The landscape of agricultural technology has seen significant transformations since the mid-20th century, with advancements in automation and tools reshaping industry practices. As we observe the year 2023, it becomes evident that many of the futuristic concepts envisioned in 1975, along with the challenges faced, have either materialised or evolved dramatically.
One of the greatest shifts has been the proliferation of smartphones, notably catalysed by the introduction of the iPhone, which has had a profound impact on various sectors, including horticulture. Chris Beytes, writing for GrowerTalks Magazine, elaborates on this change, stating that smartphones allow users to communicate and manage horticultural tasks with unprecedented efficiency. The ability to photograph crops and instantly consult technical experts, coupled with accessing extensive databases for plant care, reflects a level of connectivity that the early predictions of a video phone could not have imagined. This capability embodies the essence of modernity, demonstrating how technology has outpaced such earlier forecasts.
Despite these advancements, certain traditional aspects of the industry have remained surprisingly stable. For instance, the shipping rack, a piece of greenhouse technology first highlighted in GrowerTalks in 1973, has not undergone significant change. These racks have become essential for the logistics of moving plants across vast networks, facilitating efficient distribution and retail support. Initially developed by M.V. Nurseries in California, the standardisation of shipping racks by Denmark’s Container Centralen in 1977 established a framework that continues to underpin plant distribution in Europe today.
In pest management, the sector has transitioned from broad-spectrum chemicals used in the 1970s to more targeted, environmentally friendly alternatives. While growing operations now benefit from a broader selection of biological and bio-based control methods, pests remain a persistent challenge in cultivation. Beytes notes that, despite these advancements, pest control continues to rank as a significant concern for growers, indicating that not all challenges have been resolved.
Another dramatic shift within the industry is in the availability and cost of labour. In the
Source: Noah Wire Services