Machines

For many of our methods, suitable machinery does not yet exist. Large-scale mulch-based mixed cropping and the elimination of pesticides demand new technologies. Therefore, we modify existing machines and work closely with other machine innovators.

All machines

Developing areas

Align the machinery with Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF)

Tractor lane width icon

All machines need the same track width.

We opted for 1.77 m, a standard width in Swiss agriculture. Harvesting machines, in particular, are often wider. We use alternatives such as a plot combine or a bed-width elevator digger. These can be rented from us.

Icon RTK-GPS

All tractors are equipped with RTK GPS.

This allows us to achieve a tracking accuracy of ± 2 cm. A specially developed retrofit kit can be ordered from our partner Fink+Frosch.

Download CTF documentation

Loader wagon on a fixed lane in Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF), spreading mulch

Machines for mulching

Icon — converted mulch loader wagon

Our converted loader wagon spreads mulch.

It produces an even layer without manual adjustments. We can cover approximately 185 m per load.

Convert loader wagon (PDF)

Plant seedling in mulch icon

The MulchTec Planter plants directly in the mulch.

We can plant up to 3000 seedlings per hour this way.

MulchTec planter planting seedlings directly into mulch

Mechanical weed control

Icon — corkscrew power harrow

Our power harrow works biomass upwards.

Its tines are set to a grip and function like a corkscrew. Root weeds are brought to the surface where they dry out or are collected.

Inter-row mulcher icon

The inter-row mulcher reduces competition between vegetables and weeds.

We are also experimenting with it using undersown crops. The device can also be used within the mulch layer.

RapTrac inter-row mulcher

Partnership with Raptrac

Raptrac – partner of HofLabor

Raptrac is developing a multifunctional, electric implement carrier for regenerative strip cropping. We test and use the RapTrac for sowing, mechanical weed control and soil cultivation — including at the Adlisberg farm. See the machinery catalogue for details.

Hillbot is developing an electrically powered slope mower that performs its work fully automatically and weighs less than 50 kg.

Interested in our machines?

Want to know how to incorporate your machines into a mosaic? Would you like to visit us to see our machines? Are you interested in buying or renting one of our machines? Contact us!