Never want to pay $12 for a lettuce again? Then read on, my friend.
Salad Table is an innovative new product that takes the hard work out of gardening and delivers fresh, healthy home-grown fruit and veggies. Seeds are dropped into channels filled with grow medium and then fed with nutrient on a table that can be set up just about anywhere and with the minimum of fuss. There is a size to fit every household – even a compact tower grower that can be placed on apartment balconies.
Inventor Denis Matthews was working in the Airforce and running a business when he decided to fill his “spare time” by giving hobby farming a go. Each week he would load up his truck with produce and head to the Farmers Markets, but he became disenchanted with the process, knowing that his beautiful fresh food would change hands several times and lose its vitality long before reaching the consumers plate, and at ridiculously jacked up prices.
So, using the principles of farming, Denis invented the Salad Table, a complete growing system that requires a minimum of water and no nasty chemicals. Chuffed with the end product, Denis took the tables to the markets to sell alongside his produce – and they sold like hotcakes!
Anyone can grow their own food using the Salad Table – from the novice gardener to the green thumb. Those that love nothing more than getting their hands dirty are thrilled that they don’t need to break their backs bending to tend to their seedlings – and that there is never a weed in sight! For the novice or the not so enthusiastic gardener the fact that it doesn’t take up too much time is the appeal. And everyone loves the money they save and the fact that they know what has (not been) sprayed on their fruit and veggies. The Salad Table can also be a great family project that brings parents and kids together in a fun activity, often with the result that proud kids eat their veggies without complaint for the first time in their lives.
Denis’ goal in life is to “Create the Farmer in Everyone”. He aims to introduce gardening to as many young people as possible through Salad Table. He believes that giving children ownership from the very start, the planting of the seed, increases their learning on how to grow for themselves.
Denis believes that anyone can have success with the Salad Table. All it takes is a little bit of trial and error and, if in doubt, referring to Salad Table’s Youtube videos and Instagram, which cover a gamut of topics from recipes for bug killers to assembly instructions for the table. Salad Table even has a Facebook group where growers can ask questions and solve issues they might be having with their grow.
Fruit, vegetables and even vines can be grown in the salad table. Denis loves to see his customers experiment and to receive feedback and photos on their crops. Sometimes he has never heard of the vegetable before! One of the most interesting grows that Denis has seen was pumpkins and watermelons that ended up growing on the ground underneath the Salad Table but still getting their nutrients from the system.
The feedback of Salad Table’s customers speak for themselves. One grower had never been able to grow bok choy, but now has a year round crop. Another has not bought lettuce for a year. More than one happy customer has grown so much produce that they are the most popular resident in their street, giving their excess fruit and veggies to their neighbours.
The Salad Table is the way of the future. Environmentally friendly, it is the perfect solution to rising food prices, lack of land and environmental factors like flooding. The table is already sold throughout Australia – and the next step is the world!
To find out more about this innovative product visit thesaladtable.com.au.


Grain Silos and Storage System Market is expected to project a notable CAGR of 4.5% in 2030.
Global Grain Silos and Storage System Market Research Report Size,Share,Growth,Trends and Forecast provides an deep analysis of the Grain Silos and Storage System Market including detailed description of market sizing and growth, value, the key opportunities in the Grain Silos and Storage System Market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth of the industry taking into consideration the previous growth patterns with Forecast Period 2021-2030.
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The Grain Silos and Storage System Market report provides insight into main drivers, challenges, opportunities and risk of the market and strategies of suppliers. Key players are profiled as well with their market shares in the global Grain Silos and Storage System Market discussed. Overall, this report covers the historical situation, present status and the future prospects.Additionally, the worldwide market is segmented based on type, application, deals, and area. It contains numbers, regions, revenue, and offers just as the thorough computation of the business chain structure, opportunities, industry news analysis. The application portion shows the employments of the product.
The Grain Silos and Storage System Market report also covers a detailed comprehension of the major geographies present in the market along with the key segments and sub-segments. The report focuses on regional development status, which includes the market size, share, and volume.
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About Grain Silos and Storage System Market:
Grain Silos and Storage System Market: Market Segments: By Type (Flat bottom silos, Hopper silos, Grains bins and Other); By commodity type (Rice, Maize, Wheat, Soybean, Sunflower and Other); and Region Global Analysis by Market Size, Share & Trends for 2014 2020 and Forecasts to 2030
Silos also perform the post-harvest management role as they act as collectors and distribution units of grain. Silos control the purpose of initial grain processing by drying, fumigating and cleaning grains in order to protect the grains. All these functions allow the demand for storage systems to expand in an upward direction of fashion.
Grain Silos and Storage System Market is expected to project a notable CAGR of 4.5% in 2030.
Grain Silos and Storage System Market to surpass USD 3.4 billion by 2030 from USD 1.2 billion in 2019 at a CAGR of 4.5% throughout the forecast period, i.e., 2020-30. Farmers in developing and developed regions are investing in the set-up of silos which help to facilitate the storage of grains and which can be stored for a longer period of time under appropriate conditions, irrespective of the external weather conditions, which are some of the factors driving the growth of the market.
Grain Silos and Storage System Market: Segments
Flat bottom silos segment to grow with the highest CAGR during 2020-30
Grain Silos and Storage System Market is segmented by type into hopper silos, flat bottom silos, grain bins, and other silos type. Grain bins-based Grain Silos and Storage System, led the market in 2019, accounting for XX.X% of market share. The grain bins are built as vented, silver, and corrugated steel-structured containers provided in different heights that have a greater diameter than silos.
Grain Silos and Storage System Market: Market Dynamics
Increasing Demand for Large Capacity and Cost-Effective Grain Storage
Increasing demand for grain storage from the world’s leading grain-producing countries, namely the United States, Russia, India, Brazil, and others has driven the grain storage silos market. In addition, increasing input costs and the need for heavy investment in grain storage have led to an increase in demand for silos in all regions. Thanks to the automation of grain transport, silos are cost-effective grain storage types, resulting in low operational costs in the long run.
High initial investments
Smallholder farmers in all regions of the world form the bulk of the increasing population. In order to generate high yields, they are devoid of suitable resources and facilities. The value of effective storage and maintenance of high-quality grains produced is increasingly unknown to these farmers.
Grain Silos and Storage System Market: Key Players
Company Overview, Business Strategy, Key Product Offerings, Financial Performance, Key Performance Indicators, Risk Analysis, Recent Development, Regional Presence and SWOT Analysis.
Titan (FB Industries Inc.)
Superior Silo LLC
Sioux Steel Company
Hanson Silo Company
P+W Metallbau GmbH & Co. KG
Grain Silos and Storage System Market: Regions
Grain Silos and Storage System Market is segmented based on regional analysis into five major regions. These include North America, Latin America, Europe, APAC and MENA.
Grain Silos and Storage System Market in Asia Pacific held the largest market share of XX.X% in the year 2019. The demand for grain silos & storage systems in Asia Pacific is projected to rise at the highest CAGR. With the presence of densely populated countries such as China and India, one of the main markets for grain silos and storage systems is expected to be the Asia Pacific region. The growing population and increasing income levels of the area are factors that are expected to drive demand for food and agricultural commodities in the coming years. On the other hand, because of urbanization, the area has limited arable land, insufficient water, low farm yields, and increased soil degradation conditions. China and India are ranked first and second at the global level in terms of rice and wheat production.
Grain Silos and Storage System Market report also contains analysis on:
Grain Silos and Storage System Market Segments:
Flat bottom silos
By commodity type:
Grain Silos and Storage System Market Dynamics
Grain Silos and Storage System Market Size
Supply & Demand
Competition & Companies Involved in the Market
Value Chain of the Market
Market Drivers and Restraints
FAQs on Grain Silos and Storage System Market
Which segment is anticipated to hold the largest market share?
At what CAGR is the market anticipated to grow between 2020 and 2030?
Who are the key players in the Grain Silos and Storage System Market?
What could be the challenging factors in the growth of Grain Silos and Storage System Market?
What are the growth drivers for the Grain Silos and Storage System Market?
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This report provides detail analysis of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Grain Silos and Storage System market and its commercial landscape. Learn about the various market strategies that are being adopted by leading companies.It provides a five-year forecast assessed based on how the Grain Silos and Storage System market is predicted to grow.It provides insightful analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitors.To understand the future scope and outlooks for the Grain Silos and Storage System market.Grain Silos and Storage System Market Forecast by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2021.Grain Silos and Storage System Market Share, distributors, major suppliers, changing price patterns and the supply chain of raw materials is highlighted in the report.
Lastly, this report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years, the Report also brief deals with the product life cycle, comparing it to the relevant products from across industries that had already been commercialized details the potential for various applications, discussing about recent product innovations and gives an overview on potential regional market shares.
Detailed TOC of Global Grain Silos and Storage System Market Outlook to 2030
2.Grain Silos and Storage System Market
2.1. Product Overview
2.2. Market Definition
2.4. Assumptions and Acronyms
3. Research Methodology
3.1. Research Objectives
3.2. Primary Research
3.3. Secondary Research
3.4. Forecast Model
3.5. Market Size Estimation
4.Average Pricing Analysis
5. Macro-Economic Indicators
6.1. Growth Drivers
7.Correlation & Regression Analysis
7.1. Correlation Matrix
7.2. Regression Matrix
8.Recent Development, Policies & Regulatory Landscape
9. Risk Analysis
9.1. Demand Risk Analysis
9.2. Supply Risk Analysis
10.Grain Silos and Storage System Analysis
10.1. Porters Five Forces
10.1.1. Threat of New Entrants
10.1.2. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
10.1.3. Threat of Substitutes
10.2. PEST Analysis
11 Grain Silos and Storage System Market
11.1. Market Size & forecast, 2019A-2030F
11.1.1. By Value (USD Million) 2019-2030F; Y-o-Y Growth (%) 2020-2030F
11.1.2. By Volume (Million Units) 2019-2030F; Y-o-Y Growth (%) 2020-2030F
12.Grain Silos and Storage System: Market Segmentation
12.1. By Regions
13. Company Profile
13.1.2. Company Overview
13.1.3. Company Total Revenue (Financials)
13.1.4. Market Potential
13.1.5. Global Presence
13.1.6. Key Performance Indicators
13.1.7. SWOT Analysis
13.1.8. Product Launch
14. Consultant Recommendation
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A Combine is used to harvest Wheat. It needs to be powered by a BuildCraft compatible engine. It will harvest any mature wheat with in range of 21x10x21 (X-Y-Z) as well as any seeds that may drop. Wheat is automatically ejected into Buildcraft Pipes connected to the sides. Seeds are automatically ejected into Buildcraft Pipes connected to the top or bottom. Items can also be automatically placed into adjacent chests.


