Trading near Chelmsford as FJ Bosworth and Sons, the successful diversification and herd expansion have put the business, first established in 1934, on a firm footing with a positive outlook for the future.

Jack said: “We currently farm 350ha of combinable crops with the main focus on growing both winter wheat and winter barley as feed for our 7,500-pig herd split across two sites in Essex and Norfolk.

“Running a competitive pig business is all about controlling feed and other key input costs. Milling and mixing our own grain for feed on farm has ensured the enterprise remains as competitive as possible and has certainly helped speed growth for us in this respect.”

The farmer added that about five years ago he also began looking into contract farming.

“There’s high demand in Essex for both umbilical application of slurry and digestate, along with an increased demand for specialist services such as Avadexing, overseeding and cover crop establishment, particularly from farms already under pressure through congested spring and autumn work windows, labour challenges and uptake in environmental stewardship schemes.”

Multicast’s versatility

Jack added that he has always been interested in buying a lightweight, multi-use applicator for the farm to reduce the reliance on contractors. This is why in September 2020 he invested in a new 12m Multicast 400 trailed unit from Techneat Engineering to run behind the farm’s John Deere UTV.

He said that the move gave his farming business more control during those busy work windows. The new applicator also opened up another revenue stream for the farm by offering key services to other farmers.

He continued: “The trailed unit comprises a 400l capacity tank along with a 12m manual folding boom, both mounted on a single axle trailer chassis that uses high-quality load-rated tyres and suspension units.

“Product is accurately applicated through the machine’s distribution head via a powerful Honda engine-driven fan unit to outlets spaced at 500mm intervals along the full width of the boom. Work rates are controlled and monitored via a cab-mounted GPS Garmin rate controller.

“The real beauty of the Multicast is its versatility. By simply changing the metering cartridge and recalibrating the application rate, you can broadcast grass seed, cover crops, granular fertiliser, Avadex granules or even slug pellets accurately and easily.”

Jack explained that the Multicast is very light, weighing less than 250kg, and can be used to perform different tasks simultaneously, reducing the number of passes and lowering fuel costs.

‘One of our best machinery investments’

In the last two autumns many farms in Essex have experienced very wet weather, making successful establishment of crops increasingly more challenging.

Farmers have also started to favour later autumn drilling in recent years, when ground conditions tend to be much heavier anyway, so using a very light machine, such as the Multicast 400, that is still able to travel in heavier soils without damaging the soil or a young, newly established crop is a major advantage, the farmer added.

“With shorter, dry weather windows, drilling decisions are also often made at the last minute, so with key tasks, such as Avadex application that requires a 48-hour window post-drilling to maximise its effectiveness. It’s critical for farmers to either have their own applicator or source a reliable, locally based contractor to ensure the task is carried out at the optimum time.

“Working at optimum speeds of 12-14 kph in good conditions, we can readily achieve up to 80ha of Avadex application or cover cropping per day, with the machines light footprint making it almost unnecessary to factor in whether customers are working on 24m, 28m, 30m, 32m or even 36m tramlines.

“Combining both the contracting work and our own use of the applicator, we’re now using the Multicast to apply product across 600ha of land per year, with additional capacity to increase that workload as the contracting business grows.

“In summary, the accuracy, quick calibration, easy setupand reliability of the Multicast have made it one of our best machinery investments in recent years. In terms of the economic benefits, we retain more money in the business each year by reducing our reliance on contractors and generate additional revenue from the contracting business.

“This brings a positive balance of circa £10,000 per year, comfortably justifying the setup we have. Overall, we’re delighted with the Multicast and would certainly look to go for the same machine again at renewal,” Jack concluded.

Read more machinery news.

The post Farming business grows aided by investment in Multicast 400 trailed applicator appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Climate change and rising operational costs are the two main impacts for innovative farming solutions and technological advancements in 2025. 

With increasing demand for sustainability and efficiency, leading suppliers and experts in the industry are pioneering advanced machinery and farming strategies designed to enhance productivity while ensuring economic viability for farmers.

