Technology

The celebrations have commenced at the brand’s global headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin, US, says Joe Spencer.

The most important variable affecting plant growth is light exposure, and it is therefore important to measure the amount of light your plants receive. Prof Gert Venter explains how this is done.

Common sense will help to ensure years of trouble-free motoring. Lack of it can have disastrous results, says Jake Venter.

Avant’s battery-powered loaders are ideal for indoor use where ventilation is limited. They can work at full power without exposing the operators and their co-workers to dangerous exhaust emissions, says Joe Spencer.

The Mercedes-Benz X-Class premium bakkie is set to make a dramatic entrance into South Africa later this year, and will offer all the qualities of a classic pick-up – toughness, reliability, strength and off-road capability.

Prof Gert Venter discusses an affordable, easy-to-implement measure to protect a crop from extreme weather. No fuel or electricity is used, resulting in considerable cost savings.

The McCormick X8 VT Drive is the most powerful tractor ever built by this manufacturer. Joe Spencer reports on its launch at LAMMA, the UK’s premier agricultural machinery show.

Mechanisation of sugar cane farming in Brazil has boosted the rural economy and helped meet a growing demand.

Seawater greenhouses may be the answer to the world’s water scarcity problem, says Prof Gert Venter.

New Holland’s field trial of its BigBaler 1290 demonstrated remarkable productivity: 1 254 bales averaging 434kg in 17 hours.

Usually, it’s a fuel or oil leak, or an electrical short. And the problem often starts with poor maintenance.

The company’s latest specialist tractors, equipment and systems recently revealed in Italy offer many advanced features, enhancing New Holland’s reputation for innovation.

About 70% of the earth is covered with surface water, but 97% of this is seawater. With only 3% consisting of freshwater, and less than 1% available to living organisms, hydroponic production can play an important role in reducing agricultural water usage, says Prof Gert Venter.

Before you’re tempted to snap up that bargain-priced second-hand 4WD, check it carefully! These vehicles are more complex and usually punished harder than ordinary cars.

John Deere has received a special mention in the ‘Awards for Innovation’ at SIMA in Paris. Joe Spencer looks back on other milestones in the evolution of the tractor.

The spate of applications to explore large areas of South Africa for natural resources to mine is of increasing concern to the agricultural sector. Agri SA executive director, Omri van Zyl, and TAU SA general manager, Bennie van Zyl, share their farmers unions’ views on the subject with Lloyd Phillips.

The saying, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail” is certainly applicable to intensive farming systems such as hydroponics and aeroponics. Planning should encompass climate control, handling, processing, value-adding and marketing your products, writes Prof Gert Venter.

Hyundai has earned a reputation for quality and reliability. In a hotly contested class, the new Tucson compact stands out. It’s comfortable on the tar and capable on dirt roads. Gavin Foster reports.

Pöttinger has joined the ranks of planter manufacturers that promote the value of double rows in maize and other crops, says Joe Spencer.

In this instalment of our series on alternative crop production methods, international hydroponics consultant, Prof Gert Venter, outlines the various elements that plants need for optimal growth.