Chisamba (Zambia) 12 April 2018 – Holland Greentech(HGT) a supplier of inputs and technical support for the high-quality horticulture sector, introduces SoilCares real time soil testing in Zambia. The soil tests will be performed with a Soil Scanner developed by SoilCares, a developer of innovative precision farming technology and now part of AgroCares. The SoilCares/AgroCares Scanner will be added to the full package of agricultural services that Holland Greentech offers for the horticulture business. The package will be shown on the Agritech expo in Chisamba in Zambia from 12 – 14 April.
How does real time soil testing work?
The Scanner in combination with apps on a smartphone enables advisors to test pH level and soil fertility levels (NPK) and receive practical recommendations on lime and nutrients within 10 minutes.
How does SoilCares technology work?
The sensor technology developed by SoilCares uses infrared technology in combination with a global calibration database. In this in-house developed database the electromagnetic spectrum of soil samples of a large part of the world is stored together with the chemical characteristics. The user is provided with information about soil fertility levels and practical recommendations from the database via an app on his smartphone.
Christy van Beek, Soil scientist at SoilCares: “We are very happy that Holland Greentech will start providing soil testing services with our Soil Scanner in Zambia. We have a similar integrated approach to agriculture. Our soil testing services will become part of their complete agricultural package for the horticulture business. Secondly, we also believe in their local capacity building approach where they provide free trainings to their local staff on a weekly basis.”
Patricia Mwansa, agronomist and product developer at Holland Greentech: “Holland Greentech believes that real time soil testing is what farmers need to make timely decisions about what crops to grow, their specific lime and fertilizer requirements in a quick, logical and easy to understand manner. It not only provides the nutrient status information, but also advises farmers on the quantities of nutrients to add – and suitable alternatives which are all locally available – at specific stages of growth. This we believe is guidance our farmers need to farm more efficiently, improve their yields and add value to their production.”
Agritech Expo
You can find SoilCares and Holland Greentech on the Agritech Expo in Chisamba from 12 – 14 April.
About Holland Greentech
Holland Greentech (HGT) strengthens the horticulture business of (mainly) Dutch horticulture suppliers in Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia and Kenya by selling inputs and providing technical support for the high-quality horticulture sector. The company provides state-of-art technology and expertise on the cultivation and handling of vegetables. HGT is active in 4 countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Zambia.
Are you interested in providing soil testing services with the Scanner in Zambia? Contact us now to discuss the opportunities!