for the contracting business in South

34 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

Africa,” explains Dennis van der Merwe, national sales manager for Kubota SA at Smith Power Equipment.

“To complete our haymaking equipment range, we have introduced a Kubota disk mower range from 1,7 m up to 3,2 m cutting width, which will also be available with a conditioner as well as two models of power rakes – 3,5 m and 4,3 m working width,” he adds.

To further strengthen its offering to dealers and customers in South Africa, Kubota SA has introduced specialised implements, including shredders, mulchers, rotary mowers,

slashers and flake mulchers.

These are manufactured in the Netherlands and sold under the Kubota brand name.

“Over the past season, we have been testing these new haymaking products in South Africa. The products have been developed with excellent workmanship, exceptional quality and are able to do the job they were designed to do,” he says.

“All these products are backed

by Kubota SA’s dealer network, ensuring greater parts availability as well as unparalleled technical support throughout the country,” concludes Van der Merwe.

For more information, visit www.smithpower.co.za

July-August 2021

Agricultural Machinery

JOHN DEERE LAUNCHES BIGGEST EVER TRAILED SPRAYER

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ohn Deere’s new R975i sprayer is the biggest trailed model the company has ever produced.

This 7500-litre machine will join the rest of the R900i Series line-up, with tank capacities of 4400, 5200 and 6200 litres, in 2022.

As with other sprayers in the range, this new model benefits from John Deere Precision Ag technologies, enabling customers to profit from additional smart solutions. The R975i is designed to meet customer requirements for larger tank volumes and wider booms, as well as higher accuracy, reduced chemical use and more comfort when filling and operating the sprayer.

The machine’s new larger volume will mean farmers and contractors can spend more time in the field spraying, and so increase productivity by covering

July-August 2021

larger areas with one tank.

The proven PowrSpray dualcircuit solution system also helps to speed up filling times, improves spray application and increases accuracy.

For the first time on John Deere sprayers, the M900(i) and R900i Series models will offer 25cm nozzle spacing as an option. This is an ‘On Centre’ solution that means an additional nozzle is placed between each 50cm nozzle body on the spray boom.

John Deere has also added a nozzle body plus an additional nozzle at each end of the boom to offer full coverage and eliminate underdosing at the boom ends.

All trailed sprayer ranges will also benefit from the options launched on the R700i Series for 2021. These include Individual Nozzle Control, which limits over- or underdosing to help preserve

yields while saving input costs. Nozzle Control offers savings in crop protection products worth up to 6€/ha on top of Section Control.

Another feature is the new Closed Transfer System, which is an ISO approved coupling. This prevents contact with and any spillages of crop protection products, to ensure filling the sprayer is safe for the environment as well as the operator.

On the M700(i) and R700i Series sprayers, an additional key feature for the German and Netherlands markets is a new 33m wide boom with 3m Section or Individual Nozzle Control options. This boom will complement small 3m grain drills as well as 75cm row crops, enabling fewer passes with one tankful and therefore also increasing productivity.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

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Dairy Farming

ENERGY DENSITY ESSENTIAL IN DAIRY RATIONS DURING SUMMER MONTHS

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s summer temperatures begin to increase, dairy producers should combine management and feed strategy changes to mitigate production loss due to heat stress.

“Heat stress is a plague impacting dairy herds globally during hotter months. Not only is it detrimental to animal welfare, but it also impacts milk production, feed efficiency, overall health and even reproduction,” says Dr Richard Kirkland, ruminant nutritionist for Volac Wilmar Feed Ingredients.

“Identification, diet and good management are all essential for combating this issue.”

For most cows, heat stress can begin at around 25°C. But more important than the external temperature is the combination of temperature and humidity.

“The higher the humidity, the more difficult it is for body heat to naturally dissipate

Dr Richard Kirkland, Global Technical Manager for Volac Wilmar Feed Ingredients

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despite sweating and panting.

When humidity is involved, cows can suffer from heat stress at lower temperatures than usual, experiencing heat stress in the low 20s,” says Dr Kirkland.

Signs of heat stress According to Dr Mike Hutjens, researcher and professor at the University of Illinois, USA, heat stressed dairy cattle are easy to identify with several clinical symptoms varying in degrees of severity.

One of the preliminary signs is a shift in behavior. Overheated cows will spend more of their time budget standing and seeking shade. When insufficient shade is provided for an entire group, this may cause individuals to clump together making it even more difficult to dissipate body heat.

Increased breathing is another evident sign of excessive heat.

“Typically, anything over 60 breaths per minute is a sign of heat stress,” says Dr Hutjens.