Integrating sustainable farming 

Now more than ever, farmers are urged to consider using sustainable practices in their daily operations, with many farmers purchasing used farm machinery to support their sustainable farming practices. 

Studies suggest that around 68% of UK farmers are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint, which can be obtained through fuel efficient machinery. 

As technology becomes more accessible there are increasing options for farmers to combine this with their older machinery and improve efficiency.

Precision agriculture

A recent study suggests that 57% of UK farmers are now using precision agriculture techniques, such as GPS-guided machinery and soil sensors to optimise productivity and reduce waste. 

This statistic suggests that technological factors are helping farmers save time on certain aspects of their day-to-day life, allowing them to use that time for other projects and tasks. 

It also ensures that inputs can be applied more efficiently to reduce costs and increase yields.

Based on this, agricultural leaders are recognising the impact of farming solutions integrated into machinery and are giving farmers the opportunity to grow using modern technological advancements, allowing them to improve their farming operations.

READ MORE: Claas announces wider tractor range and precision farming upgrades

READ MORE: Horsch drill ranges updated

Overcoming cost-related challenges

Over the last five years, the cost of new agricultural equipment has risen by more than 30%, driving many farmers to look for more affordable solutions. 

One solution is to buy quality used machinery from a trustworthy source and combine it with new technology such as variable rate applications, enabling farmers to stay innovative without straining their budgets.

A recent survey found that 74% of farmers consider affordability a top priority when purchasing new equipment.

By offering high quality second-hand machinery that meets modern farming needs, AMTEC says it helps ensure that innovative solutions remain accessible to farms of all sizes.

Sustainable technological farming leap

In some applications technology and innovation are taken to another level.  

Last year, Dyson Farming, founded by Sir James Dyson, unveiled a 26-acre glasshouse in Lincolnshire, designed to produce 1,250 tonnes of strawberries annually, extending the British growing season and reducing reliance on imports. 

This state-of-the-art facility utilises renewable energy from an adjacent anaerobic digester, which powers the glasshouse and provides heat, creating optimal growing conditions year-round. 

Additionally, the integration of robotic harvesting technology has addressed labour shortages and enhances efficiency. 

These advancements not only contribute to sustainability by minimising food miles and carbon emissions but also demonstrate that investment in high-tech farming solutions can yield profitable outcomes. 

Whilst investments such as this will not be an option for many, incorporating technology and innovation in your farming enterprise to improve efficiency and profits should be a consideration for 2025.

According to the latest insights from AMTEC’s ‘New Vs Used Farming Machinery’ report, the purchasing price and condition of farming machinery is a top concern for over 50% of farmers when making machinery purchase decisions. 

Read more machinery news.

The post What are the latest farm machinery trends in 2025? appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Jon Wareing, managing director of Pecks, said that in response to increasing pressures in the market, the company’s team had to make “some difficult decisions to reinforce the business’ place as a leading supplier of agricultural machinery in the region”. 

He added: “The company’s board has been working hard behind the scenes to conduct a thorough review of the business to determine the best way to move forward. 

“We have since made the decision to move our Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire operations to a new central headquarters in Chatteris — leading to the eventual closure of our Spalding, Ramsey, and Ely sites. Our Rendlesham and Dereham depots remain unchanged. 

“The wellbeing of our staff is of utmost importance to us, and we are in close discussions with those affected. This decision was not made lightly but is essential to safeguard the future of the company.” 

‘Next phase of the business’

Mr Wareing added: “As we navigate this changing industry landscape, these proactive steps will ensure that Pecks remains at the forefront of agricultural machinery supply, strengthening our operations and enhancing service to our valued customers.” 

The company has confirmed that all of its outstanding orders will be fulfilled, and Pecks will continue to offer our customers the first-class service and parts backup throughout this transition and beyond. 

John Smith, managing director of JCB Agriculture, said: “G & J Peck provides industry-leading sales and aftersales support to our customers in the region, which this consolidation will reinforce.  

“We have a long-standing, successful relationship spanning more than 40 years of selling JCB Agriculture equipment.  

