The combination of the Aurea TreeScout, a sensor system for fruit cultivation , with the Munckhof VariMAS sprayer and the Munckhof root cutter offers fruit growers worldwide a new, smart tool to increase yields as well as reduce costs. The self-learning smart camera is easily mounted on the roof of the orchard tractor and works seamlessly with both the VariMAS sprayer and the root cutter. This combination allows growers to monitor, analyse and target individual trees. The result: higher yields, more efficient use of resources and better balanced growth in the orchard. The TreeScout has recently become available through Munckhof’s dealer network.
Fully automated and tree-oriented cultivation with the TreeScout
The TreeScout is a new, self-learning sensor solution specially developed for daily practice in the orchard. Unlike drones, the TreeScout allows fruit growers to collect data independently at any time – even under hail nets. While driving, the camera automatically takes 3D images of each tree, both from above and from the side. It links these to a precise tree position via GPS technology. The Treescout images provide instant insight into tree characteristics, such as blossom density, fruit set, vitality, and vigour. In addition, the system detects abnormalities such as growth disorders, damage or the presence of pests such as pear bud beetle. Growers can take quick and targeted action, without the need for manual observation anymore.
Automatic spraying and root pruning per tree by data
The power of precision fruit growing lies in translating tree data into task-specific spraying and root pruning at tree level. The TreeScout analyses entire orchards and converts this data into task maps – digital instructions per tree. These maps are read into the GPS-controlled, Munckhof VariMAS sprayer and root cutter, which are also ISOBUS-compatible. Trees with low blossom are given growth stimulants, while excessive flowering is thinned for balanced production. During the growing season, vigour maps are made based on shoot length, after which only selected trees are given root pruning. Weakly growing trees are skipped. The sprayer and root cutter switch within 0.2 seconds per tree, ensuring resources are applied only where needed – without wastage.
Available through international dealer network
Field trials in the Netherlands, Germany, UK, South Tyrol and the United States show that precision fruit growing using the Munckhof VariMAS sprayer and root cutter produces up to 10% higher yields, depending on variety, plot and growing season. The site-specific application of agents also leads to savings of 30% to 50% on sprays, while labour input decreases and growers experience more overview and peace of mind thanks to automated processes. The technology is fully scalable and easy to integrate into existing orchard systems. Thanks to ISOBUS Plug and Play, interfacing with common tractors and machines is effortless. The TreeScout is now available through the Munckhof Fruit Tech Innovators dealer network (excluding the Netherlands and UK) and, in combination with Munckhof’s precision technology, constitutes a powerful total solution for row crop growers looking to invest in data-driven orchard management. More information: www.munckhof.org
