04 Orbia Netafim has launched GrowSphere FLEX, a new smart irrigation and fertigation controller that is expected to help smaller farming operations adopt connected automation technologies. Founded in 1965, Orbia Netafim is the precision agriculture business of Orbia and a global leader in irrigation and digital farming technologies. With a strong North American presence supporting growers across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the company provides irrigation, fertigation, greenhouse, and digital agriculture solutions through an extensive network of manufacturing, technical, and distribution operations. The new controller becomes part of the company’s GrowSphere digital farming portfolio and is intended to serve growers who may not require the more advanced capabilities typically associated with large commercial farming operations. By focusing on accessibility, flexibility, and ease of installation, the technology is designed to provide an entry point into digital farming for a segment of the market that has often been underserved by precision agriculture solutions. Digital agriculture tools have gained significant traction across large-scale farming operations in recent years as growers seek more precise control over water, fertilizer, and crop management decisions. However, smaller operations frequently face challenges when evaluating automation systems, including infrastructure requirements, installation complexity, and investment costs. Orbia Netafim explained that GrowSphere FLEX was developed specifically to address those concerns while maintaining the benefits of connected irrigation management. The company noted that farms smaller than two hectares account for approximately 84 percent of farms worldwide and produce roughly one-third of the world’s food supply. These operations play important roles in local food production systems as well as global supply chains that support crops such as coffee, cocoa, fruits, vegetables, and specialty horticultural products. Despite their importance, many smaller producers have historically had limited access to advanced automation technologies that have become more common on larger farms. GrowSphere FLEX has been designed to support IRRIGATION AUTOMATION FOR SMALLER FARMS Orbia Netafim has expanded its digital farming portfolio with GrowSphere FLEX, a smart irrigation and fertigation controller designed to bring connected automation capabilities to smallholders and mid-sized farming operations. ANDREW JOSEPH, FARMS.COM GrowSphere FLEX features built-in cellular connectivity and integrates with Orbia Netafim’s GrowSphere Workspace platform for remote irrigation and fertigation management.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTQyMDk=