In the realm of corn fertilizer and herbicides, a seemingly static landscape is undergoing significant transformations with the advent of cutting-edge technologies. While traditional nitrogen fertilizer products persist, revolutionary changes are on the horizon, as discussed by experts at January’s Farm Futures Business Summit in Coralville, Iowa.

New Nitrogen Sources: The conventional Haber-Bosch process, a cornerstone of ammonia production for nitrogen fertilizer, is facing scrutiny due to its substantial carbon footprint. Companies like Nitricity are pioneering alternative methods, utilizing electricity to create a low-carbon nitrate acid solution, revolutionizing the approach to commercial nitrogen production.

Herbicide Solid-Encapsulation: Despite a two-decade hiatus in the introduction of new herbicide sites of action, advancements persist. Surtain herbicide from BASF exemplifies this progress, employing solid-encapsulation technology. This innovation allows pre- and early postemergence application in corn, offering improved efficacy in weed control.

Smart Spraying: Machine learning is ushering in a new era of precision in chemical application. Notable systems such as John Deere’s See & Spray, Bosch and BASF’s One Smart Spray, and Greeneye Technology’s Selective Spraying employ targeted herbicide application, minimizing chemical usage and maximizing efficiency.

While the benefits include reduced chemical usage, the implementation of these technologies may necessitate the reformulation of chemistries, a process with a timeframe of five to seven years and potential regulatory considerations, according to BASF technical services representative Kurt Maertens.

In essence, the agricultural landscape is experiencing a paradigm shift, with these technological advancements poised to redefine crop protection and production methods.

—

#agriculture #cropproduction #fertilizertechnology #herbicidetechnology #precisionfarming #innovationinagriculture #farmfutures #technologicaldisruption #smartfarming #mindvoice #mindvoicenews #currentaffairs #currentnews #latestnews #ipsc #iaspreparation #upsc