The debate between artificial turf and natural grass for athletic fields has been ongoing for decades. Both sides of the argument have their advantages and disadvantages, but which type of field is best for athletes? In this comparative analysis, we will discuss the differences between artificial turf and natural grass, examining the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each in order to determine the best choice for athletic fields.
What is Athletic Field Artificial Turf?
Athletic field artificial turf is a synthetic surface made of synthetic fibers that mimic natural grass. It is most commonly used in sports venues and other areas that require a durable and low-maintenance surface. Athletic field artificial turf is resistant to wear and tear, can withstand heavy traffic and requires minimal maintenance. It is also more cost-effective than natural grass, making it an attractive option for many sports teams and organizations.
What is Natural Grass?
Natural grass refers to grass that is grown in its natural environment, rather than being artificially cultivated or maintained. This can include a variety of different types of grass, such as fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass. Natural grass is typically used for landscaping, turf, and sports fields. It requires regular maintenance, such as watering, fertilizing, and mowing, in order to stay healthy and maintain its appearance. Additionally, natural grass can also be used for grazing livestock, and forage for wildlife.
Benefits of Artificial Turf
Artificial turf has become increasingly popular for both commercial and residential applications due to its many benefits. Artificial turf is composed of synthetic fibers that are designed to resemble natural grass. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf does not require fertilizers, pesticides, or routine maintenance, making it a great option for those looking for a low-maintenance landscape solution. Here are some of the top benefits of artificial turf:
Artificial turf is designed to be low maintenance and only requires occasional brushing and rinsing to keep it looking its best. This low maintenance makes it ideal for those who do not have time to maintain a natural grass lawn.
Artificial turf is designed to be durable and can last up to 20 years with proper care. This makes it a great long-term investment for those looking to spruce up their landscape.
Artificial turf can provide a safe and soft surface for children and pets to play on. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf does not contain any chemicals, making it a safe and healthy choice.
Artificial turf does not require the use of water, which makes it an environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, artificial turf does not require fertilizers or pesticides, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Artificial turf can save homeowners money in the long run as it does not require the same level of upkeep as natural grass. Additionally, artificial turf can also help reduce water bills as it does not require water to stay green and healthy.
These are just a few of the many benefits of artificial turf. Artificial turf is an ideal choice for those looking for a low-maintenance landscape solution that still looks great.
Benefits of Natural Grass
Natural grass is one of the most beautiful, versatile, and sustainable landscaping options for your outdoor space. From providing a lush and vibrant aesthetic to acting as a natural air purifier, there are many benefits of natural grass.
Natural grass is a great way to add color, texture, and life to any outdoor space. A well-manicured lawn gives an outdoor area an inviting and peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
Natural grass helps to absorb noise, making your outdoor space a more tranquil place. This is especially beneficial for those living in urban areas or near busy roads and highways.
Natural grass helps to reduce air pollution by releasing oxygen into the air. It also helps to filter and trap dust and other pollutants, making it a great way to improve air quality.
Natural grass helps to keep the soil healthy and fertile by promoting water absorption and slowing erosion.
Natural grass acts as a great habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife. This is especially beneficial for those who are looking to attract beneficial pollinators to their outdoor space.
Natural grass helps to keep outdoor temperatures cooler by providing shade and reducing the amount of direct sunlight. This is especially beneficial for those living in hot climates.
Natural grass helps to conserve water by reducing the amount of water needed for irrigation. It also helps to filter and absorb rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding.
Natural grass is a great way to enhance your outdoor space while providing long-term benefits to your home and the environment. With proper maintenance, natural grass can provide years of beauty and function.
Natural Grass and Artificial Turf Drawbacks
Natural grass has long been the preferred surface for sports fields, golf courses, and other outdoor activities. It has a natural, inviting look and feels that many people find appealing. However, natural grass has its drawbacks. It is labor-intensive to maintain, requiring mowing, fertilizing, aerating, and more. It is also vulnerable to damage from overuse, weather, and pests, requiring frequent repairs and replacements.
Artificial turf, on the other hand, is becoming an increasingly popular option for sports fields and other outdoor surfaces. It is low maintenance and relatively durable, and is often more cost-effective in the long term than natural grass. However, artificial turf has some drawbacks as well. For example, it can become very hot on sunny days, making it uncomfortable to play on. Artificial turf is also not as natural looking as natural grass and can be more abrasive on the skin, which can lead to increased injuries. Additionally, some studies have shown that artificial turf can contain potentially harmful chemicals like lead and zinc.
Natural Grass vs Artificial Turf
The debate over natural grass and artificial turf has been going on for a long time. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two is a personal preference for many. Artificial turf is becoming increasingly popular, but it is important to understand the differences between the two surfaces before making a decision.
Natural grass is composed of living plants that require regular maintenance such as mowing, fertilizing, and watering. This makes it costlier to maintain than artificial turf, but it is also considered to be softer and more natural-looking. Natural grass also has a tendency to become patchy over time, which can affect the playability of the surface.
On the other hand, artificial turf is made of synthetic materials such as nylon and polypropylene. This means that it does not require regular maintenance and is more durable than natural grass. Additionally, artificial turf does not become patchy and is easier to maintain. However, it is not as soft as natural grass and some people find it to be less aesthetically pleasing. In the end, the decision between natural grass and artificial turf comes down to personal preference. There are pros and cons to both surfaces, and it is important to understand the differences before making a decision.
In conclusion, both artificial turf and natural grass have their own unique characteristics that make them viable options for athletic fields. Artificial turf is a more durable and cost-effective surface, however, it does not provide the same level of cushioning as natural grass. Natural grass provides a more natural playing surface and is able to withstand heavy use, but it requires more maintenance and is more susceptible to weather damage. Ultimately, the choice of which surface to use should be determined by the individual needs of the facility.
At Ruff N Tuff Turf, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible artificial turf options. We have a wide variety of synthetic surfaces that are perfect for any athletic field, and our experienced team is available to help you choose the perfect option for your facility. And don’t forget that our installation services are available, so you can get your synthetic turf installed quickly and easily. If you are looking for the best artificial turf in the market, then you should definitely contact Ruff N Tuff Turf.