“We look forward to the opening of the new Chatteris depot and working together with G & J Peck in this next phase of their business.” 

An announcement is also set to be made in due course on G & J Peck’s distribution site in Lincolnshire. 

Read more machinery news. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by G & J Peck Ltd (@pecksagri)

The post G & J Peck announces opening of new HQ and closure of depots appeared first on Farmers Guide.

In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, the need for innovative and sustainable practices has never been more critical.

ACS Farm Image, a specialist in soil sampling and agricultural solutions, says it stands at the forefront of this transformation.

With over 20 years of experience, the company has consistently demonstrated a commitment to enhancing soil health and boosting crop yields, ensuring that farmers can meet the demands of a growing population.

One of the standout services offered by ACS Farm Image is its comprehensive soil sampling 
and analysis, the company explains.

By utilising GPS technology and precision soil sampling techniques, the company provides farmers with detailed insights into their soil’s nutrient profile.

This data-driven approach allows for targeted interventions, ensuring that crops receive the exact nutrients they need to thrive.

The result is not only healthier crops but also a more efficient use of resources, reducing waste and environmental impact.

Continuing growth in significance

Moreover, ACS Farm Image’s free to access, SoilSmart system, allows a user to log in, view their soil analysis results, create variable rate application files, access satellite data for variable rate N and upload yield maps.

The impact of ACS Farm Image’s work is evident in the testimonials from satisfied clients.

Farmers across the South East and beyond have praised the company’s professionalism, expertise, and the tangible improvements in their crop performance.

ACS Farm Image says it has proven to be an invaluable partner in modern agriculture.

As we look to the future, the role of companies like ACS Farm Image becomes even more significant, the business believes.

With the recent focus on soil health and the current SFI schemes available, climate change posing new challenges and the global population continuing to rise, sustainable agricultural practices are essential.

ACS Farm Image says its innovative solutions and unwavering dedication to soil health position it as a key player in this vital sector.

The company concludes: “ACS Farm Image exemplifies the best of agricultural innovation”.

Its commitment to precision, sustainability, and farmer success is a model for the industry.

As it continues to lead the way in soil health and crop productivity, it is not just supporting farmers – it is helping to secure the future of our food supply. 

Read more arable news.

The post Soil sampling – Innovations in soil health appeared first on Farmers Guide.

New Holland will again participate in World FIRA, an event for agricultural robotics and automation and meeting place for farmers, OEMs, start-ups, scientists, and investors to design the future of agriculture.

The event will take place from Tuesday 4^th to Thursday 6^th February 2025, in Toulouse, France.

At World FIRA 2025, New Holland will offer an insight into its latest advancements in precision farming and automation, designed to enhance grower productivity and sustainability.

Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the cutting-edge innovations that are shaping the future of farming.

New Holland’s AVAG on display

New Holland is working on solutions that make operators’ tasks less strenuous and help increase efficiency while reducing waste and soil pollution by creating synergies between tractors and “smart” implements.

At World FIRA, New Holland will display one of the innovation projects currently under development, AVAG for specialty tractors, a technology developed in-house, and that was recently recognised with an EIMA technical innovation award.

Currently in its testing phase, the system uses LiDAR vision technology combined with simultaneous localisation and mapping algorithms (in place of GPS), to autonomously steer both down the rows and at row ends, while simultaneously controlling the rear mounted implement.

This eliminates the risk of error and incidents resulting from any loss of signal caused by factors such as canopy coverage, netting, nearby greenhouses, or valley slopes.

With minimal to no human intervention, it allows less skilled operators to manage operations, as well as relieving more experienced growers of repetitive and arduous tasks, meaning they can focus on value added tasks such as ensuring optimal sprayer coverage and precise inter-row applications.

For more information about World FIRA 2025, please visit https://world-fira.com/

READ MORE: Machine of the year awards presented at LAMMA 2025

READ MORE: RVT expands New Holland territory with acquisition

Read more machinery news.

The post New Holland returns to World FIRA 2025 appeared first on Farmers Guide.

