SPRAYTEC MAGAZINE 02 ING

EDITORIAL Getting to know each other better Well, friends and readers of our magazine Spraytec Global, precisely one month after the release of the first edition, here we present the second one. So that gradually, all of us who make up the Spraytec world can join in and become familiar with what this magazine is about.

Our intention is to get to know each other better, exchange experiences, find out what is happening in the world - in our Spraytec world - not only in relation to our products or business activities but also, I insist, to know ourselves, the ones who are part of Spraytec. Our life, experiences, what it means to be uprooted, moving elsewhere and leaving family for a while, our hobbies, our other side. The idea is for everyone to join in, and for this platform we provide to clients, friends, and the team to increasingly foster more significant exchanges.

In this second edition, we will get to know Emilio Castellanos, a prominent figure from the company in the northwest region of Argentina. We interviewed Emerson Reis, Director of Business Development at Spraytec Fertilizers, discussing the current market situation in the USA and his future outlook. Facundo Menta explores a highly interesting topic: chemical fallow on soybean stubble. Nuala Szler investigates saffron cultivation, questioning whether it’s red gold, a myth, or simply a spice.

Additionally, the “Territorial Roots” section takes us on a journey to Maringá. Understanding this crucial point for Spraytec lets us know how and where the products we sell are developed. From the same region, Prof. Dr. Cláudia Regina Dias Arieira - State University of Maringá (UEM) - discusses nematodes, one of the main constraints to soybean productivity in Brazil, with estimated annual losses of approximately 16 billion reais. She evaluates how Pack Seed technology works for direct control or activation of resistance to Meloidogyne javanica and Pratylenchus brachyurus.

I hope it exceeds expectations!

Until the next edition!

Atentamente, Diego Parodi Presidente de Spraytec

SUMMARY

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Editorial

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Interview Emerson Reis - Establishment in the American market By: Juan Carlos Grasa

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Territorial roots Maringá

Research PACK SEED: POTENTIAL AND MODE OF ACTION IN THE CONTROL OF NEMATODES Prof. Dr. Cláudia Regina Dias Arieira

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Saffron. Is it red, myth or simply spice?

By: Nuala Szler

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Research Chemical fallows on soybean stubble By: Facundo Menta

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Identikit Emilio Castellanos

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Snapshots Producción General: Horizonte A ediciones

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INTERVIEW

Consolidation in the American market Juan Carlos Grasa Director of HorizonteA Emerson, tell us about the development of the brand in the United States.

Spraytec arrived in the United States in late 2014. At that time, we encountered American farmers and cooperatives who had been producing in a very traditional approach for many years, always doing things the same way. That’s where we saw a great opportunity because of our product portfolio, which is different from the regular products. It’s a line of application technology where a single Spraytec product can provide multiple benefits, instead of having to buy 3 or 4 different products.

This caught the attention of farmers due to the convenience of getting multiple benefits from just one product and also because of the low doses required to achieve good results. All of this attracted farmers and opened up significant opportunities for us.

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Spraytec arrived in the United States in 2014 and found a great opportunity by offering products that act differently from traditional ones. Their line of application technology has shown better results in disease control and plant development. Currently, they are present in 19 states with significant growth potential in the future. We interviewed Dr. Emerson Reis, Director of Business Development at Spraytec Fertilizers. He provides insights into the current state of the market in the USA and his vision for the future.

What were the most significant changes you observed when starting with this new treatment approach?

The problems we encountered here in the United States, such as soil diseases, nematodes, and sudden death, began to be addressed through our seed treatment. Despite farmers using conventional fungicides to mitigate these issues, a shift occurred once they began using our seed treatment – such as Brazil’s Pack Seed, Argentina’s Top Seed, the US Fulltec Plus ST, among other similar

products. Better results in controlling soil diseases and nematodes were observed.

Along with improved control, there was better plant development. These plants during germination and emergence gained speed, uniformity, and superior development compared to conventional treatment. This was another factor that provided us with growth opportunities. Additionally, in the United States, especially in the major states of the “Corn Belt,” the natural soil fertility is high, with organic matter ranging from 4% to 7%, which is quite significant.

This means that the soil is

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very fertile, and you can imagine how nutrients can contribute in such a situation.

Fertilization doesn’t always go hand in hand with crop planning.

Often, farmers don’t apply a lot of fertilizer, especially in the case of soybeans.

This process was interesting because farmers could understand the value of our products. The technology of smart nutrition provides the plant with nutrients at the moment it needs them.

They began to observe better flowering, pod retention, and, as a result, heavier grains.

Our nutritional line not only provides essential nutrients to improve plant development and productivity indicators but also has effects on disease reduction and control.

In this context, even in drier or wetter years, productivity has significantly increased.

This has led to an increase in our market share, with more customers each season. The performance of Spraytec products has been very positive.

states, from the southern to the northern regions of the United States, in the major agricultural states. We not only work with soybeans and corn but have also ventured into wheat, canola, sunflower, potatoes, beans, beets, and other specific crops in some states.

Nine years ago, you landed here in the United States. What is the current status of Spraytec in this country?

That’s an excellent question.

We are very impressed by the growth we have experienced and the speed of that growth.

There are many opportunities for us because our products are unique and offer nume-

Today, we are operating in 19

What do you think is the growth potential, is there a limit?

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It is essential that people have the ability to motivate and offer this technology to the farmer, and that this technology adds value to their business. rous benefits. We are growing, both with our current customers and by adding new customers every year, thanks to the efforts of our team.

Having a production plant here must be very beneficial.

Last year, we inaugurated our factory in the United States, in the state of Iowa. This means we produce 100% of our products in the United States, including raw materials and packaging, allowing us to be quick in product delivery to our customers. During the harvest season, having agile production is crucial, and now we have the capacity to do it right here. It’s a significant achievement!

How does a Brazilian feel living in the United States?

That’s a response that can vary from person to person, but many Brazilians find opportunities and a satisfactory quality of life in the United States. It’s a very enriching experience as we face some differences, from cultural matters to opportunities.

However, something very interesting is that the farmer, our customer, has the same mindset. They are the same anywhere in the world. All the products and tools used in the context of agriculture must make sense because farmers are very selective and demanding, especially here, where they only have one growing season a year.

That doesn’t happen in Argentina or Brazil either...

errors, second chances, or additional crops. The cultural and values aspect is also important. It’s a very enriching and rewarding experience because the path to success is universal. We understand that we need to work, persevere, and motivate the customer to learn about the products. And when the product is of high quality, that’s the combination that leads us to success, of course.

In that regard, it’s a different culture. There’s no room for

The success of Spraytec relies on both its

“We introduce Emerson Reis, Director of Business Development for Spraytec Fertilizers, a crucial part of our team. He began his journey with us working for Spraytec Brazil as our Director of Research and Development in October 2014. In August 2017, he was transferred to the USA, and since then, he has been helping us take significant strides, from leading our team to expanding across many states...we couldn’t do it without Emerson.”

Diego Parodi, CEO Spraytec Global.

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products and its human resources, do you agree with that?

Yes, it’s important to mention that human resources play a fundamental role. No matter how stable the market is, with many companies and similar products over the years, the introduction of something new, like Spraytec’s differentiated products and unique

technology that enhances application quality, nutrition, and health, makes a difference. Once the farmer values this in their business and sees how it increases productivity, they’ll want to continue down that path.

That’s why we are succeeding. It’s crucial for people to have the ability to motivate and offer this technology

to the farmer, and for this technology to add value to their business. It’s the same everywhere in the world.

Once the farmer understands that products A, B, C, or D benefit their crops, improve production and quality, they will choose to follow that path and use these products.

Thank you, Emerson!

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INVESTIGATION

PACK SEED: Profa. Dra. Cláudia Regina Dias Arieira State University of Maringá (UEM)

Introduction Nematodes are one of the main constraints to soybean productivity in Brazil, with estimated annual losses of approximately 16 billion Reais. Among the nematodes causing significant damage are gall nematodes (Meloidogyne javanica and M. incognita) and root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus brachyurus).

Controlling these nematodes is challenging due to their widespread geographic distribution and a variety of hosts, complicating the selection of crops for rotation. Consequently, there has been a growing interest in alternative management methods in recent years.

Research conducted in collaboration between Spraytec and the State University of Maringá in recent years has shown that the product Pack Seed has the potential for nematode control by activating defense mechanisms in the plant. These mechanisms enhance lignification of the cell wall, reducing nematode penetration and reproduction. Pack Seed is a complex mixture of compounds with different biochemical natures, 100% biodegradable for

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POTENTIAL AND MODE OF ACTION IN NEMATODE CONTROL

seed treatment. It stands out as a differentiated product, providing not only traditional Co and Mo but also macro and micronutrients, rooting agents, and amino acids. It is a comprehensive formulation for seed treatment and a promising alternative in nematode management, whether applied alone or in combination with other products.

Given that all control methods have limitations, research is needed to integrate management, such as studying plant nutrition. Understanding the mode of action of each product can explain whether they act independently or synergistically, thus optimizing nematode control in plants.

Objective: Evaluate the Pack Seed technology for direct control or activation of resistance to Meloidogyne javanica and Pratylenchus brachyurus.