A very commonly used term when discussing irrigation or landscape is evapotranspiration (or ET for short).
What is evapotranspiration?
Evapotranspiration is the sum of water lost from the soil surface and plant foliage (evaporation) and water used by plants (transpiration). There are a number of factors that affect evapotranspiration including plant species, weather factors and quality of water available to the plant.
Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo)
A helpful way to quantify weather based data is the calculation of reference evapotranspiration or ET. The best sources for live or real-time ET data are local sources (local weather stations), Cooperative Extension Service, National Weather Service and water purveyors.
Evapotranspiration can be based on alfalfa ET(r) or if turf, ET(o).
ET(o) is defined as the ET rate of healthy turf, completely covering the ground to a uniform height of 4 -6 inches and having an adequate supply of water with no microclimate factors influencing it.
Why is ET important?
Evapotranspiration or reference ETo, is an important reference point for irrigation water use calculations. It represents a specific rate of use in response to local weather conditions.
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Example of ET in use.
Determine the Plant Water Requirement for Acacia Redolens planted at 15″ spacing on center.
Location is a garden setting surrounded on three sides by four story concrete buildings in Los Angeles
The objective of a accurate irrigation schedule is to supply the correct amount of water to the plant without over watering. (because we don’t want to waste money with unnecessary watering nor do want to kill the plant by over watering)
So how do we find this specific amount of water?
To calculate the ET rate of a specific plant we need the following two factors; the landscape coefficient K(L) and the reference evapotranspiration (ETo).
The specific ET for a plant is ET (L), the “L” = Landscape.
ET(L) = K(L) x ET (o)
K(L) = Landscape coefficient
ET(o) = Reference evapotranspiration
The ET for landscape ET(L) will vary as the mix of plant species is used, the density of planting and the planting location microclimate. After we evaluate each factor and assign a numerical value to each, we then can estimate the overall K(L).
K(L) = K(s) x K(d) x K(mc)
K(L) = Landscape coefficient
K(s) = Species Factor
K(d) = Density Factor
K(mc) = Microclimate Factor
Once we calculate K(L) we simply multiply it against our ET(0) to determine our landscape water requirement.
Species Factor K(s)
Species Factor K(s) will vary considerably in their transpiration rates. Values for species factor are available through local sources such as Cooperative Extension Service.
Because there is such a range of water usage among different plants, the water use is divided into three groups: low, medium and high. This is shown in the table below:
Density Factor K(d)
Landscapes can also vary in density. Leaf surface is often less in newly planted landscape than mature landscapes and will use less water.The total water loss from dense planting most likely will be higher due to the greater total leaf area for the site. We then assign a higher density factor to these areas.
landscape density factor
Microclimate Factor K(mc)
The environment may also play a role in landscape water use as well. A medium microclimate area is where buildings, pavement, slopes, shade and reflection do not influence the site. In these conditions K(mc) = 1. A high microclimate conation is where the landscape is surrounded (or affected) by heat-absorbing surfaces, reflecting or high wind conditions. In these cases, K(mc) could be as high as 1.4. A low microclimate is where a planting area is in shade or protected from the wind. This area will have a K(mc) = .5.
Lets plug the numbers in and find our answer:
From looking at our reference guide, Estimating Irrigation Water Needs of Landscape Plantings in California, (WUCOLs ), we can quickly determine that the species factor K(s) is “Low” (for zone 3-Los Angeles).
Therefore, K(s) = .2
Next we need to determine the Density factor. From the problem we can see that these shrubs are planted 15′ o.c., hence they density is quite low.
Therefore, K(d) = .5
Next we need to determine a microclimate factor. The planting area is surrounded by concrete buildings which will reflect heat. But the the areas is also being protected from the sun, and wind. Hence since these conditions offer a trade off , we will use a value of 1.0.
K(mc) = 1.0
K(L) = K(s) x K(d) x K(mc)
K(L) = .2 x .5 x 1.0
K(L) = .1
Now lets multiply our ET(o) x K(L)
From our ET reference table (above) we see that July is the hottest month of the year with an ET of 5.4. Since this is worst case, lets use that value.
ET(L) = ET(o) x K(L)
ET(L) = 5.4 x .1
ET(L) = .54 inches of water for the month of July!
How cool is that? We just determined that Acacia Redolens, for this particular setting and condtion will only need .54 inches of water for the entire month of July! Now mind you, this is just an estimate, (your mileage may vary..) but you can cleary see how using ET values can help you determine plant water needs.
Next up, we’ll determine Irrigation Water Requirement.
Whether you need to irrigate a commercial shopping center, municipal building, sports field, parking lot or residence, Atomic Irrigation can help. We’re up to speed on all the latest in technology from low-water spray heads, drip irrigation products and the latest ET Controllers. We can help.


Interested in amending your soil efficiently and effectively?
First things first, TEST YOUR SOIL.
Without a proper analysis, you run the risk of wasting time, energy and money by not making calculated and informed decisions.
1. Primary Test: pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfate and Organic Matter. $45
2. Micro Test: Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Copper, Boron $30
3. Primary + Micro= $75
How to take a soil sample:
1. Dig smalll hole about 8 inches deep into the soil that your are interested in.
2. Scrape the side of the hole and collect about 4 cups of soil.
3. Place soil in a ziplock bag and bring to the BLC. Results are usually ready within 3 business days.
To get a good representation of your soils fertility, take samples from several areas/pots/holes and mix them together, then bring in a sample of that. This only works if the soil has all been treated the same and given similar growing conditions.
You can expect test results within 3 business days. Once we understand what your soil needs in order to maximize fertilirty, an amendment plan can established.
Here is how test results are reported:
- Soil needs to be moist but not wet.
- Reusing potting soil? Mix all soil together and take representative sample.
- Multiple soil sample locations? A test per location is recomended.
Using your soil test results, you can make good decisions on how to properlly augment your soil's fertility. The BLC offers a fertilizer brokerage service to help local farmers maximize their profit by reducing costs and improving yields. Call or come by to set up a consultation.


2 edition of Detection of the herbicide alachlor and its sulfonic acid metabolite in soil found in the catalog.
Detection of the herbicide alachlor and its sulfonic acid metabolite in soil
Lesley A. Smith
|Statement||by Lesley A. Smith.|
|The Physical Object|
|Pagination||41 leaves, bound :|
|Number of Pages||41|
Herbicide compounds were prevalent in ground water across Iowa, being detected in 70% of the municipal wells sampled during the summer of Herbicide degradation products were three of the four most frequently detected compounds for this study. The degradation product alachlor ethanesulfonic acid was the most frequently detected compound (%), followed by atrazine (%), and the A metabolite of alachlor, ethane sulfonic acid (ESA), is formed in soil and is subject to leaching. On the basis of the presence of ESA in monitoring wells downgradient of alachlor treated fields, DATCP and other state agencies decided that ESA should be included in the survey of alachlor
Fairchild, J.F., Sappington, L.C., and Ruessler, D.S., , An ecological risk assessment of the potential for herbicide impacts on primary productivity of the Lower A. Adams, C.D., Randtke, S.J., Thurman, E.M., and Hulsey, R.A., , Atrazine and its degradation products in soil and ground water, and the effectiveness of water
The inputs of atrazine and alachlor herbicides to surface and ground waters from irrigated areas dedicated to corn cultivation in the Castilla-León (C-L) region (Spain) as related to the application of both herbicides were studied. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were used for monitoring the atrazine and alachlor concentrations in 98 water samples taken from these :// Battaglin, W.A., , Using ratios of atrazine transformation products to atrazine to determine its source in Midwestern streams, in Kenny, J., ed., Ground Water
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Determination of Alachlor and Its Metabolite 2,6-Diethylaniline in Microbial Culture Medium Using Online Microdialysis Enriched-Sampling Coupled to High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry59 (15), DOI: /:// Identification of a New Sulfonic Acid Metabolite of Metolachlor in Soil.
Environmental Science & Technology30 (2), DOI: /es Thomas L. Potter and Thomas L. Carpenter. Occurrence of Alachlor Environmental Degradation Products in :// Detection of the herbicide alachlor and its sulfonic acid metabolite in soil. Download PDF (1 MB) Abstract. Graduation date: The chloroacetanilide herbicide alachlor is the second most widely used herbicide\ud in the US, where it is used on major crops such as corn and soybean.
and was below the detection limit in soil collected Alachlor and metolachlor are dechlorinated and transformed into their corresponding ethane sulfonic acid (ESA) metabolites in soil.
In a field-disappearance study, it was shown that alachlor ESA Alachlor and its metabolite, 2-[(2‘,6‘-diethylphenyl)(methoxymethyl)amino]oxoethanesulfonate (ESA), were identified in 76 reservoirs in the midwestern United States using immunoassay, liquid chromatography, and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
The median concentration of ESA ( μg/L) exceeded the median concentration of alachlor ( An ethanesulfonic acid metabolite of metolachlor (metolachlor ESA) was identified in soil-sample extracts by negative-ion, fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB-MS) and FAB tandem mass spectrometry (FAB-MS/MS).
Product-ion fragments from MS/MS analysis of the deprotonated molecular ion of metolachlor ESA in the soil extract can be reconciled with the structure of the SPE and ELISA are combined for the trace analysis of the herbicide alachlor and its major soil metabolite, ESA.
The method is viable for the analysis of both surface- and ground water samples and is comparable to GC/MS and HPLC analyses for alachlor and ESA (Aga et al., ). Download: Download full-size image; Fig.
Pathways for The structure of ESA (Fig. 1) is different from alachlor at only one position where the chlorine atom of the parent molecule has been replaced by a sulfonic acid moiety. Alachlor is a herbicide used for pre-plant and early post-emergent control of grass and broadleaf weeds in corn and other :// trometry.
Two metabolites of the chloroacetanilde herbicides—ethane sulfonic acid and oxanilic acid—are detected by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection and liquid chromatogra-phy/mass spectrometry.
Alachlor ethane sulfonic acid also has been detected by solid-phase extraction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent The formation and the transport of sulfonic acid metabolites of Alachlor and Metolachlor were established by Aga and Thurman.
Decomposition in soil and occurrence in ground water of the herbicide glyphosate was studied by Börjesson and Torstensson  after its application for weed control on a Swedish railway :// Alachlor is an aromatic amide that is N-(2,6-diethylphenyl)acetamide substituted by a methoxymethyl group at at the nitrogen atom while one of the hydrogens of the methyl group has been replaced by a chlorine atom.
It has a role as a herbicide, an environmental contaminant and a xenobiotic. It is an organochlorine compound, a monocarboxylic acid amide and an aromatic :// 1. Aga, D.S.; Thurman, E.M. “Application of solid-phase extraction for trace analysis of herbicides in water and soil by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay”.
1. Introduction. The chloroacetanilide herbicides (alachlor, acetochlor, and metolachlor) are an important class of herbicides in the USA.
Together with the triazine compounds, chloroacetanilide herbicides compose the majority of pesticides applied in the Midwestern USA for control of weeds in corn, soybeans, and other row crops (Gianessi and Puffer, ). Solid-phase extraction (SPE) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were combined for the trace analysis of the herbicide alachlor and its major soil metabolite, ethane-sulfonic acid (ESA).
Atrazine, metolachlor, and the ethane-sulfonic acid metabolite of alachlor (alachlor ESA) were the most frequently detected herbicides and, in general, were present in the largest concentrations. Almost 80% of the annual herbicide load to the Gulf of Mexico A high-performance liquid chromatography method for the analysis of 2-[2,6-diethylphenyl) (methoxymethyl)amino]oxoethanesulfonic acid, a major soil metabolite of alachlor thanesulfonic acid, is formed by soil microbes via glutathi-one conjugation and subsequent oxidative metabolism.
The chemical structure of ESA (Fig. 1) differs from that of alachlor at one position where the chlorine atom of the parent molecule has been replaced by a sulfonic acid moiety. Alachlor is a selective herbicide used for preplant and The sulfonic acid degradates of chloroacetanilide herbicides (e.g., alachlor, acetochlor and metolachlor) have been frequently detected as the major degradates in water and soils at levels often ethane sulfonic acid and oxanilic acid } are detected by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection and liquid chromatographyrmass spectrometry.
Alachlor ethane sulfonic acid also has been detected by solid-phase extraction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Six phenylurea metabolites are all detected by Organic Chemicals/Scribner et al_Total Env_pdf.
Cardoza et al. have used stopflow HPLC-NMR for the on-line separation and detection of the cis and trans rotational isomers of alachlor-ethane sulfonic acid (alachlor-ESA, Fig. 17U) . The. To manage the safety of the herbicide metazachlor, analytical methods are required for the determination of metazachlor metabolites in agricultural crops.
Herein, a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method was developed for the simultaneous determination of metazachlor metabolites (M04, M08, and M16) in various agricultural :// Biological degradation by dechlorination in soil leads to the formation of the ethane sulfonic acid (ESA) metabolite (Stamper and Tuovinen, ).
Alachlor ESA is a more polar compound than alachlor and has been found in groundwater and in surface water more often and in higher concentrations than the parent :// It is a non-selective, post-emergence and systemic herbicide that controls or kills more weed species than any other herbicide.
Its mechanism of action is through the shikimate metabolic pathway, leading to the disruption of aromatic amino acid synthesis. It was introduced in the early s because of its relatively low toxicity, long-lasting


