How a potato farmer improved efficiency by one-third with MagrowTec magnetic-assist spraying technology
A family-run farm, growing a wide range of crops including potatoes, onions, carrots, brassicas, lettuce, pumpkins, and watermelon is the latest to test MagrowTec’s magnetic-assist spray technology.
Always on the lookout for technologies that can support more efficient farming practices, the farm management team at Hira Bhana & Co Ltd, based in Pukekohe New Zealand was drawn to MagrowTec for its simplicity and performance.
“It’s truly a set-and-forget type of technology,” said a representative from the farm, highlighting the ease of integration into their existing spraying operation.”
In collaboration with Vantage New Zealand, MagrowTec’s local dealer, a spray trial was conducted to measure improvements in spray coverage using water-sensitive papers. The trial involved a conventional sprayer operating alongside one equipped with the MagrowTec system.
The results were clear. Spray coverage improved by 23%, particularly in the lower canopy where coverage is typically more challenging. Notably, the sprayer with MagrowTec achieved this performance using only 260 L/ha, outperforming the conventional system operating at 360 L/ha.
This improvement in efficiency allowed the Hira Bhana farm operation to significantly reduce their water rate, from 400 L/ha down to 260 L/ha, a 35% reduction.
In addition, fewer fill-ups meant fewer trips and more ground covered in less time. The result was a 33% increase in daily spraying productivity, saving both fuel and labour.
Bharat Bhana, owner of the Hira Bhana farm operation, detailed the trial results, “We’re seeing less drift, which means more spray is getting to the plant, where it should be.
“Our water rate has been reduced, and overall, we’re getting a lot more done. What used to take two days to spray 200 hectares of onions now takes just a day and a half.
We’re saving fuel and spray, reducing drift, and conserving water, which is good for the environment,” Bharat Bhana added.
The environmental and operational benefits reinforce MagrowTec’s core value proposition: doing more with less.
By using magnetic-assist technology to improve the delivery and effectiveness of crop protection products, MagrowTec helps farmers optimise their applications, reduce waste, and support sustainability goals.
With its ability to deliver measurable performance improvements with minimal operational change, MagrowTec continues to prove its value to progressive growers like Hira Bhana & Co.
To see more about Hira Bhana’s results with MagrowTec spray technology, use this link, and scan the QR code on your mobile to learn more about the demo trailer, and how it can visit your farm operation.
Hira Bhana farm operation test results