“This can easily go as high as 80 or 90 breaths per minute (and) that can lead to panting.”

Maintenance requirements of heat-stressed cows can increase by up to 25 percent due to activities such as sweating and panting adds Dr Kirkland.

The cost of heat stress Excessive heat has several consequences for a cow beyond obvious discomfort.

Many of them are completely

unseen while silently eating away at efficiency and productivity.

A major effect of heat stress is reduced dry matter intake, with intakes typically reducing by 20 to 40 percent.

“The combination of lower dry matter intakes and increased maintenance requirements will quickly put a cow in an energy deficit,” says Dr Kirkland. “As a result, other functions including fertility and milk production are significantly reduced. According to various studies, conception rates can plummet to 10 percent during the hottest months of the year and milk yield by 35 percent.”

With altered intake and shifting maintenance requirements, milk composition also suffers. According to Dr Hutjens, this could be in the form of lower milk fat and protein content. Other lessconsidered consequences include an increase in the risk

July-August 2021

Dairy Farming

Heat stress on dairy cows decreases DM intakes while increasing maintenance requirements.

Feeding an energy-dense nutrient like rumen-protected fats will boost energy supply while supporting rumen function.

of lameness due to excessive standing, lower rumen pH and even smaller calf birthweights due to restricted uterine blood flow.

Feeding for energy density Given the role of energy and feed intake in heat stress, amending the diet is not only necessary but also a part of the solution.

Digestion of feed requires energy and the process also generates heat internally.

“Good quality, highlydigestible forage should be offered to the highest yielding cows under the most stress, while digestible fibre sources such as sugarbeet pulp will help maintain production,” says Dr Kirkland. “Poor quality forage should be avoided as it requires a lot more work by the animal to chew and digest – generating greater internal heat production.”

Diets should also be

July-August 2021

supplemented with energydense nutrients such as rumen-protected fats. These boost energy supply without over-burdening the rumen with fermentation acids.

“Dietary fat undergoes minimal fermentation in the rumen and is used with much great efficiency than other sources of nutrients. The ME of a product like Megalac enables high energy density diets to be formulated to help ensure energy supply is increased even when total dry matter intake is low,” explains Dr Kirkland.

“Rumen-protected fat is also more suitable to feed than cereals by not adding to the acid load in the rumen, which can increase risk of acidosis during heat stress conditions.”

“Fats are highly energetic, but it is the fatty acid makeup of the fat that will determine how the animal responds to the additional energy supplied,” he explains.

“By understanding the impact these key fatty acids have on specific areas of performance, farmers can better target overall herd productivity.”

Remember the role of management Besides diet, dairy producers should also be utilizing other management strategies to reduce the heat burden in their herds.

“Summer housing details should have adequate air circulation with fans, plus good ventilation and sprinklers,” concludes Dr Hutjens. “Extra care should be taken in the summer months to avoid overcrowding as much as possible.

This means not overburdening freestalls and reducing time spent in holding pens as much as possible.”

For more information, contact Laura.steeden@volac.com

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

37

Eggs Cargo System

A BRAND NEW SYSTEM FOR DUCK AND TURKEY EGG TRANSPORTATION

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ollowing the very successful EggsCargoSystem® for chicken eggs, GI OVO has now also developed the EggsCargoSystem XL. The XL system is specially designed for the transport of duck and turkey eggs. The system consists of a tray which is designed for 20 eggs and which offers maximum comfort and protection to the eggs. In addition, it consists of a pallet with the dimensions 120x90 cm. These pallets are exactly matched to 12 stacks of trays per row. Finally, the system consists of a divider.

This divider makes the use of empty trays on top of the stacks unnecessary. The stacks of eggs can also be slid over the divider instead of having to be placed. That makes the work much lighter and faster.

The system can be build up to

38 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

5 rows containing 7.200 eggs per pallet.

The entire system can also be picked up and unpacked with robots. In case of bad roads, the EC protector can also be used.

This protector connects the top layer of eggs with the row below and prevents the top layer from jumping with the risk of unnecessary damage to the eggs.

All parts of the EggsCargoSystem XL are made of durable plastic with an anti-aging additive. If desired, the system can also be provided with Clean Compound®. An additive which, in combination with professional cleaning of the

parts, reduces the risk of contamination to a minimum.

GI OVO can supply the system in almost all RAL colors and provided with customer-specific inscriptions. All this for indication to the user. The EggsCargoSystem XL is the perfect solution for the damagefree transport of duck-turkey eggs.