TAGBILARAN CITY – Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos, Jr., the name-sake of former President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, has paid attention to whatever proposals from the farmers affected for the “proper use of Php74 billion coco levy fund for the benefit and the development of the country’s coconut industry.” And he assured farmers from the different places of the Visayas islands who assembled in this city for consultation of this (proper use of the said fund).
Jun Ordinario, federation president of the Small Coconut Farmers Organization of Bohol, told DYTR that almost 700 farmers coming from regions 6, 7 and 8 in the Visayas cluster came in droves to attend the said consultation to make their demand that the illegal transfer of coco levy fund to national treasury heard.
Bohol’s SCFO is an organization-member of the Confederation Coconut Farmers Organizations of the Philippines (CONFED).
“If you allow me, I volunteer to help you towards the realization of your vision to improve the coconut industry and to ensure the fund that grew through your hard work will not be misused,” Marcos said.
He said in his speech at the jampacked Bohol Cultural Center yesterday that his coming to Bohol is to listen the farmers’ sentiments and gather proposals on what to do with the coco levy fund’s proper use for the benefit of the industry.
“Marcos said the proper and prudent use of levy funds would benefit, not only the small farmers but the entire country as well, citing the January 24, 2012 ruling of the Supreme Court declaring that the coco levy funds are owned by the government to be used only for the benefit of all coconut farmers and for the development of the coconut industry.”
He said by using the coco levy funds properly, the country’s coconut industry can be “price giver,” dictating the price of the product in the international market, instead of being a mere price taker.”
CONFED has urged the Senate to enact a law constituting the coconut levy funds and assets into a Coconut Industry Trust Fund (CITF) and “providing and administrative structure to manage the trust funds and ensure that its use will benefit the coco industry and the coco farmers.”
It will be recalled that the Supreme Court en banc has issued a temporary resraining order (TRO) barring the Aquino government, as respondents, who are “enjoined from implementing Executive Order Nos. 179 and 180, series of 2015, and from using, disbursing and disposing the subject coconut levy assets and funds.”
The TRO issuance docketed G. R. No. 217965 was dated June 30, 2015 and signed by Enriqueta E. Vidal, Clerk of Court.
Confederation of Coconut Farmers Organizations of the Philippines is the complainant.
Named respondents were Pres. Benigno Simeon A. Aquino III, Acting Commissioner Richard Roger Amurao of the Presidential Commission on Good Gvoernment; chairman Cesar I. Villanueva of the Governance Commission for Government Owned-and-controlled corporations (GOCCs); and Sec. Leila M. De Lima of the Department of Justice (DOJ). (rvo)


We were SUPER blessed to find such a great home, in just the right neighborhood, with such a huge space (mainly the huge living room to host lots of people and three bedrooms is nice for a family we hope to have soon). It fits us so well and we still think it is odd that it is ours, but it is. And for this, we are thankful.
We didn't start out crazy with the house projects, but we've been busy. We started small by painting our living room (blue-gray) and our kitchen (green tea). Austin and his step-dad built us a dining table (it just needs a final wax coat). And Austin put up a pot and pan rack, cookbook rack, and magnetic knife strip up for me for Christmas. These were the projects we started out with.
With the new year, we're finding ourselves deep in the middle of other, much larger DIY home projects:
1. We're putting in hardwood floors! We, mainly Austin and a mix and match group of friends depending on who was available any given day, pulled up the laminate, measured out and cut the boards, and nailed them in one by one. I'm sure there was a step or two that I skipped in that description. Right now we are hoping to have the living room and entryway nailed in, sanded, and sealed by Monday...wish us luck :)
3. We are going to garden! Really the hope is to invite our neighbors and friends to garden with us in our backyard as a sort of community garden...we'll see how that pans out. Our backyard is overgrown, but we have high hopes for the soil underneath the weeds, looks better than clay and looks dark and earthy (super technical gardening terms, I know).
I've started little egg cartons for seedlings and will transplant as they grow. I'm slowly working on clearing out the weeds and tilling the ground, so that come March it'll be ready for me to put our seedlings into the ground.


By Baby Ann Melinda Velonta
The Philippine Association of Nutrition (PAN) introduced Food Gardening during their 71st Annual Convention with the vision to improve the overall nutritional status of the Filipinos. The project aims to convince all the national and local organizations to focus on practical ways to solve hunger and malnutrition issues of the country.
With the theme “Bahay Kubo: Ugaliing Magtanim Upang Wastong Nutrisyon ay Anihin,” this year’s convention aims to encourage food gardening in the homes, schools and community so that the citizen’s food access will be improved and that way, hunger and food insecurity will be addressed.
According to Dr. Chory Ignacio, overall chairman, food gardening is the cultivation of vegetables and fruits in the backyards of houses or land spaces in schools and communities. It also involves livestock raising and poultry.
Dr. Ignacio pointed out that the main struggle when it comes to nutrition in the Philippines is the lack of food and the rise of diseases. “Malnutrition sets in because we basically lack food,” she said.
She explained that malnutrition exists in two forms, under-nutrition and over nutrition. Under-nutrition involves stunting, or being short for age, and wasting, or being too thin for height. Over-nutrition, on the other hand, involves overweight and obesity which leads to the risk of acquiring non-communicable diseases. Micronutrient deficiency which is also very prevalent among very young children and pregnant women also falls in the malnutrition category.
According to Food and Nutrition Research Institute’s report on 2015 Updating of the Nutritional Status of the Filipinos, 31.1 percent or one out of every three Filipino children aged 5-10 years old are affected by stunted growth while 31.2 percent or one out of every three Filipino children aged 5-10 years old are underweight.
“With this initiative we are hoping we can empower women,” Dr. Ignacio said. The Bahay Kubo food garden concept provides opportunity for women to sell products and have the extra money to buy other food items.
On the other hand, teachers and local nutrition partners should ensure the adoption of food gardens or Gulayan sa Paaralan to reinforce the food they serve at school during feeding sessions with the required nutrients for the children to grow and stay physically and mentally active.
Nov 2018 Health and Lifestyle


