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crop.zone – Electric Crop Management 

Works like chemistry – but without chemicals. Now even more efficient. 

The high-voltage method from crop.zone revolutionizes desiccation technology by intelligently using electricity to significantly increase the efficiency of electric desiccation. 

The principle of using electricity to kill plant material is proven: High DC voltage causes cells in the plant to burst, destroying its conductive vessels and cutting off its water supply. The plant dries out and dies. 

Efficiency boost through volt.fuel 

crop.zone has optimized the method by reducing the physical barrier of the plant with volt.fuel, a special spray solution. Volt.fuel lowers the electrical resistance of the plant surface by a factor of fifteen. This means less energy is needed to kill the plants. The patented formulation is based on mineral salts and organic additives that reduce the surface tension of water, enabling good coverage of the plant surface. Volt.fuel is also nitrate- and phosphate-free as well as low in chloride, and is approved for use in organic farming.  

Technological innovations for sustainable agriculture 

Since 2022, the system has been serially produced and “Made in Germany” and is already successfully in use in Europe. The technology consists of a power and application unit at the rear and a field sprayer at the front. A PTO-driven generator produces 400 V AC, which is converted into up to 5,500 V DC. High-voltage cables conduct the current to the applicators, which treat the plants crosswise. 

The electronics automatically regulate the maximum output of the applicators, depending on plant conditions. Two high-voltage circuits treat plant parts in and across the driving direction. Three parallel metal tubes generate the electric field that conducts the current both crosswise and lengthwise through the plants. This ensures an effective and uniform killing of the plants. 

Safety measures on the highest level 

To ensure safety, the system has multiple protective mechanisms. Two cutting discs ground the system and conduct stray currents away. The high-voltage units switch off as soon as the discs are raised or are not rotating sufficiently. In addition, covers on the applicators and emergency stop systems provide extra security. These measures guarantee that only the plants are treated and there is no danger to humans or animals. 

Effective application and cost-effectiveness 

The combination of generator, high-voltage units, and sprayer enables effective, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly desiccation. The total cost of ownership for potato desiccation is about 150 euros per hectare, which represents a cost saving of around 30% compared to conventional chemical methods. Typically, three chemical applications are done in Germany, whereas with the crop.zone system, usually only one treatment is necessary. 

Weather independence as an advantage 

A standout advantage of the crop.zone system is the weather independence, allowing for 24/7 operation as long as it is not raining heavily or there is no standing water in the field or on the ridges. This makes harvest planning more reliable and minimizes weather-related delays. The harvesting date can be planned well, and higher yields are generally possible. The system can also be used under adverse weather conditions, increasing flexibility in farming operations. 

Sustainability and environmental protection 

The crop.zone method is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly. It works without chemical agents and is therefore not subject to plant protection regulations. This significantly reduces the burden on the soil and the environment. The method does not affect the soil or soil organisms, thus contributing to a more sustainable agriculture that conserves the soil and secures long-term yields. 

Adaptability and versatility 

The system from crop.zone is extremely flexible and can be used for various applications. In addition to potato haulm desiccation, the method is also excellent for treating cover crops and weed control prior to crop emergence. These versatile uses make the system a valuable tool for farmers seeking environmentally friendly and effective plant treatment methods. 

Further development and innovation 

crop.zone continuously works on enhancing its systems. New technologies and improved applicators are tested and implemented to further increase efficiency and user-friendliness. The company relies on interdisciplinary knowledge from chemistry, biology, physics, ecology, and agronomy to develop innovative solutions for the challenges of modern agriculture. Ongoing research and development ensure that crop.zone will remain a leader in electric crop management in the future. 

About crop.zone 
crop.zone is one of the leading providers of large-scale electric crop management in Europe. Its complete solutions currently include herbicide-free desiccation, cover crop treatment, and weed control for professional farmers. 

Our professional systems provide safe, efficient, and cost-effective applications for professional farmers and contractors. Our serially produced, technologically advanced system achieves high-quality results while protecting the soil. crop.zone offers a solution for ecological and sustainable agriculture and thus contributes to our planet’s future. 

For more information about crop.zone and its innovative technology, visit www.crop.zone.