For more information, visit www.gi-ovo.com/eggscargosystemxl

July-August 2021

Manure Management

IMPROPER DISPOSAL OF POULTRY AND LIVESTOCK WASTES “ESPECIALLY WET MANURE” WILL BE DISASTROUS TO FARMS AND ENVIRONMENT

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ue to unstable environment caused by global warming and continuous innovations of advance technology equipment, many farmers now are force to “Shift from Traditional Cages into Fully Automatic System or Battery Cages”. However, it has an adverse effect as it will give you a challenge in handling or managing the wet manure that will be taken out every day.

Nowadays, many farmers main concerned is how to get rid of the wet manure. For proper treatment of the wastes, Kohshin has the right solution through effective

July-August 2021

way of composting. Kohshin has various model of Dryer & Composting machines where they are designed to cater small to larger amount of wastes. Thru continuous innovation, Kohshin has develop additional system such as Pre-Composting, Scrubber, Aeration and Compo-master (Used for data monitoring using Sensors at Pre-composting).

During the process thru Kohshin system, beneficial microorganism will be generated such as mesophilic (25-40º C) and thermophilic (40-75º C) bacteria that will generate heat. At every level

of temperature, different bacteria will exist and they will release enzymes which are beneficial to the plants.

As a result of effective processing using Kohshin technology, the final product will be dried & odorless, free of bad pathogens, pelletized & uniformly sized, harmless to the plants, easy to handle & apply. With the mentioned characteristics, product will be safer to use, valuable and easy to sell compare to the unprocessed or partially composted final products.

For more information, visit www.kohshin-s.jp

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

39

Aquaculture

EVONIK AND VLAND DEVELOP PRODUCT TO IMPROVE WATER QUALITY IN AQUACULTURE FOR SHRIMP

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vonik and the Qingdao Vland Biotech Group (Vland for short) have developed an innovative product for improving water quality in aquaculture. It is tailored primarily to the requirements of shrimp farming in ponds.

The new product, called AQUAVI® ProPond, is the result of about two years of

40 Gulf Agriculture | www.gulfagriculture.com

joint development work and is to be launched in China at the end of the year. Vland will be responsible for production and Evonik for exclusive marketing.

This has now been contractually agreed between the partners, who have been cooperating on probiotics since 2015.

AQUAVI® ProPond is part of a system solution from Evonik Animal Nutrition for shrimp in

aquaculture that can reduce the need for marine feed sources and significantly improve water quality and animal health. It includes four components that are finely tuned to each other: AQUAVI® ProPond, AQUAVI® Met-Met, omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA from Veramaris algae oil, and AMINOShrimp®.

AQUAVI® ProPond consists

July-August 2021

Aquaculture of three strains of bacteria that effectively remove ammonia, nitrate and nitrite from the water. Ammonia arises from the excretions of the animals.

It can have acute and chronic toxic effects and is therefore a critical parameter for water quality. Nitrate and nitrite are also harmful to animals in higher concentrations.

“Our common goal is to make global aquaculture, which we need to feed the world’s growing population in a healthy way, more sustainable,” says Dr. Emmanuel Auer, head of the Animal Nutrition business line at Evonik.

“Strategic partnerships will move us forward faster in doing so.”

“When it comes to sustainability in aquaculture, water quality and the way it is realized play a critical role,” says Aron Chen, CEO of Vland.

AQUAVI® ProPond has been extensively tested for safety and efficacy in both laboratory and field trials and will be piloted with the first customers

in China, the largest shrimp farming market, starting this summer.

“Our new additive is suitable for improving the animals’ living conditions by breaking down toxic compounds, for keeping animals healthy, and for reducing environmental impact caused by too frequent water exchanges,” says Dr. Christoph Kobler, head of

RD&I for the Animal Nutrition business line at Evonik.

Vland is a technology company based in Qingdao, China, specializing in enzymes, probiotics and animal health.

Probiotics are already a central component of Evonik’s Gut Health Solutions program. Both companies have their own bacterial strain libraries, which served as a starting point for joint work on a probiotic solution for improving water quality in shrimp farming.

AQUAVI® Met-Met is a methionine product specially developed for shrimp, which makes it possible to feed these animals almost without fish meal. Veramaris algae oil provides the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA necessary for healthy shrimp development, replacing fish oil in the feed.

Both products thus help to protect marine fish stocks and preserve marine biodiversity. The AMINOShrimp® software helps to adjust the optimal amino acid composition of the feed to the respective developmental stage of the animals.