Determine if the product inhibits the penetration of these nematodes into the root sys-

tem, reduces reproduction, and has a direct effect on egg hatching. Also, assess the production of resistance enzymes such as peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase in plants treated with Pack Seed.

Materials and Methods: The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with a completely randomized block design and six replications at the State University of Maringá, in the Municipality of Umuarama, State of Paraná.

Initially, soybean seeds treated and untreated with Pack Seed were sown in containers containing 700 ml of soil: sand (1:1), previously sterilized in an autoclave (120 ºC/2 h). In the same planting row, the inoculum of a population of 500 specimens of P. brachyurus or 2000 eggs of M. javanica was placed, distributed in a 4 ml solution volume. The inocula were obtained from pure populations of nematodes, maintained in soybeans in a greenhouse for 2 months, and extracted from the roots using the extraction process proposed

by Coolen and D’Herde. The analyzed variables were penetration and reproduction factor (10, 15, 20, and 25 days

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after planting), nematode hatching (7 days after planting), and resistance enzyme production (7 and 14 days after planting). The data obtained underwent variance analysis with a 5% probability of error, and in case of significance, the effect of Pack Seed was evaluated using the T-test at a 5% significance level.

Results: Pack Seed reduced the penetration of M. javanica and P. brachyurus in soybean roots, with a 78% reduction for the

total number of M. javanica and a 59% reduction for P. brachyurus. Pack Seed caused a reduction of up to 70% in the hatching of M. javanica juveniles and a mortality rate exceeding 83% for both nematodes. Pack Seed promoted an increase in peroxidase enzyme production at 7 and 14 days after planting (Figure 1) and total protein at 7 days for both nematodes. Pack Seed increased the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase enzyme at 7 days after planting for both nematodes (Figure 2). These enzymes are related to plant

defense mechanisms, primarily in the hardening of the cell wall, making it difficult for nematodes to penetrate, move, and feed. There was high mortality (83%) of juveniles.

Conclusion: Pack Seed, in addition to nourishing plants with N, P, K, S, Co, Mo, Zn, B, rooting agents, and amino acids to maximize their productive potential, is a promising alternative in nematode management by inducing plant defense mechanisms.

Figure 1

Figure 2

Specific activity of the peroxidase enzyme expressed in Δ 470 nm min^–1 mg^–1 of protein in soybean roots treated and untreated with Pack Seed, 7 and 14 days after planting and inoculation with Meloidogyne javanica.

Specific activity of the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase enzyme expressed in mg of trans-cinnamic acid h^–1 mg protein^–1 in soybean roots treated and untreated with Pack Seed, 7 days after planting and inoculation with Pratylenchus brachyurus and Meloidogyne javanica.

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THE EXCEPTIONALITIES

of saffron: red gold, myth or just a spice?

Nuala Szler

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he cultivation of saffron, at least in Argentina, still preserves the special detail of every manual and artisanal activity. It is a small-scale and family-oriented cultivation that still maintains the essence of the connection with nature, the intimate bond with the land.

Those who dedicate themselves to this labor, are the protagonists of the very process of life: witnesses of a greater, tireless transformation that is always ongoing, day after day. Like any other artisanal practice, saffron cultivation is the result of dedication and commitment, love and care, waiting and patience, absolute personal involvement. It is the small details, yet fundamental ones, that define a rich harvest.

A little bit of history If we delve into history and consult the experts at the INTA (stands for National Institute of Agricultural Technology), we discover that saffron cultivation made its way to Argentina with the arrival of Spanish and Italian immigrants during the past century. Proving to be a well-adapted agroecological crop in the region, was

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successfully cultivated in the Andean valley: from the province of Jujuy in the north to the province of Neuquén in the south. The same experts affirm that, although Argentina has imported significant quantities of saffron threads during the last seven years, achieving national self-sufficiency in the industry remains unfeasible at the moment, due to the fact that local production is still very small and expensive (the internationally paid price is almost equivalent to the expense of only harvesting and separating the spice). Additionally, saffron cultivation is also highly labor-intensive, which constitutes the main limiting factor for scaling up the production.

Due to circumstances like this, saffron cultivation remains a small-scale practice, whose development, although incipient, continues to take place mainly in family and artisanal production systems.

As stated in one of the latest updates by INTA on this crop, saffron proves to be a compelling and viable alternative for family farming because it is this sector that can provide the necessary labor, incorporating it as an additional activity within their production system. Indeed, saffron is not a crop one can exclusively make a living from, but it can

be a good way to diversify local family farming and take advantage of all its possible uses: the saffron that cannot be sold as a premium, can be used in the production of artisanal flavored preparations such as oils, beers, honey, cookies, pasta, chocolates, sweets, preserves, and even in cosmetics.