A highlight is the debut of the Phoenix, a 6m mounted stale seedbed preparation tool.

It features aggressive rake tines with BTT Max life tip coating for durability and a rubber tire packer for seed-to-soil consolidation.

Designed as a cost-effective alternative to trailed models, it prepares seedbeds efficiently between harvest and seeding. The Phoenix is FETF compliant for ‘FETF208 – Tractor mounted stubble rake 6m’.

The TSG-300 SP, launched in 2024, will make its second appearance. It caters to users favouring pneumatic seed delivery over traditional mechanical systems.

With a Sulky metering system, it matches the pulling force of its mechanical counterpart, requiring around 100hp for various applications such as pasture, cover crops, and low-trash arable work, making it ideal for mixed farming.

The Tremor, introduced earlier this year, will be displayed statically.

Visitors can explore its tine options and learn about its benefits for annual soil restructuring and addressing compaction layers.

Fentech Agri has equipped it with J.J. Metcalfe & Son Ltd’s NG system for precise depth control and minimal surface disturbance. Its front straight disc cracks hard crusts and minimises clod formation in dry conditions.

Stand number: Hall 18, Stand 370

Read more LAMMA 2025 news

Read more machinery news

The post New seedbed preparation tool is FETF compliant appeared first on Farmers Guide.

FJDynamics UK (FJD) is a global provider of precision agriculture solutions. By offering essential tools designed to streamline workflows and consistent precision, FJD says it helps to reduce inputs and increase productivity, ultimately enhancing profitability and efficiency of agricultural operations.

Electric autosteering systems

FJD provides two options for electric autosteering systems – AT1 and AT2 – which use electric motors to automate steering.

By reducing the need for manual control and providing precise guidance, these systems help to reduce labour costs, lower fuel consumption, and increase consistency in crop production. With these systems, FJD says you can deal with various working scenarios assisted by autosteering and positioning technologies, helping you achieve higher yields at lower costs. Key features include:

U-turn – Designed to seamlessly guide your tractor through smooth auto turns at the end of rows, it optimises manoeuvrability and ensures continuity in your day-to-day farming operations

Accuracy compensation – The autosteering systems support a wide range of speeds, from 0.1–26kph, to cater to various scenarios. It maintains an accuracy of 2.5cm to meet multiple farm demands, including working on a sloping terrain, executing low-speed tasks such as potato planting, and performing high-speed operations like crop protection and fertilising

The autosteer systems are useful for the majority of farming operations including cultivations, drilling, spraying and harvesting.

Hydraulic autosteering system

FJD also offers hydraulic autosteering solutions for those who prefer to keep their original steering wheel. The company says that by delivering outstanding automatic steering performance, its AHI hydraulic autosteer system boosts comfort and reduces fatigue, catering to different operator needs and preferences.

Integrating GNSS technology, the AH1 empowers agricultural machinery to effectively regulate steering oil, achieving 2.5cm steering accuracy.

Its robust force and quick responsiveness make it the perfect fit for large agricultural machinery that requires significant steering power, enhancing both accuracy and efficiency in field operations. Key features include:

Powerful steering for larger machinery – By directly and quickly driving the steering wheels through hydraulic power, AH1 is better suited for larger tractors and heavy-duty agricultural machinery

Enhanced steering efficiency – By keeping the steering wheel and steering column stationary during operation, the AH1 effectively minimises vibrations from rough terrain, ensuring precise and stable performance in uneven fields and high-speed modes

Wide compatibility – The AH1 is highly compatible with a wide range of agricultural machinery, including different tractor brands and heavy-duty equipment, and even those tractors whose steering wheels are difficult to remove

Terrain compensation – The AH1 maintains reliable accuracy even in challenging landscapes, including rolling terrains, slopes and rough ground.

Manual driving guidance system

In addition to the autosteering systems, FJD also offers a manual driving guidance system, providing decent path-planning functions at an “entry-level” price.