For more information, visit www.evonik.com

July-August 2021

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

41

Dubai Update

EXPLORE DUBAI’S HOME-GROWN PRODUCE SCENE THROUGH A RANGE OF AGRICULTURAL AND ARTISANAL EXPERIENCES From local farms and agriculture, to artisan makers and specialist markets, Dubai has a bourgeoning food scene ready to be discovered

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s a unique city located at the crossroads of the East and the West, the diversity of offerings is what makes Dubai a must-visit destination. From heritage to entertainment, outdoor adventures to beach activities, and family attractions to shopping, visitors to the city have so much to look forward to. Making the Dubai experience even more exciting is the wide array of cuisines and diverse offerings reflecting the flavours of over 200 nationalities that live in the city, further enhancing its position as the culinary capital of the region.

The gastronomy experience goes beyond Dubai’s towering metropolis, where one can find

a bourgeoning produce scene that reflects the city’s diverse ecosystem and sustainable food resources. From artisan makers to specialist markets, tourists can delight in a multitude of culinary and artisanal experiences whilst learning about local innovation. What’s more, with a large focus on food security and regenerative farming practices, the agricultural sector continues to grow with a record number of ecological farms for tourists and locals to visit, as well as take home the fresh produce.

Through efforts to boost local food production and sustainable agriculture, Dubai offers a multitude of opportunities for residents and visitors to support

Bateel Dubai

enterprise as well as providing a new lens through which to experience the city.

Enjoy enriching agricultural experiences My Farm Dubai is leading the agricultural movement with the launch of a self-sustaining eco farm. A passion project from local Mohammed Aissaoui, the farm takes visitors on an informative agricultural journey where they will learn and taste all types of fruits, vegetables and honeys, as well as the medicinal attributes of an abundance of herbs and spices.

There is also a wide variety of different soaps produced at My Farm Dubai, offering delightful gifts for family and friends.

Desert Organic Farm

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July-August 2021

Dubai Update

Spice Souq

Aissaoui, a former engineer who was born and raised in the south of France within a farming family, came to Dubai with the goal of creating a selfsustaining farm in the middle of the desert by combining nature with advanced technology.

Mohammed also educates visitors on the UAE’s unique and thriving farming heritage, making it a must-attend attraction for those looking to do something different.

Another experience that champions organic produce is Desert Organic, an Emiratiowned and run family business producing delicious organic fruit and vegetables. Amongst the 50 types of crops at this fourhectare farm, visitors can purchase kale, celery, capsicums, aubergines, pumpkins and a wide variety of herbs and dates.

For those looking for a unique agricultural experience, located off the Al Ain road lies the much loved Camelicious, an ideal activity for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors can experience close encounters with Arabia’s native animal on the sustainable camel farm and enjoy activities such as feeding the camels, taking picture, watch camel races and more.

Guests can also enjoy or purchase an array of camel dairy products including milk and ice cream.

July-August 2021

Ripe Market

Located in the heart of Umm Suqeim is the Jumeirah Fish Market, offering the best fresh and affordable seafood in Dubai. This quaint little fish market is the perfect place for seafood lovers who can purchase more than 50 different types of seafood including lobster, crab, tiger prawns, shrimps, fish and more. The best part is that visitors can also get it cleaned before taking it to one of the nearby local restaurants to cook it to your liking.

The Hatta Honey Bee Garden which is a one of its kind Bee Garden in the region creates 100% raw locally produced honey and blends education with experience by highlighting the importance of bees to our environment. This unique farm promotes the sustainability of the Honeybee for environmental impact, food security, and economic growth.

Must-try artisanal products For unique chocolate flavours synonymous with Dubai such as date and cardamom, visitors must head to Mirzam Chocolate in Al Quoz 3.

There is only one place to find finest artisanal products every week and that is The Ripe Market, running across multiple locations across the city

including the Dubai Police Academy, Springs Souk, Nakheel Mall and Times Square Centre.

Local favourites Dubai’s Spice Souk is a colourful, aromatic and sensory experience, and a great way to discover the region’s authentic flavours. Visitors can discover the foundations of traditional Arabic and South Asian cuisine as they explore the old-world spice market in Dubai's heritage area.

Finally, no trip to Dubai would be complete without savouring its signature delicacy; the humble date. With more than nine indigenous date varieties including the Khalas date and the Barhi date, date palms are as synonymous with the Middle East as oil and sand. Visitors can purchase these sweet gems on every corner of the city, with luxurious boutiques such as Bateel offering tasting sessions and farm to table experiences, as well as a brief history on the date’s importance in the region.

For those wanting to get an in depth look at the date production process, Dubai is soon to house the world’s largest privately owned date factory, Al Barakah Dates, set to run on 6,500 solar panels to offset 3,000 tonnes of emissions per year.

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

43

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