The notions of indoor gardening are often accompanied by the term ‘hydroponics’.
This is more often than not a misnomer, and there has been a variable conflict with this association in regards to illicit plant production. Since plants, their effects on environment, and the intrinsic relationship they hold with us as a food source is of utmost importance, it can be of benefit to understand that criticisms due to the insinuations of illicit involvement are in fact baseless. The percentage of people worldwide who engage in honest and beneficial indoor gardening vastly outnumber any illicit activity. House plants, food production green-housing and ornamental flowers such as orchids are among the most globally prevalent uses of indoor gardening.
There are three ways to categorize indoor gardening, and this considers the substrate or growing medium: hydroponics, aeroponics, and terraponics.
Hydroponics is the method of growing plants with a soilless substrate, or water culture. This can be confusing since many definitions of ‘soilless’ includes mediums which the average person would associate with ‘soil’ more than water. Because of the absence of logic regarding this, Hydroguy acknowledges most ‘soilless substrate’ which appears more or less as dirt to be terraponics.
Hydroponics has been used for much longer than western science has acknowledged it, and originally consisted of small floating gardens on lakes in Asia. Hydroponics is a modern feature of food and flower crop production, and many consider it to be a cleaner and more efficient means of growing. Terms for methods of hydroponics include;
• Flood & Drain
• Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
• Deep Water Culture (DWC)
These are the ‘common terms’ for hydroponics systems. Horticulture defines them somewhat more specifically, such as sub-irrigation or top-irrigation, but these terms are not found in most books and magazines.
Flood & Drain:
Systems using Flood & Drain often include tables or buckets where plants are suspended in clay pebbles, gravel, or rockwool cubes. The tables or buckets are flooded on timers to disperse water (often nutrient solution) over the roots of the plants and growing medium, and then drained out of the tables or buckets for reuse or waste.
Nutrient Film Technique:
NFT is most widely seen as prefabricated or home-built PVC pipe systems where holes are drilled along the length of the pipe for mesh baskets or rubber plugs which suspend plants with the roots concealed within the pipe. Water (or nutrient solution) is pumped through the pipes which contacts the roots, the growing medium such (as clay, gravel, or rockwool) or both. NFT systems are usually designed so the aqueous solution is pumped into one orifice at the top of the apparatus and gravity fed through the pipes, nourishing the roots of the plants, and draining out the bottom for reuse or waste. NFT can also be utilized on flood tables; rather than allowing the tables to fill prior to draining, water (or nutrient solution) is pumped into one end and allowed to drain freely on the other after hydrating the roots and/or growing medium.
Deep Water Culture:
The essence of DWC, or “static solution culture”, is the continual presence of water (or nutrient solution) in which the root system of plants is submerged. The most common apparatus for growing by DWC on a small or hobby scale are flood tables and buckets. In larger production facilities it is more common to use custom water tables that can contain multiple smaller float-tables that hold the seedlings or saplings with their roots suspended in water. Aeration and nutrient circulation are very important in DWC systems as the natural oxygenation which occurs in other hydroponics systems is greatly reduced.
Drip systems vary in many ways, and do not always resemble ‘drips’. The overall theme of a drip system is utilizing irrigation plumbing to distribute water (or nutrient solution) onto the surface of a medium. The aqueous solution can drip continuously, intermittently, or flow freely from an irrigation line. Drip emitters, sprayers, or mist nozzles are often fitted to irrigation line for precise and uniform applications. In true hydroponics drip systems, most commonly utilizing flood tables or buckets, the excess nutrient solution percolates through the clay, gravel, or rockwool and is then reused or wasted.
Aeroponics is the cultivation of plants using air and nutrient rich water vapor as the substrate the roots are suspended in. Typically no other medium is used to support the plant, and the stalk is fitted into a neoprene or other inert and sterile material which is inserted into an aeroponics system. Aeroponics systems have been available since the mid-80’s and can be purchased in an assortment of various forms.
The aeroponics systems, in contrast to hydroponics and soil systems, are not as easy to classify in regards to common home-build apparatus or standard equipment. The common denominator in any aeroponics system is the necessity to deliver small particles of water in vapor form or as small misted droplets; so no matter which aeroponics unit you are looking to purchase or design there will be some or another form of mister jets, hydro-atomizers, or foggers.
The basic premise is that in order for a plant to survive its rhyzosphere must remain moist. Science has evolved from believing that plants require soil to provide food, to realizing that dissolved minerals in water were sufficient for root delivery; and finally to the ultimate control of moisture delivery in the form of vapor which eliminates a lot of potential for pathogenic activity in the water, growing substrate, and even nutrient delivery lines.
The common design of aeroponics systems looks rather like two Rubbermaid containers sealed together at their openings, one upside down on top of the other. Small holes are made on the top of the unit for the “support plug” to fit into, and the plant is submerged into the small hole with the roots concealed. After the mostly superficial outer design is where the aeroponics systems can greatly differ. Some allow a small portion of aqueous solution to remain in the container for humidity and lengthy roots to rest in, others drain the basin completely of excess water dripping from the roots. No matter what details are employed the roots will be entirely or mostly exposed only to air and water vapor so it is extremely important maintenance and checks are done to prevent plant wilting in the case of a pump failure.
Science has adopted the use of aeroponics as a particularly neutral form of growing in order to study different aspects of plant growth. This is because there is a great deal of factors removed in the actual system of growing plants, allowing scientists to isolate what they are researching much easier. Soil and the myriad of biological activity, bio-chemicals, microscopic processes and chain reactions between soil-born pathogens, beneficial organisms, and nutrients can devastate the isolation of any single variable in the growing process. Even the nutrient invested into a soil medium is impossible to trace entirely. Where it goes, if it is precipitated into a salt or is adsorbed onto a particle of humus, or maybe it is leeched; certainly soil can be used to monitor and test a lot of things, but if the effects of particular nitrogen are the objective it is more suitable to use a growing system where nutrients can be applied with precision and minimal loss. Due to the problems with fluid dynamics in low-gravity, and the cumbersome mass of growing substrates, NASA has been researching and developing aeroponics systems for use in Space.
Aeroponics is an ideal form of growing, and certainly the most advanced; but it not without its own issues. The most common aeroponics systems you will see in a garden center or hydroponics store is really only intended for small plants or short-term life plants. The reason being is these units are usually low-pressure aeroponics systems which only mist or fog the region of roots exposed to the water vapor. Once roots become too great a mass the vapor will have a difficult time reaching the inner portions, which can lead to root death and either decrease the production and health of your plant or just outright kill it. High-pressure aeroponics systems have been created to solve this dilemma and most of the larger-scale and industrial aeroponics systems are high-pressure; yet for a home or hobby producer these systems can be well outside of our budget. Low-pressure systems will sometimes then employ partial deep-water-culture by allowing a marginal amount of aqueous solution to remain in the bottom of the container to allow roots more access to moisture.
Prior to the academic acknowledgement of hydroponics, terraponics was known simply as gardening in whatever form; open-field crop, green-housing, gardening, etc. Terraponics is the use of soil as a substrate or growing medium; the simplest most natural form of gardening in the outside world – but what about the inside?
Where hydroponics and aeroponics have clear-cut definable and controllable variables (for the most part), terraponics is highly complex to the point of mysterious, has an unthinkable amount of variables involved, and requires a great deal of effort to be performed indoors with the same factors as outdoors. Our knowledge of plants, minerals, and how to keep a growing medium inert has allowed green-houses and other indoor gardens to produce with few issues; but there is no question that what we call soil in an indoor garden and an outdoor garden are incomparable. In fact it is questionable whether any single person has enough degrees under their belt to cover all the facets of soil and its minerals, micro-flora, micro-fauna, organic compounds, insects; let alone the complex relationship these variables need to have to form what we might consider “balance”. The separation from outdoor dirt farming and indoor gardening is so vast in fact soil-like mediums have been termed as “soilless” to differentiate a mostly inert and sterile substrate from the natural great outdoor soil that’s comparably teeming with life. Peat ‘dirt’, peat moss, coco coir, and composted substrate rich in organics are all termed soilless, absurd as it is on one level, simply because they are man-made compositions of mineral and decomposed organic matter. This element of being “man-made” is not just significant in regards to ground rock and humus content; the entire web of life present in a healthy soil is only made partially present in soilless substrate if a person adds them, and there is no doubt it is impossible to contrive the millions of organisms a biologist may find in a square foot of your backyard.
For the purpose of recognizing the complexities of natural soil it is beneficial to distinguish what is missing in an indoor “potting soil”, yet Grow School differentiates “dirt” as a substrate that can get you dirty from “hydroponics substrate” which can get a person dusty sometimes but is bereft of the distinctly brown humic substance that “dirties” clothing, clogs pumps, and otherwise could be mistaken by a novice as dirt. Terraponics, as far as Grow School is concerned, includes the indoor use of peat, coco, worm castings, silica clay, compost, perlite, and other common ingredients to a “soilless substrate”. (Note: Perlite and some other common soil additives can also be used as a hydroponics medium.)
Terraponics systems employ pots, beds, hanging baskets, or any other suitable container, often with drainage holes in the bottom for runoff. Soil constitution is important for aeration and drainage, as well as cation-exchange, nutrient adsorption, water retention, and pH. Different plants have numerous optimal conditions for their root zones, and the base-line ingredient for your plants medium is dependant on what specie(s) of plant you want to grow. Often looking at the natural environment the plant is found in will give a good idea as to what it will grow most successfully in, yet many varieties will prevail in several mediums. Acid-loving plants might perform best in a bark-mulch medium or peat, where alkaline-loving plants may be more suited to a well limed sandy loam. The combinations of clay, silt, sand, bark, moss, gravel, etc. and organic compounds like worm castings and compost make for a vastly broad range of possible terraponics growing mediums – to optimize your medium to your preferred plant species may take some research, and many indoor gardeners simply opt out of attempting to complicate their dirt-mediums and purchase pre-mixed potting soil.
When trying to concoct the ultimate growing medium it is also important to consider your fertilization methods. Will your substrate quickly leech mineral fertilizers? How often do you have to water? Is there enough humic substance or clay to facilitate cation-exchange? Do you want to enhance your substrate with micro-organisms, and if so how are you prepared to keep them alive? If ignorance is bliss, and complexity is a burden, you’re not alone. The majority of non-casual indoor gardeners keep things as simple, inert, sterile, and non-biological as possible – which is good considering the synthetic fertilizers we use are known to decimate micro-organisms found in healthy biologically-active soil.
The use of the terms “inert” and “sterile” in regards to potting soil are loose terms. They are inert in the sense that biological activity is negligible, and sterile to the degree that “weed seed” should not be present. All soil with any form of organic matter is in a constant state of decomposition, however because of the duration and conditions required this decomposition occurs so slowly that the medium is usually discarded before any changes are noticeable.
Soil is a complex science, and more over the relationship between dissolved minerals, ions, micro and macro-organisms is astounding and far too involved to delve too deeply into here. There are many disputed facets of indoor gardening regarding organics and their availability in the absence of the “web of life” to convert them to nutrients available to a plant, and synthetic fertilizer use along side organics can reduce the beneficial organisms which may otherwise process the organics. Because most people prefer to use pre-mixed potting soil and synthetic or mineral water-soluble nutrients they skip passed a rabbit hole of problems with the trade-off of having to employ more fertilizers, as well as various pesticides to imitate a healthy indoor garden. This practice, though not as sustainable in the long-term is simple, efficient, and still produces a healthy plant irregardless of how entirely unnatural the environment may be.
Soil pathogens can form in potting soil over time no matter how well composted or sterile it is on purchase. Exudates from bacteria and fungi that live on the root system can bond soil particles together creating an anaerobic region that can restrict air and water flow, and attract unwanted pathogens. Soil pests like insect nematodes take advantage of poor soil conditions and a lack of organism balance that is common indoors. Root exudates attract fungi and bacteria, which in turn attract nematodes which feed on them; nematodes are then a food source for shredder arthropods who’s main predator (predator arthropods) are in much lower quantity in an indoor garden, leaving a monopoly inside your soil to the advantage of thrips, mites, and other pests.
On the flip side as an advantage over hydroponics or aeroponics, terraponics grown indoor vegetables often have a much better flavor. The cause of this I can’t say for certain, but there are a lot of peripheral variables to plant health beyond the 13 macro and micro nutrients such as amino acids, organic vitamins, carbohydrates, and an abundance of organic chemicals plants can utilize. Much less is known regarding these compounds and how they assist the development of plant oils, flavanoids, turpines, and vitamins; but many growers believe them responsible for the quality of their products as well as helpers for quantity of yield and overall plant health.
Ease of use
If we were to order the ease of use for these three growing systems we would order as Terraponics, Hydroponics, and then Aeroponics – so long as the Terraponic system strictly employed pre-mixed potting soil and water-soluble or liquid horticultural fertilizers. There is less equipment, less needed to be relatively successful, and it is a medium most people are more comfortable with.
The benefits of hydroponics and aeroponics can not be undermined however, and as a person becomes more comfortable with the multitudes of variables involved in growing in soil the easier the transition into water or air will be.
Benefits and downfalls of Terraponics summarized
Soil is much more forgiving, retains water, does not require a lot of maintenance, and has a natural pH buffer in case a mistake is made with the nutrient solution.
Soil attracts and houses more pathogens; as well bedded plants can transmit or share pathogens quite easily. Soil pH can by critically detrimental to plant health, and is often overlooked or mistaken for a nutrient problem; when soil pH needs correction it can pose difficulty if the plants are overly sensitive to the correction substance.
Benefits and downfalls of Hydroponics summarized
Hydroponics removes the soil-borne pathogen issues from growing, is very clean, and is usually designed to disperse nutrient solutions automatically, reducing labor. Hydroponics allows nutrient uptake to be monitored and can be adjusted without the delay of waiting for soil to dry. Hydroponics requires less water over-all than soil as unused portions of nutrient solution can be reused for several days.
Hydroponics requires equipment that must be cleaned and maintained to operate properly. If a pump breaks down in a Hydroponics system the portion of the garden irrigated by the pump could dehydrate within hours (depending on the system). Hydroponics is highly pH sensitive – if there is a mistake in the pH of the nutrient solution the effects on the plants is very fast and continues to accumulate problems until corrected. Hydroponics often requires a lot of water for circulation. Nutrient solutions must be kept cool to avoid water-borne pathogens such as pythium – once a water-borne pathogen is present in the reservoir it is distributed to all plants. Reservoir chillers are quite expensive. Methods such as DWC require water aeration to prevent anaerobic pathogen growth in the nutrient solution – other Hydroponics systems may use percolation or recirculation to oxygenate the solution.
Benefits and downfalls of Aeroponics summarized
Aeroponics allows the grower to enjoy the Hydroponics experience with less water, smaller irrigation lines, and less chance of forming pathogens in the apparatus the plants are contained in as there is always a persistence of air. Root to root contact in Aeroponics is greatly reduced since plants are neither suspended in soil or water, nor are they momentarily joined by a film or flow of nutrient solution; this reduces the chance of pathogens and disease spreading through-out the crop and allows plants to be grown closer. Aeroponically rooted plants have been found to show less signs of transplant shock that are commonly observed in hydroponics-rooted plants.
Aeroponics utilizes misters, foggers, or atomizers; for this reason there is a limitation on usable nutrients since micron, coagulation, and buildup of carbohydrates and organic compounds must be considered. Aeroponics systems are often low-pressure which limits the size of root zone the system will be optimal for; this limits use to short-lived plants or species with sparse root zones. Like hydroponics Aeroponics is highly dependant on pH of the nutrient solution, and the pumps that deliver it – it is not forgiving and mistakes can lead to much larger failure than terraponics.