The AG1 manual guidance system integrates various positioning technologies (PPP RTK, SBAS), offering precise location accuracy of up to 2.5cm for manual steering and assisting users in staying on the planned path. With its simplified configuration and an entry-level price, it significantly boosts efficiency while keeping costs in check, providing a streamlined experience. Key features include:

Effortless installation – With only a guidance terminal and wirelessly connected GNSS receiver, you can effortlessly set it up and say goodbye to the hassle of a wired connection for a simplified, intuitive experience

Multiple accuracy solutions – In addition to general GNSS services, the system can deliver 10–20cm accuracy utilising PPP (Galileo and BeiDou supported) and 20–50cm accuracy by SBAS without the need for network or base station infrastructure. Additionally, exceptional positioning accuracy of 2.5cm can be achieved through RTK with network or base station

Isobus – With a wireless Isobus module, the system offers VT/TC capabilities, facilitating real-time monitoring and control of equipment. This streamlines essential tasks like seeding, fertilising and spraying, significantly boosting work efficiency and minimising waste

Versatile guidance lines – The AG1 offers a variety of guidance lines, including straight, curve, A+ line, pivot, and line group, catering to diverse field shapes and operational requirements, assisting operators in staying on the planned path.

Cambus for guidance-ready tractors has been newly released.

Visit the FJDynamics UK website for more information.

Read more arable news

The post Precision agriculture solutions boost efficiencies appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Nordelph-based farmer Richard Gott believes the Weed Wizard – a new, intelligent spot spraying system – has enabled him to reduce his post-emergence herbicide use by over 85% whilst simultaneously improving both the growth performance and agronomic quality of his onion crop via a more targeted approach to applying agrochemical inputs.

The new spraying system, manufactured and designed by Techneat Engineering and software specialist Tillett and Hague Technology Limited, was originally launched in 2023 and is aimed at farm contractors and growers of onions, leeks and carrots.

Richard says: “I’ve been growing onions successfully for over 20 years, but post emergence weed control has become a bigger challenge recently following the withdrawal of many key actives. Another major issue is that some of the chemicals that I’ve used to control very stubborn weeds, such as volunteer potatoes and thistles, also simultaneously knock back the growth of the onion crop.

“Alternative systems, such as hand roguing, are expensive and don’t completely eliminate crop damage to the onions closest to the weeds, so the best solution has to be a spot spraying system able to differentiate the weeds from the onion plants and target them accurately with selective herbicides.”

Testing accuracy

“After hearing about the launch of the Weed Wizard last year it was a no-brainer to trial the machine on this season’s crop to test its accuracy.

“Following the trial, which began on 13th June, I saw an immediate improvement on both the accuracy of individual weed targeting and overall level of weed control that an intelligent spraying system can offer. By only targeting the weeds, the growth of the onion crop is unimpeded allowing it to reach its optimum market size as quickly as possible.

“Using very high-speed, narrow jet nozzles spaced every 100mm across the full width of the boom, the Weed Wizard’s three-camera system identifies and tracks weeds as they come into view, applying a narrow flat fan spray onto each weed as it passes under each nozzle.

“Each high-definition camera tracks a single bed and is mounted directly above the crop row giving the machine the best possible overhead view of the weed population as each crop pass is made.

“Despite not having a tech background, I found the Weed Wizard relatively easy to set up and operator friendly,” he says.

Tom Neat, managing director of Techneat Engineering, adds: “Following a rigorous amount of on-going product development and on-farm trials we have recently added several specification upgrades to the Weed Wizard which include improved nozzle development using a flat-fan, narrow angled 15-degree nozzle for better chemical to weed contact.

“The machine’s boom height can now also be raised or lowered to specifically address the weed height that is being targeted, and this height flexibility gives the droplets of chemical more time to form, ensuring more chemical reaches the weeds. The large droplets produced by the narrow flat fan nozzles have little or no drift, resulting in the Weed Wizard’s application never being negatively influenced by wind, thus negating the need for a boom cover or shield which could potentially damage the crop.

