Innovation provides a jump-start to crops

ELDERS in conjunction with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and degradable technology company OneCrop are commercialising the first biodegradable plastic film of its kind – providing a unique microclimate for new cotton crops.

The thin plastic film, OneCrop, works by trapping heat from sunlight, raising soil temperatures significantly and improving establishment before breaking down prior to harvesting cotton.

Elders senior agronomist Heath McWhirter said the product demonstrated strong results and had great potential for clients, particularly in areas with low temperatures at the time of sowing.

Product development began in 2012 and has since been trialled by cotton growers and researchers across Australia.

Based on grower feedback, prototypes were refined based on the needs of the farm and the conditions found across properties. The result has helped mitigated replant risk, improved early crop vigour, conserved moisture and resulted in improved yields.

OneCrop director David McGrath said the collaboration and the thorough testing process had allowed them to significantly benefit growers’ crop production efforts.

“Growers across many cotton growing regions planted commercial scale trials in 2016 with significant results,” Mr McGrath said.

“Despite cold and wet conditions at time of planting making establishment difficult, none of the cotton planted with the Techni-Plant FL were replanted, showing the feasibility of the technology in giving crops the best possible start.”

Elders technical services manager Graham Page said the technology demonstrated focus on collaboration with industry to develop innovative solutions for clients.