scholarly journals Precise Placement and Variable Rate Fertilizer Application Technologies for Horticultural Crops

2010 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 34-40 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arnold W. Schumann
Keyword(s):  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
High Speed ◽  
Nutrient Management ◽  
Root Zone ◽  
Fertilizer Application ◽  
Uniform Field ◽  
Variable Rate ◽  
Uptake Efficiency ◽  
Horticultural Crops ◽  
Florida Citrus

Fertilizer spreaders capable of variable rate application are increasingly important for enhancing nutrient management in horticultural crops because they improve placement and increase nutrient uptake efficiency. Matching applied fertilizer to fertilizer requirements represents a significant input cost saving for the grower and a reduction in potential pollutant loading to ground and surface water. Variable rate fertilization (VRF) is a precision agriculture technology made possible by embedded high-speed computers, accurate Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, yield or soil maps, actuators, and electronic sensors capable of measuring and even forecasting crop properties in real time. For tree crops like Florida citrus (Citrus spp.), the most important function of the VRF spreader is to detect and avoid fertilizing spaces of the orchard not occupied by trees. Treeless spaces are becoming more common in Florida as diseases such as citrus greening (Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus) and canker (Xanthomonas axonopodis) cause the removal of thousands of trees every year. VRF works best under those conditions. Because VRF exploits crop and soil variability, it has no value in a perfectly uniform field. VRF enables smaller trees including resets to be fertilized at lower, most appropriate rates, thus minimizing any excess application. This article examines the existing knowledge on using precision agriculture and variable rate technology to keep water and nutrients in the root zone of horticultural crops, thus facilitating maximum uptake efficiency.

scholarly journals Precision for Smallholder Farmers: A Small-Scale-Tailored Variable Rate Fertilizer Application Kit

Agriculture ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 48 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jelle Van Loon ◽  
Alicia Speratti ◽  
Louis Gabarra ◽  
Bram Govaerts
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
Smallholder Farmers ◽  
Nutrient Status ◽  
Fertilizer Application ◽  
Application Rate ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Variable Rate ◽  
User Friendliness ◽  
The Right

Precision agriculture technology at the hands of smallholder farmers in the developing world is often deemed far-fetched. Low-resource farmers, however, are the most susceptible to negative changes in the environment. Providing these farmers with the right tools to mitigate adversity and to gain greater control of the production process could unlock their potential and support rural communities to meet the increasing global food demand. In this study, a real-time variable rate fertilizer application system was developed and tested as an add-on kit to conventional farm machinery. In the context of low investment costs for smallholder farmers, high user-friendliness and easy installment were the main concerns for the system to be viable. The system used nitrogen (N)-sensors to assess the plant nutrient status on the spot and subsequently adjust the amount of fertilizer deposited according to the plant’s needs. Test bench trials showed that the add-on kit performed well with basic operations, but more precision is required. Variability between N-sensors and metering systems, combined with power fluctuations, created inaccuracies in the resulting application rate. Nevertheless, this work is a stepping stone towards catalyzing the elaboration of more cutting-edge precision solutions to support small-scale farmers to become successful, high producing agro-entrepreneurs.

A Study on the Time Lag and Compensation of a Variable-Rate Fertilizer Applicator

2021 ◽  
Vol 37 (1) ◽  
pp. 43-52
Author(s):  
Jinqin Zhang ◽  
Gang Liu ◽  
Jiayun Huang ◽  
Yaohui Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
Control Function ◽  
Detection System ◽  
Time Lag ◽  
Lag Time ◽  
Fertilizer Application ◽  
Compensation Method ◽  
Rate Change ◽  
List Type ◽  
Variable Rate

