In a significant development for organic farming, French manufacturer Bionalan has launched a pilot series of its innovative Tig’air weeder, with the first units already operational in the Netherlands. This new weeding technology promises to tackle one of the most challenging aspects of organic crop management—weed control—particularly in crops like organic red beets, where manual removal is often impractical.
The Tig’air weeder employs a unique mechanism that sets it apart from conventional weeders. It features a rotating reel that engages with two small powered rollers, effectively catching weeds that grow above the crop. This design allows the machine to pull weeds out of the ground and deposit them loosely atop the crop, a method that minimizes soil disturbance and reduces the chances of weed regrowth. During a recent demonstration, Future Farming observed the Tig’air in action on organic red beet fields, where the prevalence of weeds can be overwhelming.
The effectiveness of the Tig’air weeder largely depends on several factors, including the type of weed, its size, and the soil conditions. For instance, the weeder performs optimally on moist clay soil, which was evident during the demo when the machine pulled out more weeds from recently irrigated fields compared to dry, hard soil. This correlation is logical; if weeds are hard to remove by hand, the machine will face similar challenges. However, when conditions are right and the weeder can grip the weeds effectively, it has demonstrated the ability to uproot significant clumps of lamb’s quarters and thistles, ensuring minimal chance of regrowth.
Operating at a speed of 2 to 4 kilometers per hour, the Tig’air weeder requires a relatively low power input, making it accessible for many farmers. The tractor used to power the machine needs to weigh at least 1,650 kg to maintain balance, with a 100-horsepower 4-cylinder engine being sufficient to handle the weeder’s demands. This design allows farmers to efficiently manage their fields without the need for heavy machinery that can lead to soil compaction.
Bionalan, a family-owned business founded in 2013 by Alain Bon, a former arable farmer and contractor, has focused its efforts on developing machines tailored specifically for organic farming. This practical approach to machine development ensures that the Tig’air weeder meets the real-world challenges faced by organic farmers. Agribiosolutions serves as the importer for the Netherlands and Belgium, having already delivered several units from the pilot series this year. They also provide a demo machine that has been tested on various crops, allowing farmers to see the technology in action before making a purchase.
The pricing for the Tig’air weeder starts at €21,250 for the 3-meter version, while a larger 6-meter hydraulically foldable model is available for €42,500. This investment could prove invaluable for organic farmers looking to streamline their weeding processes and reduce labor costs associated with manual weed removal.
As the agricultural sector increasingly shifts towards sustainable practices, innovations like the Tig’air weeder are vital. They not only enhance operational efficiency but also support the principles of organic farming by minimizing soil disturbance and promoting healthier crop growth. The introduction of this technology could mark a turning point for organic farmers struggling with weed management, ultimately contributing to more productive and sustainable agricultural practices.