On 30th July ADAS hosted an event on the latest technological development on precision application of herbicide for late-stage weeding. The event took place at Matthews Fruit on Aberbran Fawr Farm, a pick-your-own soft fruit and pumpkin farm in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.
The day kicked off with an introduction to the innovative ‘Weedwiper’ technology, developed by Micron. This system features a non-drip brush applicator that directly applies herbicide to weeds, offering a cost-effective and safer method for weed control, which can reduce overall herbicide usage.
The Weedwiper’s adjustable boom length makes it versatile, allowing for use in various farming operations, including vineyards, horticultural crops, arable fields, and grasslands. Additionally, the boom height can be tailored to accommodate different terrains and weed heights, making it particularly suitable for late-stage weeding.
The event attracted several pumpkin farmers interested in advanced weed control methods. They were particularly drawn to the Weedwiper’s precision application capabilities and its compatibility with small machinery equipped with narrow wheels.
During the demonstration, participants observed the Weedwiper in action in a pumpkin field facing weed challenges due to the lack of interrow hoeing this season. While there were initial concerns about glyphosate being applied late in the growing season, the farmers saw the potential benefits of this technology in effectively managing weeds using this targeted approach.
In addition to the demonstration, the event provided a valuable platform for participants to exchange knowledge on diversifying farm income and operating a pick-your-own farm in South Wales. Information about the Oper8 project was also shared, with attendees expressing appreciation for the opportunity to learn about and discuss innovative weeding technologies.
The demo day at Aberbran Fawr Farm was a great success, offering valuable insights into effective weed control methods and fostering a collaborative environment for local farmers. Oper8 plans to link up with farmers groups in Wales next year for more demo days.
