Agmatix BASF Partner to develop Soybean Cyst Nematode detection tool. (Image source: BASF)

Leading AI-powered solutions provider, Agmatix recently announced a strategic collaboration with BASF, one of the world’s largest chemical and agricultural solutions companies, to develop a cutting-edge digital solution aimed at detecting and predicting the presence of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) 

The collaboration began through AgroStart, an open innovation and partnership platform by BASF, that aims to empower soybean growers with real-time, scalable insights to mitigate yield losses caused by SCN, one of the most damaging and often invisible soybean pests. Axiom, an advanced AI technology engine developed by Agmatix is the core of this initiative. It transforms vast amounts of raw agronomic data into highly standardised and enriched datasets. This rigorous data process enables the development of a robust machine-learning model capable of detecting and predicting SCN infestations with unprecedented accuracy and scalability.

Developed through AgroStart by BASF, this initiative combines Agmatix’s AI-driven agronomic platform with the deep expertise of BASF in seed and crop protection solutions and will foster the development of a scalable, user-friendly digital model. The tool will integrate with existing farm management practices, enabling users to access near real-time SCN risk assessments and tailor their pest management strategies accordingly.

SCN remains the leading pest in soybeans, with infestations frequently going undetected until yields are significantly affected. Traditional detection methods, such as soil sampling or mid-season root digs, are time-consuming, labour-intensive and not widely adopted. A digital tool could help create awareness and compliment these traditional methods.

By providing accurate, predictive data on SCN infestations, the Agmatix-BASF collaboration paves the way for future innovations in pest management and digital agriculture. The joint effort represents a significant leap forward in integrating digital agriculture with crop protection strategies, demonstrating how advanced analytics can drive on-farm decision-making and improve agronomic outcomes.

“Our collaboration with BASF is driven by the urgent need to provide a practical, data-backed tool that helps growers minimise yield losses caused by SCN,” added Ron Baruchi, president & CEO at Agmatix. “By digitising large volumes of field trial data within Axiom, we believe our machine learning model will give growers the power to act before SCN causes irreversible damage.”

The technology is designed for simple and efficient application, at speeds of up to 25 mph. (Image source: CNH)

Case IH recently launched the new SenseApply technology, purposefully designed to maximise the output of every input

Comprising a single cab-mounted camera system, the technology is an economical and adaptable automated Live variable rate application solution that offers multi-season uses for unmatched versatility and productivity without compromising quality or functionality. It has various multi-application uses including:

• Selective spray: This includes a one-time activation fee eliminating both per acre fees and annual fees for the life of the device. It offers two options – the Green-on-Brown Spot Spray offering upgraded weed management and the Base + Boost option that applies a consistent base rate over the entire boom while boosting individual nozzle sections to a higher rate when passing over areas with higher weed pressure.
• Live Variable Rate Application (VRA): This includes lifetime Live VRA use and offers five options – Burndown VRA, Nitrogen VRA, Harvest Aid VRA, Plant Growth Regulator VRA and Fungicide VRA. 

The technology is designed for simple and efficient application, at speeds of up to 25 mph, with the camera self-calibrating to the crop within the first 150 ft during Live VRA. The SenseApply camera – which is mounted on top of the cab to maximise field of view – senses plant biomass and responds accordingly, depending on the application type the operator selected.   

SenseApply also integrates with Case IH FieldOps and Raven Slingshot, enabling operators to connect and manage application data through their preferred platform. This integration increases overall operator efficiencies by providing real-time data analysis and decision-making capabilities, while making it easier to align with agronomist recommendations. The technology's multi-purpose functionality enables operators to use it throughout the year irrespective of the seasons. 

“SenseApply offers unparalleled flexibility, with a range of application methods that were previously unavailable in a single solution,” said application equipment customer segmentation lead at Case IH, Leo Bose. “It is also a cost-effective solution with no annual subscriptions or per acre fees, driving efficiency and profitability for a grower.” 