– Maybe the new system will be a problem for farmers. Note that the ordinances limit existing APMC laws (as in Bihar) but limit the regulation of CMAs to the physical limits of the markets under their control. Regulations can lead to increased competition, which can also increase the efficiency of LDCs in providing low-cost marketing services.  In addition, for farmers who sell their products outside APMC markets, APMC market prices can be used as indicative prices and numbered to better price-fixing for farmers. On 5 June 2020, the central government adopted three regulations: (i) the 2020 Regulation on Farmers` Trade and Trade (promotion and facilitation); (ii) the Agreement on Price Safety and Agricultural Services Protection, 2020, and (iii) the Basic Commodities Regulation (Amendment) 2020. , Regulations are intended to facilitate (i) the accessibility of agricultural products outside markets notified by the various national apmc laws (ii) to establish a framework for contract agriculture and (iii) to limit agricultural products only when retail prices rise sharply. Together, the three regulations are intended to increase the ability of farmers to enter into long-term sales contracts, increase buyer availability and allow buyers to purchase large quantities of agricultural products. – The bill will allow farmers to work in a level playing field with processors, wholesalers, aggregators, large distributors, exporters, etc. In 2017-18, the central government published the APMC model and contract agriculture legislation to allow unrestricted trade in agricultural products, promote competition through multiple marketing channels and promote agriculture under pre-contracted contracts.   The Standing Committee (2018-19) found that states had not implemented many of the reforms proposed in the standard laws13. He recommended that the central government set up a committee of agriculture ministers from all states to reach consensus and develop a legal framework for the marketing of agricultural products.
In July 2019, a high-performance committee of seven chief ministers was set up to discuss, among other things: (i) the adoption and implementation of standard laws by states over time and (ii) amendments to the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 (which provides for control of the production, supply and trade of essential goods) to attract private investment in agricultural marketing and infrastructure.  – Due to wage moderation, farmers will be put under pressure and will therefore not be able to determine prices. Do you think that the proposed reforms for the agricultural sector under the territory of Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan guarantee better price realization for farmers? Clarification. – Another doubt is that small farmers will be able to farm under contract, and sponsors will fear them. Gramin Agriculture Markets: The Standing Committee noted that the availability of a transparent marketing platform, easily accessible and efficient is a precondition for safeguarding remunerative prices for farmers1 Most farmers do not have access to public procurement and APMC markets.1 Small and marginal farmers (who own 86% of farms) face different problems when selling their products in the APMC111 markets , for example. B insufficient marketable surpluses. Distance from the nearest APMC markets and lack of transportation.1 The average area served by an APMC market is 496 km2, much higher than the 80 sqm.


How to make the most of the last weeks of golf season – and beyond
Oct. 17, 2023
How much has the Sioux Falls area loved golf this year?
Consider this: Rounds at GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness are trending up 10 percent over last year – and there wasn’t even an option to golf in April.
“That’s pretty incredible,” director of golf operations Jason Crisp said. “We’re seeing tons of new golfers and lots of new GreatLIFE members, and we’re not done for the year yet.”
When will it be done? It all depends on Mother Nature.
“There have been years when some of our courses were open in December, and there are times we’ve had to shut down the first week of November,” Crisp said. “It looks like this week we’ll be into the 60s, so we still have some play.”
Here’s what to know though.
Fall mornings often bring frost, and when you walk on frozen grass on the golf course, the grass blades will break.
“That’s not repairable,” Crisp said. “Think of it like breaking eggshells. You will see long-term damage, and eventually the grass will wilt, turn a purple brown color and die.”
So if you’re out for a morning round in the weeks ahead, just check in with the pro shop first, he said.
“Sometimes, people think it has to be 32 degrees to cause frost, and it doesn’t,” Crisp said. “It can be in the low 40s, which we’re seeing a lot lately, so just check in and they will let you know when it’s safe to play.”
When you do, you’ll discover “the courses are in fantastic shape,” Crisp said. “The superintendents and grounds teams are doing an amazing job. All the greens have been aerated, and right now it’s growing season, even though it’s colder and windy. The grass is growing at an incredible rate.”
If you play Rocky Run in Dell Rapids, you’ll also notice an improvement on the 16th hole.
“The ground underneath the front of the green was eroding, and the green had become very sloped, so we took off all the sod and put in 14 inches of sand to level it out, and we replaced the sod, so right now, there’s a temporary green in the middle of the fairway,” Crisp said.
“By the time we get to spring, it will be a great experience. That was always one of the hardest holes to set a pin, so traffic became an issue and putting became challenging, so we’re excited about that.”
Here are some other things for golfers to keep in mind in the coming weeks:
Use your pro shop credit
It’s that time: Your pro shop credit expires at the end of October, so make sure you use it up.
“The pro shops are well stocked, and your credit is good at all GreatLIFE pro shops,” Crisp said. “If you need something and it’s not in stock at your shop, we can deliver it there, so ask at the store.”
Simulator season is starting
You can golf year-round at GreatLIFE Suburban Lanes, including in league play.
“We also updated the software in the simulators, and it’s a great upgrade,” Crisp said. “We have some two-person leagues, and it’s structured the same as it is in the summer. Get your teammate, record your score and you can win pro shop credit.”
Leagues start in January and run until early April, but stop in and start working on your simulated game anytime. Click here to learn more.
Time to up your game
GreatLIFE’s Golf Academy never takes an off-season, and actually this is the best time to work on your game.
“All the programming here is offered through winter,” Crisp said. “They’ll do individual and group lessons, plus this is fitting season as people prepare to use up their pro shop credit. Fall is always a popular time for updating your equipment.”
New this year: A GEN2 program for younger golfers, meant to bridge the time between beginners and those looking toward high school and college.
Head out of town
Not ready to give up time on the golf course in the months ahead? Remember, GreatLIFE partners with Thompson Golf Group to offer discounted rounds at outstanding courses in Arizona.
The partnership even can deliver an international experience. Thompson’s Travel Group is offering a European golf cruise, which promises to be an unbelievable blend of golf and culture. The seven-night cruise goes from Budapest, Hungary, to Vilshofen, Germany, and stops at four golf courses. GreatLIFE members enjoy a discounted rate. Click here to learn more.


