Maize is one of the most important crops in agriculture – whether for animal feed, energy production or as a raw material. Those who focus on innovative solutions can benefit not only economically, but also ecologically. The AgriMestMix system from Rinagro offers a well-thought-out total concept that combines manure processing and crop cultivation with measurable success.
What does the AgriMestMix system do with the manure and the maize plant?
The AgriMestMix system mineralizes the organic part already during storage time, which makes the organic bound nitrogen available faster and more evenly for the plant in question. However, research by circular terrain management (WUR) has shown that the availability of nitrogen also depends on the availability of other nutrients such as boron, magnesium and phosphates. The effect of these nutrients, which are important for crop growth, is considerable and clearly visible – especially in maize -.
Advantages for maize cultivation
For maize cultivation the system offers multiple options, on the one hand you can choose to apply the product during the winter period for optimum nutrient retention and pre-treatment time while another prefers to only mix before the manure is spread. A flexible system with both pros and cons.
However, both applications have positive effects on the crop. Thanks to the biological effect of the manure, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and trace elements are released more efficiently. The corn benefits from a more even nutrient supply, better root growth and increased stress resistance.
The accompanying photo shows a root comparison of the corn cultivation trial of last year. On the left is from the plot where a standard nitrification inhibitor was applied, here leaching still takes place, on the right is from the plot with the AgriMestMix system. Here it is clearly visible that the AgriMestMix system shows stronger root balls and more intensive root branching. A sign of improved soil health and nutrient availability and high biological activity in the soil.
Rooting is an important part of the corn plant and its development, this leads to better developed and healthier cob formation (think of full cobs and free of fusarium).
In addition, there are additional practical effects: less odour when spreading (reduction in emissions), fewer blockages in the manure tank (digestion of organic parts) and a better soil structure thanks to a more stable pH value.
Economic expectations – what does it yield?
The system is also profitable from an economic perspective, think of cost savings on the one hand; in the form of artificial fertilizers, but also pesticides and silage agents , and on the other hand the additional yields from better and higher yields.
An example calculation from a practical trial by IGLU in 2023 showed an additional yield of 6.8 tonnes of fresh produce (VP). With 100 ha of maize and 30 m³ digestate /ha, a company invests approximately €3,000 (at €1/m³). With an additional yield of 6.8t VP/ha and a feed value of €50/t VP, this results in an added value of €34,000.
The system then only yields more than 10 times the investment in net terms. Quality aspects such as cob health (Fusarium) or roughage efficiency have not even been included in this.
Conclusion: Get more out of your manure
The AgriMestMix system is much more than just an additive. Anyone who focuses on sustainable nutrient utilization and higher maize yields will find a practical and economically convincing instrument here.
For more information or a customized quote, please contact the Rinagro team – together we get more out of your manure!
Root comparison in maize cultivation: On the left the plot with nitrification inhibitor, on the right the plot with AgriMestMix from Rinagro.
Clearly visible: stronger root balls and more intensive root branching in the Rinagro plot – a sign of improved soil health and nutrient availability due to biologically activated manure.