Through AGRIMAX SPARGO SB, BKT aims to offer farmers an advanced solution that addresses the specific challenges of row crops and spraying operations. (Image source: BKT)

To meet the needs of farmers and professionals managing vineyards and orchards characterised by steep terrain and narrow spacing, BKT has come up with the AGRIMAX SPARGO SB, an extended version of the AGRIMAX SPARGO 

This tire combines the advantages of radial agricultural tires, namely lower fuel consumption, comfort, and handling with a wider footprint and excellent traction. The AGRIMAX SPARGO features VF technology and was designed to ensure a constant load by reducing inflation pressure compared to a standard tire. The new version complements this product range for open field spraying, row crops, orchards and vineyards. 

The new steel-belted pattern distinguishes itself by an increased tread depth and more slender lugs, resulting in an overall more open and taller tread pattern. This configuration provides excellent handling on the road and a D-class speed rating enabling speeds of up to 65 kmph. A strategic advantage for modern farmers who need to move quickly between fields and supply points, optimising time and increasing operational efficiency. 

One of its distinctive features is the dual-layer mud ejection system, designed to effectively remove debris from the tread and ensure a quick transition from field to road without accumulating dirt. With safety and comfort remaining top priorities, the tire provides a smooth and stable ride, reducing operator fatigue and ensuring a predictable response in all conditions. This new tire also features a specially designed sidewall design to reduce vibration, which improves the comfort during precision spraying operations, where operator comfort and precision are indeed paramount.

"In the case of the AGRIMAX SPARGO SB, we have paid special attention to the casing design by using a strong polyester structure that offers greater strength, flexibility and durability than traditional materials," said senior president & director Technology at BKT, Dilip Vaidya. "This choice enables the tire to handle heavy loads while keeping deformation under control, improving the footprint and thus traction, stability, and handling."

CultiWise is an advanced farm software from Czech startup Skymaps, which allows farmers to generate high-precision 'prescription maps' within hours using the entry-level CultiWise drone. (Image source: CultWise)

The new CultiWise software offers cost savings and yield benefits of upto 20%, along with a return on investment in the first season

In comparison to satellite images which are weather-dependant, drone images are more reliable, and offer precise maps for variable rate application of fertiliser, fungicide and growth regulator. Farmers often rely on satellite images to programme spraying equipment to apply the required amount of fertiliser, fungicide and plant growth regulator. This variable rate application targets particular crop zones, but cloudy conditions could delay critical decisions that could ultimately affect yield. This is where the new CultiWise drone comes handy.

CultiWise is an advanced farm software from Czech startup Skymaps, which allows farmers to generate high-precision 'prescription maps' within hours using the entry-level CultiWise drone. The software was developed by a team of 25 CultWise engineers by applying data from hundreds of European farms, ranging from small-scale to 30,000 ha. It enables farmers from anywhere in the world to upload drone images in preparation for imminent spraying or spreading. Prescription maps are produced within minutes to hours and help in pinpointing the zones that require different amounts of fertiliser, fungicide or plant growth regulator. The maps also inform the farmer of the expected volume savings.

Capable of mapping more than 200 ha per flight hour, the new compact CultiWise drone, which complements the software feature, offers not only speed but also centimeter-level accuracy, a requirement when targeting particular crop zones. Farmers cangenerate and upload images using either multispectral or RGB drone cameras. CultiWise offers a range of solutions, including prescription maps for spot spraying, crop monitoring, plant counting, and yield potential maps. 

In regard to spot-spraying, also known as variable rate application, the precise spraying process ideally depends on the accuracy of the prescription maps that apportion crop protection and pesticides. With access to detailed field data provided as maps, the spraying equipment automatically adjusts the nozzles to apply the right amount of fertiliser, fungicide, or plant growth regulator. The system supports all main crops, including corn, winter wheat, soybean, sugar beet, sunflower, rape seed, potatoes and onions.

“Our prescription maps derived from drones delivers reliable instructions and this will result in reduced pesticide and fertiliser use and therefore lower costs," stated Chief Technology Officer at Skymaps, Kornel Cziria. "Unlike conventional spraying, where all crops are sprayed with the same volume, with this method we change the amount in strong and weak crop zones. This results in cost savings and higher yields,” added Cziria.