Production The diversity of saffron’s uses is as interesting as its production characteristics, which can be enumerated as follows: it is a crop suitable for autumn, winter and spring seasons; it requires moderately fertile soils; it has low irrigation requirements; simple tools are sufficient for working on it; the use of chemical inputs such as fertilizers or herbicides is minimal; the technology that requires is not significantly different from that used in other horticultural crops; its cultivation period makes it resilient against climate damage, particularly frost and hail; through a simple and economical artisanal drying process, the freshly harvested product is transformed into a virtually non-perishable one that can be stored for a long time; it contributes to crop diversification with minimal environmental impact.

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All these characteristics make saffron cultivation a viable option that is being considered by numerous small and medium-scale producers from different regions of Argentina. Another advantage of cultivating saffron is that requires minimal attention throughout most of the year, except during the flower harvesting period in autumn (between April and May, lasting 20 to 30 days depending on the temperatures during that time), and during the harvesting and planting of corms, which are carried out precisely in spring (October) and summer (February), respectively.

Cultivation However, not everything is as simple as it may seem.

In fact, the high economic value that saffron is sold in supermarkets can give us a hint. The saffron plant is highly temperature-dependent, and the thermal conditions in which the corms (bulbs from which the flowers sprout) are located, are crucial for their formation. To achieve the required thermal conditions, it is essential to plant them at a depth of 15 to 20 cm. The main challenge of saffron cultivation is its extremely low multiplication rate. Its only means of propagation is vegetative, through the annual

formation of “replacement corms” or propagules. This poses the main limitation to the spread of the crop: the scarcity of corms, which consequently are offered at very high prices.

As the producers themselves affirm, saffron only endures and exists because humans have reproduced it and taken care of its cultivation. Once the flower blooms, it must be harvested early in the morning. If saffron is not harvested during the day, it will quickly spoil. Within the flower, there are three yellow stigmas and three red stigmas, with the red ones being the saffron threads that are dried

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It takes only 250 grams of dried saffron for every kilogram of raw stigma and packaged. This drying and packaging process is essential for the proper preservation of the stigmas, as they have a high moisture content.

However, the drying process results in a significant reduction in weight, with only 250 grams remaining from every kilogram of raw stigma. This implies that approximately three-quarters of their original weight is lost. To give the reader an idea, at least 40,000 large bulbs are needed to obtain about 100,000120,000 flowers from which just 1 kilogram of saffron can be obtained (100 flowers = 1 gram of saffron). The handling of the harvest is as delicate as the previous cultivation stage, as we can see, it

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involves a complex process of cultivation, harvesting, and preservation. These stages of saffron production require the attention, time, commitment, and literally, the hands of the producers.

However, despite the apparent difficulties, many have started to cultivate saffron in Argentina, where this small-scale production not only holds tremendous promise but also actively encourages further expansion of saffron cultivation in the region. National production is mainly concentrated in the provinces of Mendoza and Córdoba, but research shows that the entire Andean region, from northern Patagonia in the south to the north in Jujuy, has potential. There are also small ventures operating for

several years in Rio Negro, La Rioja, and Catamarca. Therefore, an advocacy for saffron cultivation is gaining strength in the country.

This advocacy for saffron cultivation is not growing only because of increasing demand and profitability but also because the properties of the saffron plant have been numerous throughout history and remain so today. Saffron has been part of gastronomy, of course, as well as in traditional medicine in many cultures. It has been used since ancient times to aid digestion, relieve coughs, regulate menstruation cycles, relax muscle spasms, improve the mood, and alleviate anxiety.

Some of its components have even been shown to have antitumor properties, suggesting that its use may continue to expand in the future.

Red Gold Metaphorically, saffron has been and continues to be called “red gold.” It is the most expensive spice in the world, hence the comparison to gold itself. However, for those determined to participate in the trade of this renowned spice, a meticulous study of its

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quality is essential, and there are strict standards that producers must know in order to produce saffron of the highest quality. The coloring power of saffron is the main indicator, along with its flavor and aroma, of its quality: the higher the values of crocin, the carotenoid responsible for the color of the stigmas, the higher the category to which saffron belongs. Despite a rigorous examination, coupled with the fact that achieving such superior quality requires hard work, it is unfortunately common for saffron that fails to meet these standards to be falsely marketed as high-quality. Furthermore, it has become an issue that simple dyes are fraudulently sold as saffron. All of this contributes to the production of high-quality saffron maintaining its exclusivity, which has always characterized it, and not losing its exorbitant value.

