The research in 2010/2011:

Furthermore, keeping a –scientifically substantiated– record of the environmental effects is a must: reducing N use and activating soil life by avoiding compaction caused by alternative processing times.  The latter is not only beneficial in terms of improving the soil structure; it also contributes to the agro-biodiversity, which includes fungi, bacterium and soil life. Less compaction means less damage to the soil life.

The search for more suitable (forage) maize varieties for this system is a long-term process. Fertilising and crop protection must be location specific.

The biodegradability of the type of film used on lighter soils was also too lengthy, which meant that other types had to be used for research purposes.

The research results must ultimately form an economic basis for the decisions to invest by all parties involved.

The results of the project Mais under film in 2010:

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Retrospect and results

Results:
Energy 2010

Starch 2010

Expected results 2010/2011:

1. Improved yield (40 – 45 ton ds/hectare) as a result of more specific nutrient use
2. Comparable sugar and starch levels with 2009 results
3. No phosphate use and still a successful crop
4. N(-S) application in accordance with the Good Agricultural Practice recommendation/increased mineralisation in strips of (forage) maize under film (2010)
5. Reduced N-use
6. Increased soil life in strips of (forage) maize under film (2011)
7. Improved understanding of the varieties used in combination with improved sowing period (too early is also possible)
8. Sowing green manure crop (September) (to be demonstrated to other farmers by a number of participants in the project)