Spring is Here! New Fruit Trees Planted.
With the entrance of spring and the warmer weather, we decided it was time to plant some fruit trees on a small section of the farm. There is something about spring and seeing the farm coming to life after the winter thaw. Our spring objective was to get some new young fruit trees in the ground to help improve habitat. The trees we planted were a variety of Apple and Peach and roughly about a year old. On average it takes about three years before trees begin to produce fruit. Fruit trees act as a natural source of food for many different animals- the main animals being deer.


Great Courses / Modern Scholar
College Level Courses
Somers Seed Lending Library
A Community Heirloom Seed Lending Project
Somers Seed Lending Library is a free community heirloom seed lending project, demonstrating that libraries check out more than books! The idea is simple. Growers get enough seed to grow 3-4 plants from the seed catalog located behind the Reference Desk, record what they are taking with them as well as basic contact information for later in the season. Then they grow their plants during the season. At the end of the growing season for that plant, the grower harvests as usual, but saves some of the seed for next season, and returns a portion, usually 2-3 times the starting amount (or more) to the seed library to continue the cycle. Donations are gratefully accepted to help grow our seed library. Checks can be made out to the Friends of Somers Library, with a note in the memo field stating "For Seed Library." Also on our wish list: new packets of Heirloom Seeds. Follow Somers Seed Lending Library on Facebook by clicking here.
Local History Collection
Resources on the History of Somers and Westchester County
Somers Library can help you find out more about the local area, past and present. We have a wide range of resources reflecting all aspects of Somers heritage. The Library's collection is compiled of books, DVDs, school yearbooks, and other sources of information on the history of Somers and Westchester County. Materials in the Local History Collection do not circulate and must be used in the library under the supervision of a librarian. In addition to local history books, the library has a collection of books by local authors.
Wilton Cake Pan Collection
Cake Pans for the Baker in You


Why Buy Local?
There are many benefits of buying local in addition to supporting your local economy.
By supporting local farms, you are helping to preserve open spaces. Purchasing products from local farmers helps to keep them in business. In return, this helps to protect farmland from becoming developed.
Buying local also reduces the use of fossil fuels and helps to protect the environment from harmful exhaust fumes. When you buy local, your produce will not have traveled hundreds or even thousands of miles.
By buying local, you are receiving the freshest possible produce, picked just hours before delivery to your local store.
Thank you for buying local.


This direct trade coffee set comes to you freshly roasted and ready for enjoyment and community. The Jinotega, grown in Nicaragua, is sweet and vibrant with hints of caramel and floral. The San Miguel Escobar, grown in Guatemala, is mild and sweet with hints of fruit and cocoa.
For the gourmand.
Zion Coffee offers high-quality, single-origin coffee direct from the the farmer. Their profit sharing model helps advance the lives of farmers and their surrounding communities through investments in projects, tools, and education. Every bag purchased provides an opportunity to individually invest in the development of small farmers, their families, and their local community.


The Linux journal magazine recently published an article about ALBAstryde: an agricultural information system build by SIMAS, a Nicaraguan NGO, on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, and released under a GPL v.3 license.
ALBAstryde is a dynamic web-based information system that combines data from different sources. The numeric data can easily be combined with textual data (by placing comments on the graphs), the write ups from the wiki component, and PDF documents (added in a library section).
Some members from our community were involved from the beginning in the process of building ALBAstryde, and that’s for me, one of the most remarkable aspects of this system; that the knowledge of building, operating and extending ALBAstryde is available locally and not depending on foreign experts.
If you want to know more:


|"A Field of Beans" & somebody's Dreams|
During a meeting of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), members of the "Citizens for Community Improvement" decided things were not going as they "should," (re: not to their liking).
The DNR was holding an open meeting regarding "...limited application of liquid manure on Iowa farmland rather than banning the practice next May, as the activists had hoped."
Outbursts of “you guys are cowards,” “tin soldiers,” and “corporate shills” were shouted
by nearly 30 Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement members who appealed for the
commission to prevent large-scale commercial livestock operations from applying liquid
swine manure on land where the current crop has been harvested and will be planted to
soybeans during the next crop season.
“This is one of the most dead-headed things that corporate farmers can do,” said CCI
member Cherie Mortice. “This is a disgrace. I’m really disappointed that we can’t
move the ball in the right direction.”
"Moving the ball in the right direction" seems to mean doing things the CCI-preferred way.
Police were called and the meeting broke up with no decision made to change the limitations, but that still didn't satisfy the CCI folks. I'm sure another hearing or two will be scheduled later, so for now, the manure's not gonna get slung. I'm guessing the CCI folks still have twisted panties and knotted knickers.


Nathaniel D. Mueller
Nathan Mueller is an applied ecologist who studies how agricultural systems influence – and are influenced by – global environmental change.
Nathan received his B.A. in Biology and Environmental Studies from St. Olaf College in 2007 and his Ph.D. in Natural Resource Science and Management from the University of Minnesota in 2013. His dissertation research analyzed environmental tradeoffs to intensifying crop production at the global scale and how climate change may influence capacity for agricultural intensification. Before starting his Ph.D., Nathan worked at the U.S. EPA’s Mid-Continent Ecology Division.
As an Environmental Fellow, Nathan will work with Peter Huybers of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Noel Michele Holbrook of the Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology to improve statistical models relating climate to crop yield. His work will also investigate the interaction between changing agricultural management practices and climate using recently compiled time-series data.


I had a long and fulfilling day in the Garden yesterday. There were weeds to be pulled, composts to be turned, fruits and vegetables to be harvested, second round of plants to be planted, and organic fertilizer to be applied. I woke of this morning sore, but completely refreshed.
Sundays are a great day for gardening. I don't belong to an organized church, so my spiritual time could not be better spent than working with soil and plants. Often, I will set up the radio and turn it to a baseball game - the Minnesota Twins - since Sundays usually mean a day game. Yesterday the Twins lost to the California Angels, 7 -2, but not even this could spoil my mood.
After the game I turned the radio to NPR and tuned into Barbara Kingsolver being interviewed on Speaking of Faith. The segment was called The Ethics of Eating. Kingsolver and her family went one year with trying to raise all the food necessary for their living on their own property. THey supplemented what they could raise with trips to the local Farmers Markets and, if they had to, purchases of organic food from the grocery store. What they were attempting to accomplish was to live off of food that was raised in or near their locality and not support our international corporate food supply. She made several interesting points about questions people don't ask about where our food comes from.
Of course, all of this is just confirmation of my own views and was perfectly accommodating to my afternoon spent in the garden. I share similar goals to Kingsolver and have to echo her statement that purchasing your food locality and tending a garden has benefits that go beyond financial and is not that hard to do. It is a choice available to us all that has many spiritual and ethical benefits.


Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to develop an optimized process for extracting the dried Calendula officinalis flowers belonging to the family Compositae, being used extensively in many traditional formulations which are of great demand for this herb world wide. Optimizing the methodology of extraction of this herb could minimize the duration of extraction, improve yield, and have better control over the different parameters involved in the process, making the process highly effective and cost effective. Plackett-Burman design was employed for extracting Calendula officinalis. The studied independent variables are Type of apparatus (X1), Powder size, (X2), Duration of extraction(X3), Type of water for extraction (X4), Method of removal of solvent(X5), and Method of drying the extract (X6). Percentage yield was considered as dependent variable. The main effect and interaction terms were quantitatively evaluated using a mathematical model. The results indicate that factor X1 and X2 significantly affected the percentage yield. But the use of different type of water was found to be insignificant. Regression analysis and numerical optimization were performed to identify the best extraction method. The predicted values agreed well with the experimental values, and the results demonstrate the practicability of the model in the development of extraction process.
Calendula officinalis Linn (family Compositae), commonly known as 'Marigold' is a well known herb in India. It is native to Europe and is cultivated in temperate regions around the world. It contains phytoconstituents such as saponins, flavonoids, mucilage, essential oil, bitter principle, resins and steroidal compounds.
Calendula exhibits wide range of pharmacological and therapeutic properties and has been used extensively in Ayurveda, homeopathy and Traditional Chinese medicine for both internal as well as external preparation. Is reported to be having wound healing, immunomodulatory, spasmogenic and spasmolytic, antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiulcer, anti HIV, antitumorienic, antiviral and Hepato-protective activities. Calendula is also very popular for its protective properties such as skin moisturizing and depigmentation.


I have always wanted to try to grow my own vegetables. Before we moved here I never had a yard, and now that we do have a yard... well we live on post and we're not allowed to just dig into it and plant stuff. Out in the front we have a designated garden area but we cannot plant vegetables in it.
So my only option is to container garden. So this is what I have decided to do.
A few days ago I planted some seeds in one of those greenhouse seed starter things:
This is the vegetable side of my little greenhouse:
I also realize that not all my vegetables will fit in that bin and I might have to buy a second bin. I'll wait and see if I need another or not before I buy one.
I also am going to grow potatoes too, as an after thought! ha.
Are you a gardener? Got any tips for me? Because I am totally clueless to be honest.