Mythology of the Saffron Flower

The exclusivity that characterizes saffron is also reinforced by the mythological and symbolic meaning that this plant has connoted over time.

The saffron flower is called Crocus sativus, a name that some believe originates from a tragedy narrated by the roman poet Ovid, in which Crocus pursued the young nymph Smilax in order to make her fall in love with him, and where the gods eventually transformed him into a striking flower to attract his beloved’s attention. At that time, it was also believed that saffron, in large quantities, had hallucinogenic properties. As an example of this, it is said that Emperor Nero, imitating Zeus, slept with his head resting on a saffron-filled cushion to make his dreams more interesting. Similarly, throughout antiquity, saffron continued to be highly valued and used as a medicine, dye, and seasoning. The Middle Ages further solidified the trust in the medicinal qualities of saffron,

100 flowers are equivalent to 1 gram of saffron and even in contemporary times, long lists of these qualities are still compiled, some of which have already been mentioned.

If we want to continue enumerating the exceptional qualities of saffron, we could only add that those of us who simply consume it can affirm that it is the only spice capable of captivating our sight, taste, and smell all at the same time and with equal intensity.

Its noble versatility enchants everyone, regardless of personal preferences.

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TERRITORIAL ROOTS

THE GREEN CITY OF SOUTHERN BRAZIL

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araná - Located in the southern region of Brazil, the State of Paraná is a wonder that combines an interesting history, extensive cultural diversity and a constantly growing economy. Known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Iguazú Falls, Paraná offers its visitors and inhabitants a unique experience in the heart of South America.

History and culture The history of Paraná dates back to the time of Portuguese colonization in Brazil, when the first European explorers began to enter the territory. The indigenous culture also left its mark on the region. The mix of indigenous, African and European influences has given rise to a diverse culture rich in traditions, music and gastronomy.

One of the most emblematic historical events in Paraná was the War of Contestado, a conflict that took place in the early 20th century and involved impoverished communities fighting for land and social justice. This war left an indelible mark on the collective memory of the region

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and is a recurring theme in local culture and art.

In addition, the region is known for its rich gastronomic tradition, with dishes such as “barreado” (a meat stew), “carne de onça” (a raw meatbased dish) and the delicious “paçoca” (a dessert based on peanuts). Folk music and dance, such as “fandango” and “viola fashion”, also play an important role in Paraná culture.

Economy and Development Paraná is one of the most prosperous states in Brazil and plays a fundamental role in the country’s economy. Agriculture is one of the main economic drivers, with significant production of soybeans, corn, wheat and sugar cane.

The automotive and manufacturing industries have also developed rapidly in recent years.

The State’s modern infrastructure, which includes first-class ports and roads, facilitates trade and transportation of products to the national and international market. In addition, the hy-

droelectric energy generated by the Itaipú dam, located on the border with Paraguay, contributes significantly to the energy capacity of Brazil and the region.

Iguazu Falls

One of the main attractions of Paraná are the majestic Iguazú Falls, considered one of the natural wonders of the world. Stretching along the border between Brazil and Argentina, these falls are a testament to the splendor of nature. Visitors can explore Parque Nacional do Iguaçu on the Brazilian side and Parque Nacional do Iguazú on the Argentine side, both declared World Heritage Sites

by UNESCO. The relationship between Paraná and Argentina is close, and cross-border cooperation in waterfall management is an example of this.

Together, both countries are working to preserve this natural treasure and promote sustainable tourism in the region.

The State of Paraná, Brazil, is a place where history, culture and economy are harmoni-

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ously intertwined. Its historical and cultural roots, thriving economy, and stunning natural beauty make Paraná a must-see destination in South America. The region is an example of how diversity and collaboration can lead to a unique experience for its inhabitants and visitors.

Maringá Within this State, there is an interesting city in which we will delve deeper.

Maringá, the green city of southern Brazil, is an urban enclave that has achieved a unique balance between development and conservation.

With a rich history, growing demographics and abundant native jungle surrounding it, Maringá is a special place that combines modern life with a deep respect for nature.

History The history of Maringá dates back to the 20th century, when the region was covered in native jungle. However, in 1929, the Northern Paraná Land Company (Companhia Melhoramentos Norte do Paraná) began a colonization project that transformed the region into fertile land for agriculture. The city of Maringá was officially founded on May 10, 1947 and grew rapidly, becoming an important economic and cultural center in the State of Paraná.

Demography Today, Maringá is home to

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more than 400,000 inhabitants, making it one of the largest cities in the State of Paraná. The city’s diverse and vibrant population reflects the mix of cultures and ethnicities that has arrived over the years. Education and quality of life are high in Maringá, making it an attractive place for both Brazilians and international immigrants.