“New high-definition cameras have improved the Weed Wizard’s weed recognition and a new upgraded software package now offers the operator enhanced levels of real-time feedback on the chemical treatment of each targeted weed. An improved side-shift system also offers the operator enhanced in-field vision when tracking the crop rows and a new hydraulic folding boom ensures easier transportation of the tractor-mounted machine between fields,” continues Mr Neat.

Substantial benefits

“The overall benefits of the Weed Wizard, both economic and agronomic, in not having to spray the whole crop are substantial, enabling farmers and contractors to significantly reduce their post-emergence herbicide use on carrots, onions and leeks.

There are now various types of productivity grants available to farmers for investment in both camera guided and robotic based systems, and the Weed Wizard certainly falls into this category, so I’d definitely advise any growers interested in spot spraying technology to apply,” Mr Neat concludes.

Read more arable news

The post New spot spraying upgrades enhance accuracy and control appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The manufacturer said that the machines, designed and manufactured in the UK, are set to revolutionise bale feeding, offering unparalleled performance, durability, and value. 

A company’s spokesperson said: “Blaney Agri isn’t just another machinery manufacturer. With nearly 30 years of in-house R&D, their bale unrollers are the result of relentless innovation and customer-driven improvements.  

“The Forager X10 has been a game-changer on farms worldwide, earning a reputation for being tough on bales but easy on the operator. 

“The Forager X10’s robust build handles all bale types—wet, misshapen, or tightly packed—effortlessly, making it the most versatile bale unroller on the market. Its unique features, such as the triple feed-out spikes, heavy-duty conveyor bars, and anti-wrap drive shafts, ensure that even the most challenging bales are no match for the X10. Farmers have reported up to 20% reduction in bale waste, translating into significant cost savings and better livestock gains.” 

A satisfied farmer added: “The Blaney Forager X10’s overall strength and quality of build stood out against the competition. It handles narrow passageways with ease, and its precision-engineered components ensure a longer lifespan. It’s simply the best investment I’ve made for my farm.” 

Customer-first approach  

Sean Blaney, founder and chief engineer of the Blaney Group, emphasised the importance of this customer-first approach: “Listening to our customers is at the heart of everything we do. Their insights guide us in developing products that truly meet their needs and exceed their expectations.” 

This approach has been key to the success of products like the Forager X10, which was developed based on the challenges faced by farmers. 

The X10, along with other innovative products from Blaney Agri, continues to set the standard for performance and reliability in the agricultural machinery market, the company said. 

Numerous choices 

Blaney Agri spokesperson said that the Forager X10 was designed for maximum efficiency. 

“This bale unroller offers a one-man, one-tractor operation that feeds out silage in seconds. Its compact design is perfect for navigating tight spaces, and its ability to feed out both sides ensures that every bale is used to its fullest potential.” 

“Bale Feeder X6 is set to be ideal for those who do not require all the advanced features of the X10, the X6 delivers high-spec performance at an accessible price point.  

“It’s perfect for feeding round bales in favourable conditions, offering a fast, effective solution that saves time and reduces wastage,” they confirmed. 

Join the #BlaneyCommunity 

Blaney Agri spokesperson added: “Blaney Agri is more than just a brand; it’s a community of farmers and agricultural professionals who share a commitment to innovation and excellence.  

“Join their journey as they continue to revolutionise the industry with customer-driven solutions. Stay connected with the latest updates and share your experiences by following the #BlaneyCommunity on social media. 

“Don’t miss out on these incredible pre-season savings. Contact Blaney Agri today to find your nearest participating dealer and experience the difference that UK-built quality can make on your farm. Call 028 2587 2801 or visit www.blaneyagri.com.” 

Read more machinery news. 

The post Blaney Agri launches its latest pre-season offer on Forager X10 and Bale Feeder X6 bale unrollers appeared first on Farmers Guide.

A recent episode of Countryfile which first aired on 7th July 2024 saw Adam Henson travelling to a farm in the Cotswolds to see how an experimental technology could potentially change how he farms his own land.

