Herbicide GUSS autonomously – and judiciously – sprays orchards

If fruit is going to be grown using herbicides – which is still largely the case – then the fewer of the chemicals that are used, the better. The Herbicide GUSS autonomous robotic spray vehicle was designed with just such concerns in mind.Continue Read… Continue reading Herbicide GUSS autonomously – and judiciously – sprays orchards

Apple waste may find use in health-boosting chicken feed

In the commercial production of apple juice and cider, large quantities of fibrous waste – known as pomace – is generated as a byproduct. And while that material is currently just discarded, new research suggests that it could be used to boost the heal… Continue reading Apple waste may find use in health-boosting chicken feed

Monarch launches first commercial “driver-optional” electric tractor

After two years of development, California startup Monarch Tractor has launched the AI-packing, all-electric MK-V Founder Series, and announced deliveries to its first customer – wine and spirits producer Constellation Brands.Continue ReadingCategory: … Continue reading Monarch launches first commercial “driver-optional” electric tractor

“Smart ranches” of the future may harness power from animal movement

If you’re a farmer with a herd of hundreds of cows, keeping tabs on their whereabouts and wellbeing can be challenging work, but we’ve seen how sensor tags might one day ease the burden. New research has taken this concept in an interesting, self-susta… Continue reading “Smart ranches” of the future may harness power from animal movement

“Superpopcorn” packs almost twice the amount of an essential nutrient

Although plain unbuttered popcorn is a relatively healthy snack, it’s still not one that most people would think of as being particularly nutritious. That could change, however, as a new variety reportedly offers nearly twice the normal levels of an im… Continue reading “Superpopcorn” packs almost twice the amount of an essential nutrient

Study suggests cover crops may reduce yields of main crops

Farmers are increasingly being encouraged to plant cover crops, which take the place of their main crops during the off-season. According to a new study, however, the use of cover crops can actually reduce main-crop yields.Continue ReadingCategory: Sci… Continue reading Study suggests cover crops may reduce yields of main crops

Study suggests fertilizers may hamper bees’ ability to identify flowers

A number of studies have already shown that synthetic chemicals can harm the bees that are vital to the pollination of plants. New research now additionally indicates that fertilizers may disrupt bees’ ability to identify flowers, reducing the likeliho… Continue reading Study suggests fertilizers may hamper bees’ ability to identify flowers

New perennial rice promises less labor, lower costs and higher profits

Just like many of the flowers in your garden, rice has traditionally been an annual plant – that means new crops have to be sown every year. A perennial version is now available, however, which comes back on its own over multiple growing seasons.Contin… Continue reading New perennial rice promises less labor, lower costs and higher profits

New biopolymer gives asphalt roads a soybean-based-boost

Along with their use in foods, soybeans have also been utilized as a source of graphene, a greener alternative to mulch, and an ingredient in longer-lasting tires. Now, they’re additionally being used to extend the life of asphalt roads.Continue Readin… Continue reading New biopolymer gives asphalt roads a soybean-based-boost