Native Jungle Areas What makes Maringá truly special is its natural environment. The city is surrounded by areas of native jungle, including areas of the Atlantic Forest, a unique tropical biome that is home to an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna. The Atlantic Forest is one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world and Maringá has taken significant measures to protect and conserve this natural treasure.

One of the most emblematic places in the vicinity of Maringá is the Parque Estadual do Bosque dos Pioneiros, a natural space that offers a perfect escape from urban life. This park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a wide variety of birds and wildlife.

Visitors can enjoy the native rainforest in its purest state and appreciate the unique biodiversity of the region.

In addition, the city has implemented reforestation and conservation programs to protect the fragments of native jungle that remain in its territory, demonstrating its commitment to the environment and sustainability.

Cathedral The Cathedral Basilica Minor of Our Lady of Glory of Maringá (in Portuguese Catedral Basílica Menor de Nossa Senhora da Glória de Maringá), or simply Cathedral of Maringá, is a Brazilian Catholic cathedral and minor basilica located in Maringá under the dedication of Our Lady of Glory. Completed in 1972, it has an approximate height of 124 m (406’ 10″), making it considered the tallest church in Latin America and one of the tallest in the world.

The design of the cathedral, based on the idea of ​​ Archbishop Dom Jaime Luiz Coelho and carried out by the Brazilian architect José Augusto Bellucci, is inspired by the satellites of the Sputnik Program, particularly in the conical shape of the cathedral; For its part, the first stone, a block of marble originating from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and blessed by Pope Pius XII, was laid on August 15, 1958. It was built between July 1959 and May 10, 1972, on the city’s twenty-fifth anniversary. Later, on January 21, 1982, it was elevated to the rank of minor basilica.

Parque Do Ingrá Parque do Ingá is a forest reserve, a piece of jungle in the middle of the city, it has a rich flora and fauna. Along the way you can see the different animals that live there. The park offers trails for walking, running and biking. It is an excellent option to connect with nature, have a picnic and exercise.

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Maringá is a city that impressively combines its urban growth with the preservation of its natural treasures.

JAPAN Park The park was born with a brotherhood agreement between Maringá and the city of Kakogawa in Japan, the agreement was signed on July 2, 1973, allowing the exchange of sociocultural and economic information for the development of the two cities.

The Parque do Japon de Maringá was inaugurated in 2014, its “Japan Memorial Imin 100 Park” project appeared in 2006 with the purpose of paying tribute to all the immigrants who settled in Maringá, especially the Japanese who, in 2008 They celebrated 100 years of Brazil. The project was developed in 2005 and was directed by Mayor Sílvio Magalhães Barros II. He soon received help from Kakogawa Mayor Shoichi Tarumoto, who assembled a team for the job.

The place chosen to house the Japanese park was a permanent preservation area (APP), with a spring and a stream. This park is in honor

of the Japanese immigrants who colonized the region. It has a large monument at the entrance in honor of Japanese immigration. The Japanese koi pond is indescribable and there are also cherry trees.

Honorary Citizen Alfredo Werner Nyffeller was born in Basel, Switzerland, on August 16, 1907. He arrived in Brazil with his parents in 1923, at the age of 16, in search of land. After a period of residence in Rio de Janeiro, they moved to Cambará, Paraná, where he met his future wife, Silvia Cecília.

In 1942 he bought a vast land in Maringá, between what is now Jardim Alvorada and Vila Morangueira. He called it Fazenda Maringá and established his coffee plantation there. In 1947 he settled in the city, where he began to manage the office of the then Companhia de Terras Norte do Paraná which, years later, would change its corporate name to Companhia Melhoramentos Norte do Paraná.

Alfredo Nyffeler died on March 16, 2001, at the age of 94. Today, an important park bears his name. Located in Vila Morangueira, the Alfredo Werner Nyffeler Park was inaugurated in October 1988.

With more than 104 thousand m², it is considered one of the most beautiful environmental facilities in the city of Maringá.

Conclusion Maringá is a city that impressively combines its urban growth with the preservation of its natural treasures. Its story of transformation from jungle lands to a thriving metropolis is a testimony to the human capacity to live in harmony with nature. Diverse demographics and preservation of the native rainforest make Maringá a unique place in Brazil, celebrating both its cultural heritage and its natural environment. This city is a reminder that sustainable development is possible and can be a model for other regions seeking a similar balance.

