Using micro-sprinkling for frost prevention beyond tropical crops
For this reason, a Spanish grower and technician, Carlos Arenes, has studied the various anti-frost systems used in different parts of the world and has found one which is revolutionising the sector, based on the use of high flow micro-sprinklers with pulsators to make the plant wet. This pulsator is linked to a pressure-compensating dripper and a high flow rotating head with the capacity to throw between 200 and 300 litres per hour, but which through the action of the pulsator, only uses between 20 and 40 litres/hour, ensuring maximum distribution between trees, plants or bushes.
The system is designed to control frosts and protect the flowers, both during the flowering and the harvest periods, and having shown to be particularly efficient in crops with leaves. “While the irrigation process is underway, the bushes are at 0 °C, and thus a fine layer of ice is created which isolates them from the outside temperature (igloo effect),” says Carlos Arenes, one of the patent’s owners and distributors. “The latest tests carried out in blueberry plantations gave us excellent results. The branches, leaves and flowers were still intact after the process.”
“The system includes a small station which issues warnings to our mobile devices on what the temperature and dew point are at our plantation. This way, we can decide whether to turn it on or not,” explains Carlos Arenes.
The system was initially designed for tropical crops like avocados and mangoes, as well as citrus, but now, given the positive results, is being used with all kinds of top fruits, berries and stonefruits, which are now in the flowering period. The success with the tests has also led to its use with vegetables such as artichokes and Padrón peppers.
“The water drop size changes depending on the crop, to prevent, among other things, the branches from breaking as a result of the ice’s weight.”
Carlos Arenes affirms that it is the most affordable irrigation and frost control system available, taking into account that it saves up to 80% of the water normally used, with a cost per hectare of just around 15 Euro (approximately 20 $), with the system working for 10 hours. Its pieces can also be used unlimitedly.
The system has been marketed in the United States for four years and it arrived last year to Europe and the Middle East, where the opinions of those testing it have been nothing but positive. “Normally, those who try it, always come back to us. We insist on tests being carried out in small plantations, and not long after they always call us to request its installation in the entire acreage!”
For more information:
Carlos Arenes
Frost control
Tel: +34 962530388
Email: carlos@controheladas.com
www.controlheladas.com
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