NZ growers most popular Da Ros Potting Machine I3-P has customer Scott Lilley smiling as productivity soars.
“It’s a machine! Averaging 6,000 a day but I reckon we can push closer to 8,000 soon. If we could stack faster in the yard we could do 15,000 a day.”
Being a relatively well-priced machine makes the I3-P is an excellent choice for hard-working plant producers.
Meanwhile, the team at Awa Nursery are thrilled with the results they’re getting from their new Da Ros LI5 Potting Machine. Production Manager, Corey Ronaldson points out the productivity gains.
“We were hand-potting 30,000 per month and now we can achieve that in 5 days with just 2 people on the machine! It means we’re not having to pot 5 days a week, we’ve now gained 2 days a week to work on maintenance and other areas of the business. My advice to other nurseries? Go for it – the programming is easy, it’s simple to use – literally just press play and go.”
Two people work the machine while others are kept busy deflasking and loading trailers. Productivity has boomed, but Corey also likes how they are no longer falling behind with planting and have gained time to focus on other areas.
PrimeHort have carefully selected their range of Da Ros Potting Machines for their high performance and simplicity. Safety has been a big focus too, along with their ability to work with a wide range of Thermoformed Pots at adjustable speeds.
Who is Da Ros?
Established in 1986 and based in Italy, Da Ros are pioneers in the horticulture industry. PrimeHort has represented the brand since 2013. Along with a commitment to product development, Da Ros have a philosophy of engaging with customers to constantly improve their offering.
Fabio is the Senior Sales Manager at Da Ros and has visited NZ many times. In November, we welcomed him back and visited several nurseries together. Growers took the opportunity to discuss Nursery Automation for stronger yields and productivity, and Fabio shared updates from nurseries around the world.
When considering a Potting Machine, it’s essential to look at the features and specifications of each particular model. Factors such as the types of pots it can handle, the speed of operation, and the level of automation are all crucial considerations. Our specialised team can help. Good stock certainty for nursery pots will also be essential. We have an excellent range of pots that are ideal for these hardworking machines.
To summarise the benefits for investing in a Da Ros Potting Machine:
- Efficiency and Productivity: Potting machines automate the process of filling pots with soil or growing medium, reducing the need for manual labour. This can significantly increase efficiency and productivity for growers.
- Consistency: Automated potting machines can ensure a consistent and uniform fill of pots, leading to more standardised growing conditions for plants. This consistency is crucial for crop quality and yield.
- Time Savings: By automating the potting process, growers can save a significant amount of time compared to manual potting. This time savings allows for a more streamlined production process with minimal labour required to work the machines – freeing staff up to work on other initiatives.
- Cost Reduction: While there is an initial investment in purchasing a potting machine, the long-term cost savings from increased efficiency, reduced labour costs, and improved consistency can be substantial.
- Precision and Accuracy: Potting machines can be programmed to dispense a precise amount of growing medium into each pot, ensuring accurate and uniform potting. This precision is important for the optimal growth of plants.
- Reduced Physical Strain: Manual potting can be physically demanding work. Potting machines can help reduce the physical strain on staff, contributing to a safer and healthier working environment.
- Flexibility: Many potting machines are designed to handle a variety of pot sizes and types, providing growers with flexibility in their operations.
- Scale-Up Capability: As commercial growers expand their operations, potting machines can easily scale up to meet increased production demands.
Please get in touch if you would like help with your nursery automation needs, we would be delighted to assist.