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INVESTIGATION

CHEMICAL FALLOW ON SOYBEAN STUBBLE The opportunity to be more efficient and sustainable Facundo Menta Agricultural Engineer

W

ith the advent of no-till farming in Argentina, we have introduced the term “chemical fallow” into our jargon, referring to the period of time that elapses between the initial application for weed control after the harvest and the planting of the next crop in a planned rotation. In addition to reducing the incidence of these unwanted species within the system, this practice aims to preserve soil moisture levels to safeguard the availability of this resource for the subsequent crop. In this regard, fields coming out of summer crops like corn, due to the characteristics of the stubble left after the field is cleared, present certain challenges when it comes to weed control post-emergence.

The complexity of the task is related to the location of these “weeds,” which are the target of these applications.

A significant portion of the target population will be situated in areas that are very difficult for

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the active ingredient-carrying droplets to reach and achieve the desired herbicidal effect.

On the other hand, fields following soybean cultivation, due to the structure and density of the residue left after the harvest, do not pose major issues from the perspective of weed control during the “chemical fallow.” The degree of exposure of the target to moisture is quite high, making it an accessible target for the arrival of droplets with active ingredients that enable the desired control.

We are talking about more than fifteen million hectares of extensive agricultural production in our country, which present these conditions year after year, offering us the great opportunity to achieve more efficient and sustainable applications in this regard. Let’s analyze where the challenge lies.

Although it may sound repetitive, we know that the process of correctly applying phytosanitary products begins with having a clean, well-maintained, and properly calibrated equipment. It continues with the preparation of the product and ad-

juvant mixture in the tank, always following the correct loading sequence and avoiding incompatibilities. The next step is the fragmentation of the spray solution and the release of droplets into the environment for their journey toward the target, where the impact will occur, and the subsequent deposition of the droplet, ultimately allowing the entry of the active ingredient that triggers the desired biological effect.

Ensuring the necessary level of coverage on the weeds to be controlled, using droplet sizes that are as safe as possible from the perspective

Figure 1 Key points to consider for adjusting to the appropriate spraying technique.

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of potential drift risk, is the main challenge of chemical fallow applications in this type of stubble.

Additionally, there is the added benefit of achieving this through the lowest possible water volumes per hectare that ensure equipment with greater autonomy, resource conservation, and the generation of more concentrated and effective droplets. It is essential to begin to understand that water is merely the means of transporting phytosanitary products. Hence, the importance of generating the appropriate droplet pattern and size to ensure the correct performance of the applied products. It becomes crucial, then, to refresh concepts such as prior knowle-

dge of the specific characteristics of the products to be used, especially their systemic level, the correct determination of the target location for moisture, as well as an awareness of the environmental context in which the application will take place.

This preliminary analysis before any spraying, as I always say, will form the triangle to address in order to configure variables accurately.

In the task of quantifying the issue at hand, field target testing was conducted on soybean stubble to measure the “droplet arrival level” on uncovered weeds located in easily accessible areas.

This situation essentially represents the entirety of the target to be controlled in chemical fallows under “light stubble.” We aimed to assess the resulting coverage levels in these areas by using medium to large droplet sizes at different volumes per hectare. In an effort to adapt the available boom-level technology, we compared two different nozzle spacings to understand the impact of reducing the application rate while maintaining the same pressure and forward speed.

After evaluating the hydrosensitive cards, we will examine the implications of this practice on various droplet size indicators: VMD, DV01, DV05, DV09. As a side note, it is essential to emphasize that for the comparison in question (and as in most me19

Figure 2 y 3 Left: Characteristics of the 2 application techniques to be evaluated through comparison. Right: Top: Droplet size per table generated by the TurboTeeJet (TT) 110-02 nozzle at different working pressures (TeeJet Catalog). Bottom: Classification of droplet sizes in microns according to ASAE S-572 Standard.

asurements via “target testing”), the correct placement of the hydrosensitive cards, always close to the target, becomes crucial for obtaining reliable data.

Spraying was carried out in a productive corn field using a self-propelled sprayer, applying systemic products (remembering the requirement of 20-30 impacts/cm²) along with an adjuvant based on a surfactant and anti-evaporant. A low-drift flat fan nozzle “martillito” TT 11002 was used. It operated at a pressure of 3 bars and a speed of 17 km/h, delivering a volume of 80 lts/ha with a spacing of 35 cm between

nozzles and a volume of 40 lts/ha for a 70 cm spacing between nozzles. It should be noted that this latter spacing results from disabling every other nozzle in the original configuration. The weather conditions measured during the evaluation were as follows: average wind speed of 3 km/h and average Delta T of 8.2°C. As can be observed from the target tests, the coverage level resulting from the 40 lts/ ha application technique is reduced to nearly half compared to the higher application rate technique (going from 75 impacts/cm² to 37 impacts/cm²). The number

of impacts continues to be sufficient to meet the requirements of the systemic herbicides applied, but with the hypothetical advantage of working with droplets that are doubly concentrated in active ingredients. It’s worth noting that the droplet population size in both cases remained with very few variations, as indicated by the different analyzed droplet size indicators. These differences are logical, considering that there was no modification of the working pressure. The minimal variations between the size indicators of the impacts are likely explained by the overlap of droplets on the card resulting from applying

Guide the definition of techniques that ensure sufficient coverage levels on the target, using droplet sizes suitable to fulfill said mission.

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Figure 4 y 5 Data obtained from the variables VMD, DV01, DV05, DV09, and Impacts/cm² for each evaluated application technique, according to the volume/ha used. Field weather conditions during the test: Average wind speed of 3 km/h, average Delta T of 8.2°C. Menta F. 2022, unpublished data.

the higher evaluated volume, which in many cases cannot be discerned by the card analysis software, resulting in slightly larger diameters.

We continue to add field examples that highlight the importance of measuring the results of our applications

using cards, the way to quantify spray work to guide the definition of techniques that ensure sufficient coverage levels on the target, using droplet sizes suitable for this mission. Additionally, we aim to do this through techniques that make more efficient use of the water resource, providing our equipment with

greater working autonomy by adapting available technology as needed. Measurement, as always, gives us the opportunity to correct and improve, or validate what we are doing correctly. Let’s work to be both efficient and sustainable when it comes to treatments within the current agricultural system.

Figura 6 Field hydro-sensitive cards resulting from the comparison.

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IDENTIKIT

EMILI

I have been an Agricultural Engineer since 2011. I have been working at Spraytec since 2013, where I am in charge of the NOA region (Salta, Tucumán, Jujuy, and Santiago del Estero). I am married to Carmela Alfarano, and we have 3 children: Guillermina (12), Valentina (10), and Jeremias (5).

“Born in Salta Capital, Argentina, I have been involved in agriculture my whole life, as my family owns a farm in Rosario de la Frontera, Salta. I attended high school at the Martin Miguel de Güemes agrotechnical school, and I graduated from the National University of Salta as an Agricultural Engineer. I have acquired knowledge in sales and customer advisory for both intensive and extensive crops. I enjoy visiting farmers, meeting new people, and understanding their work methods depending on the areas they operate in, allowing me to tailor Spraytec’s recommendations to their scale and production systems.

When Spraytec offered me the opportunity to develop the region, it was quite a challenge because the brand and products were not well known. Today, our products are requested in quotations, and that’s a great source of satisfaction for the time and effort we have invested.

Outside of work, I enjoy playing soccer, spending time with friends and family while enjoying a good barbecue... and if possible, some good guitar playing too.”

Tell us about your passion for the guitar and singing.

In Salta you hear folk music from a young age, and as they say, there’s a singer on every corner. But, above all, my grandfather used to sing and was part of a folk group.

Who is your musical role model, and why did you choose them?

To be honest, I don’t have a 22

single role model. In Salta, there are many great singers, both famous and amateurs, and they come from various styles, depending on the region within the province. I also enjoy listening to other music genres.

Would you have liked to make a living from music?

Actually, it’s a hobby for me, something to share with friends. But I always wanted

CAST to be an Agricultural Engineer and make a living from farming.

Who made you a Boca Juniors fan?

My grandfather and my dad.

How do you see the growth of biostimulants in general, and especially in your area of influence?

I believe it’s a technology that’s gaining more and more acceptance due to its ease of use and cost-effectiveness.

It’s not just specialty crop producers who are using it; even commodity crop producers (soy, corn, and wheat) are now adopting it to avoid losses caused by herbicide phytotoxicity or other specific issues, making the most of the application.

Tell our global friends: Who was Martin Miguel de Güemes?

He was a Gaucho hero born in Salta, who, along with his fellow Gauchos, helped other national heroes like San Martin and Belgrano during the War of Independence by leading the northern army. Until recently, he was considered a provincial hero, but today he’s recognized as a national hero, as he deserves.

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TELLANOS What kind of future do you imagine for your country?

I try to be optimistic and hope for a change for the better, especially for my children. The change won’t be immediate, but I hope they will experience a better place to live and progress.

Would you live in another place?

Honestly, no. I’m so attached to my family and friends that uprooting myself would be quite challenging.

Which friends should never be missing at a barbecue organized by you?

There are several types!

There are the fun ones who never stop talking, the ones who love to play the guitar, and the ones with whom you can have deep philosophical conversations.

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