Agricultural drones can optimize agriculture operations, increase crop production, and monitor crop growth. Sensors and digital imaging capabilities help in gathering information that can be useful in improving crop yields and farm efficiency.
In supporting precision farming, drones can scan soil health, monitor crop health, assist in planning irrigation schedules, apply fertilizers, estimate yield data and provide valuable data for weather analysis.
At Aero Smart, we provide the right solutions for employing agricultural drones. For example, the DJI Agras T40 is equipped with the revolutionary Coaxial Twin Rotor design, enabling it to carry a spray load of 40 kg and a spread load of 50 kg (70 L). The aircraft is built in with a Dual Atomized Spraying System, DJI Terra, Active Phased array Radar and Binocular Vision. It supports multiple missions from surveying, mapping, to spraying and spreading, helping you achieve ultimate precision in your agricultural operations.
The senseFly eBee Ag is part of the senseFly catalogue of drones a reliable, affordable solution to help farmers, agronomists and service providers map and monitor crops quickly and efficiently. The eBee Ag and its drone camera deliver timely plant health insights with accuracy and efficiency that’s only achievable from aerial data. Together, they’re powerful tools for making better decisions, growing healthier, higher-yielding crops and earning greater profit margins.
We also provide the enhanced Fly Dragon agricultural drones. The FDXD-8R-22L drone sprayer, for example, is Fly Dragon’s new agriculture drone for 2020, with a maximum take off weight of 55KG, a payload of 22 litres, flight time of 15 minutes, and an effective working area of 4 acres. For a list of Fly Dragon agricultural drones, please see below.


- What food do plants eat for energy?
- Do we kill plants by eating them?
- Is it cruel to eat animals?
- Do plants know when they are being killed?
- Do plants cry?
- Is it cruel to eat plants?
- Do plants scream when you kill them?
- Can plants get drunk?
- Do plants want to be eaten?
- Why do plants not need to eat?
- Do vegetables feel pain?
- Where do plants get their food from?
- Do plants feel love?
- Do plants scream when you eat them?
- Do plants get their food from the soil?
What food do plants eat for energy?
Plants get their energy through Photosynthesis.
The ‘meal’ after the process is called Glucose, which is the primary source of their growth.
Plants consume glucose and store them in the form of starch, for later use..
Do we kill plants by eating them?
While we must eat in order to survive, we can harm fewer plants by going vegan, because eating plants directly, rather than feeding them to animals and then killing those animals for their flesh, requires far fewer plants and hurts fewer animals who, we already know for sure, feel pain.
Is it cruel to eat animals?
If you accept that animals have rights, raising and killing animals for food is morally wrong. An animal raised for food is being used by others rather than being respected for itself. … No matter how humanely an animal is treated in the process, raising and killing it for food remains morally wrong.
Do plants know when they are being killed?
PLANTS know when you are going to chomp down on them – and they are NOT happy when they’re about to be munched. They have a special sense that alerts them to their imminent death, according to scientists at the University of Missouri.
Do plants cry?
Does it look like your leaves are dripping water or “crying”? This process, called guttation, is completely normal — your plant isn’t upset! We see many plant hobbyists ask why their plant is dripping water and if it’s okay, or a signal that something isn’t right.
Is it cruel to eat plants?
Plants aren’t inanimate objects — just like animals, they are living, breathing things too. But since plants don’t seem to make a sound when they are plucked, cooked, popped into the mouth and chewed, the foam-in-the-mouth “animal rights” defenders think (so conveniently) that there is no cruelty in eating plants.
Do plants scream when you kill them?
Plants feel pain too! Researchers find an ultrasonic ‘scream’ is emitted when stems are cut or if species are not watered enough. A team of scientists at Tel Aviv University have discovered that some plants emit a high frequency distress sound when they undergo environmental stress.
Can plants get drunk?
Since plants do not have a brain like we do humans, they cannot get drunk either. It is therefore not possible for flowers to be crooked in the vase the next day after a watering can of beer and to spray an alcohol flag instead of a fragrant fragrance.
Do plants want to be eaten?
Plants don’t want to be eaten. … Fruit isn’t the actual plant itself, it’s a byproduct of the plant that is meant to be eaten so the seeds can be distributed further than they normally would by other means. Plants are living and don’t want to die, because then they can’t reproduce.
Why do plants not need to eat?
The simple description of photosynthesis is that plants are able to absorb light energy from the sun, and use this energy to combine carbon dioxide and water in such a way as to form glucose and oxygen. … Thus, plants do not need to eat because they make their own food source.
Do vegetables feel pain?
Given that plants do not have pain receptors, nerves, or a brain, they do not feel pain as we members of the animal kingdom understand it.
Where do plants get their food from?
Their roots take up water and minerals from the ground and their leaves absorb a gas called carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air. They convert these ingredients into food by using energy from sunlight. This process is called photosynthesis, which means ‘making out of light’. The foods are called glucose and starch.
Do plants feel love?
Plants may not have feelings but they are indeed alive and have been described as sentient life forms that have “tropic” and “nastic” responses to stimuli. Plants can sense water, light, and gravity — they can even defend themselves and send signals to other plants to warn that danger is here, or near.
Do plants scream when you eat them?
Plants may not be able to scream, but they can tell when something is chewing on one of their leaves—and respond accordingly. In the study, the researchers subjected the plant to the sound of a caterpillar munching on its leaves. …
Do plants get their food from the soil?
That’s right, the physical body of a plant — leaves, stems, roots, flowers and fruit — is literally created from carbon dioxide in the air and water. So, plants do not eat the soil. Soil does not provide them the energy they need to live and grow.


Made from a hardwood/pine mix ground to a fine texture, this mulch has a higher rate of decomposition than many of our other mulches. It has excellent water retention and can help prevent soil erosion. Use it in flowerbeds, vegetable gardens, and anywhere else where you want the mulch layer to rot down and provide organic nutrients to your plantings. Best if renewed each year.
This economical mulch contains a mixture of different barks and woods. Although it has a slightly higher rate of decomposition than many of our other mulches, it is good for areas where you need to retain water and prevent soil erosion. Works well on slopes and banks that can be eroded in heavy rains.
Premium Hemlock Bark Mulch provides a fresh, rich look to any landscaped area or bed. Its color remains constant throughout the year, it decomposes slowly, and it holds moisture extremely well. Use it around border plantings, foundation plantings, and in any other area where good year-round color is desired.
A pervious material, meaning that it is porous enough to be compactable and allow water to drain. It is excellent for driveway finish. Also used for patios, under sheds, basketball courts, walkways, and under garage floors. Contains 20 percent 3/4″ stone. Weighs 1.6 tons per cubic yard. Discounted prices for large deliveries up to 20 cubic yards.
Course in texture, wood chips are excellent for preventing soil erosion. They can also be used for rustic walkways in gardens and wooded areas. As they age, wood chips become silvery in color and eventually decompose. Another use for them is as an economical layer under one of our premium mulches in areas that are being mulched for the first time. First lay down four to six inches of wood chips and then finish with two to four inches of premium mulch to achieve a very thick mulch layer at lower cost. (If you are unfamiliar with wood chips, please stop by to see this material before purchasing it.)


As the world’s second largest rice grower after China, India is on track to supply nearly 45% of global rice exports in 2021.
This comes at a time when the country’s expanded port-handling capacity has enabled it to ship record volumes to buyers across Africa and Asia.
Nitin Gupta, Vice president of Olam says that India could ship as much as 22 million tonnes of rice this year, or more than the combined exports of the next three largest exporters Thailand, Vietnam and Pakistan.
“Along with traditional buyers, this year China, Vietnam and Bangladesh are also making purchases from India,” he said.
India’s exports in 2020 rose 49% from the year before to a record 14.7 million tonnes, as shipments of non-basmati rice peaked 77% to a record 9.7 million tonnes, an analysis by Reuters reveals.
In 2021, non-basmati rice shipments could nearly double from a year ago to 18 million tonnes, while premium basmati rice exports are seen steady at 4 million tonnes, Gupta said.
In terms of price, Indian rice has been consistently cheaper than supplies from Thailand and Vietnam since last March, while global demand for rice has scaled record highs.
“Vessel waiting period has gone down after the deepwater port started handling rice. Demand that could have shifted to other countries remained with us,” said B.V. Krishna Rao, president of the Rice Exporters Association of India.
Until July 2021, India exported 12.84 million tonnes of rice, up 65% from a year ago, according to provisional data from the commerce ministry.
At least one million tonnes of rice would be shipped from the deepwater port in 2021, said M Muralidhar, chief operating officer of Kakinada Seaports Ltd.
Despite extra port capacity, Kakinada’s loading rate still lags well behind Southeast Asian ports due to a lack of dedicated rice-handling infrastructure.
“Here in Kakinada, it takes nearly a month to load around 33,000 tonnes of rice from the time we drop the anchor. In Thailand it takes only 11 days for the same quantity,” says Fahim Shamsi, caption of a ship that was loading rice at Kakinada this month.
Strain on the Kakinda port has increased after the cost of shipping rice by container surged, forcing rice shippers to switch from containers to bulk vessels, said Gupta of Olam.
Kakinada can export an additional 2 million tonnes of rice if infrastructure was upgraded and the process mechanized, Rao said.
India’s exports of non-basmati rice go mainly to African and Asian countries, while premium basmati rice goes to the Middle East, the United States and Britain.