During the episode, Mr Henson commented that while tractors are essential for any arable farm, and incredible versatile – they can run pretty much any piece of kit you need to grow crops – they’re not cheap to purchase or run. Plus their weight means you need to keep them off wet ground to protect the soil structure.

Mr Henson chatted to Rob Pearson of Auto Spray Systems during the programme, to see if the drones he’s been working with could be useful on-farm.

The drone featured within the episode can carry 50kg of liquid or granular fertiliser, or seed. Mr Pearson explained that he’s used it primarily for cover cropping and intersowing, but also for nematodes onto forestry applications.

However, pointed out Mr Pearson, drones are not designed to compete directly with tractors – but rather, are ideal for hilly or tricky terrain, or when you need to apply seeds, fertilisers or slug pellets when the land is too wet to travel on.

The drone has to be calibrated, and the field GPS-mapped either by drawing it on, or by linking in with the farm’s pre-set mapping system.

By law, the operator has to be within 500m at all times, and have line of sight in case of malfunction.

It travels at around 24kph – covering around 15-20ha per hour – and is calibrated to spread the seed at a specified rate.

By planting the cover crop before harvest, it should establish an understory below the cash crop, meaning there is no bare soil post-harvest and improving soil health.

Case study: Eves Hill Farm, Norfolk

Eves Hill Farm is run by Jeremy Buxton, a third-generation farmer, alongside his wife Kathryn Buxton, and their young son Edward.

Jeremy followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, who bought the farm in the 1960s, and his father. A passion for regenerative farming and producing high quality food for the local community has seen many changes on the farm in the management and farming practices. Jeremy is determined to farm in a manner that regenerates the soils and biodiversity on the farm whilst helping to prevent climate change.

According to Mr Buxton: “Eves Hill Farm is a 100ha mixed farming business. We farm using principles of regenerative agriculture to improve the levels of biodiversity on the farm, and sequester carbon into the soil.

“It is our strong belief that farmers can help save the planet, and this concept is built into the running of the farm and indeed, of the whole of our business. We believe that by focusing on regenerating our soils we can produce healthy plants and livestock and in turn produce nutrient dense food which nourishes our customers.”

Mr Buxton hired Auto Spray Systems and the XAG P100 40,000lb drone to broadcast a diverse, grazable cover crop from Cotswolds Seeds.

Containing tillage radish, mustard, berseem clover, crimson clover, fodder radish, forage rape, stubble turnips and phacelia, Mr Buxton says he worked closely with Cotswolds Seeds to get what he felt was the right mix in term of what the drone could handle in regards to seed size, as well as selecting seed that was suitable for dropping into a standing crop – for example, seed with a really hard casing wouldn’t work as well in this context, when broadcasting onto the surface rather than drilling.

The idea is to not apply the seed more than three weeks pre-harvest, and Mr Buxton was hopeful that the timing was just about right.

When asked why he decided to get a drone involved, Mr Buxton explained: “I thought that in our context as a regenerative farm, it just ticks all the boxes – with the drone causing no soil disturbance, no soil compaction, no negative impact on the land, and critically having that living root in the ground all the time.

“Even before we terminate the barley crop, there will already be a cover crop in the ground and rooting, so in terms of soil biology and soil structure, it’s definitely ticking that box.”

The intention is to graze the post-barley cover crop – but Mr Buxton says it very much depends on how much biomass is there, how it has established, and the weather conditions. In their rotations they have a lot of herbal leys and permanent grazing, so they only graze when the conditions are right.

Before they began spreading, Mr Buxton sent Auto Spray Systems his own field map, which his contractor generated using the Omnia software by Hutchinsons, and they used this to set a GPS-based grid for the drone to follow autonomously. While there are benefits to drones, current restrictions mean they cannot be used to spray pesticides that farmers would typically use; however, Mr Pearson commented that he hopes to see this change within the next 18 months. 

But is this the future of farming? Jeremy Buxton says yes, in the right context. “It has to suit your farming system, but there is potentially multiple uses for drones moving forward,” he concludes.

Read more arable news

The post Complementing traditional farming methods with drones appeared first on Farmers Guide.