HighlightsA lag time detection system for variable-rate fertilization was developed.The lag time of a variable-rate fertilizer applicator was obtained and analyzed.A sigmoid equation was fitted to the data of rate change transition tests.The planar coordinates-based lag distance compensation method (LDCM) could reduce the lag distance effectively.Abstract. The location accuracy of fertilizer application is an essential aspect of the performance of variable-rate fertilizer applicators. The lag time of the fertilization system is an important cause of fertilizer rate transition lags. In order to obtain the lag time and make proper corrections, we developed a lag time detection system for a fluted roller-based variable-rate fertilizer applicator, taking into account the distance between the on-tractor GNSS antenna and the applicator furrow openers, and applied a planar coordinates-based lag distance compensation method (LDCM) to reduce the lag distance. To verify the performance of the LDCM, we conducted fertilization tests with and without LDCM at tractor forward speeds of 3.8, 5.5, and 8 km/h. First, the lag time detection sensors were installed on the fertilizer applicator, and the lag times were measured. Then, the corrected relative position coordinates of the fertilizer outlets were calculated according to the real-time speed and position data from the GNSS receiver. By implementing the control function of the applicator, the fertilization lags were corrected. A sigmoid equation was fitted to the rate change transition data. The results showed that for rate changes from 200 to 325 kg/ha, the delay distances were reduced from 1.10 to -0.84 m (at V = 3.8 km/h), from 1.97 to 0.09 m (at V = 5.5 km/h), and from 6.38 to 0.80 m (at V = 8 km/h). As a result, the LDCM can efficiently decrease lag distances of the variable-rate fertilizer applicator and meet the requirements of accurate fertilization in precision agriculture. Keywords: Fertilization lag, Lag distance compensation, Lag time, Variable-rate fertilization.

scholarly journals FARMER PERCEPTIONS OF PRECISION AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGY BENEFITS

2018 ◽  
Vol 51 (1) ◽  
pp. 142-163 ◽  
Author(s):  
NATHANAEL M. THOMPSON ◽  
COURTNEY BIR ◽  
DAVID A. WIDMAR ◽  
JAMES R. MINTERT
Keyword(s):  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
Choice Experiment ◽  
Fertilizer Application ◽  
Production Costs ◽  
Variable Rate ◽  
Farmer Perceptions ◽  
Best Worst Scaling ◽  
Adoption Decisions ◽  
Technology Benefits ◽  
Yield Monitoring

AbstractThe objective of this research was to evaluate producers’ perspectives of four key precision agriculture technologies (variable rate fertilizer application, precision soil sampling, guidance and autosteer, and yield monitoring) in terms of the benefits they provide to their farms (increased yield, reduced production costs, and increased convenience) using a best-worst scaling choice experiment. Results indicate that farmers’ perceptions of the benefits derived from various precision agriculture technologies are heterogeneous. To better understand farmers’ adoption decisions, or lack thereof, it is important to first understand their perceptions of the benefits precision agriculture technologies provide.

scholarly journals Nutrition of Florida Citrus Trees, 3rd Edition: Chapter 5. Precision Agriculture for Citrus Nutrient Management

EDIS ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Arnold W. Schumann ◽  
Edward A. Hanlon
Keyword(s):  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
Nutrient Management ◽  
Irrigation Scheduling ◽  
Soil Sampling ◽  
Production Practices ◽  
Florida Citrus ◽  
Ph Management ◽  
Protective Screen ◽  
Production Conditions ◽  
Citrus Trees

The information provided in the 2008 2nd edition is still sound for healthy citrus trees under Florida production conditions. Much of the information provided in this document on nutrients, application methods, leaf and soil sampling and irrigation scheduling are also effective for huanglongbing (HLB) affected citrus trees. However, research conducted since HLB was detected in Florida in 2005 has established changes in many production practices, including nutrient rates, irrigation scheduling, soil pH management, and use of Citrus Under Protective Screen (CUPS). Changes to the 2nd edition of SL253 will appear in boxes similar to this one at the beginnings of chapters 2, 6, 8, 9, and 11.

scholarly journals Variable-Rate Application on Fertilizer Use in Cotton Production

2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (10) ◽  
pp. 40
Author(s):  
Nathanael M. Thompson ◽  
James A. Larson ◽  
Margarita Velandia ◽  
Dayton M. Lambert ◽  
Burton C. English
Keyword(s):  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
The United States ◽  
Fertilizer Application ◽  
Variable Rate ◽  
Cotton Production ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Fertilizer Use ◽  
The Face ◽  
Input Prices

Precision agriculture technologies are increasingly important in cotton production because input prices continue to rise. Farmers increase input efficiency using precision agriculture technologies by adjusting inputs to match soil fertility and plant nutrition requirements. This research examines the factors affecting changes in fertilizer use following variable-rate fertilizer application in cotton production. Data from a 2009 survey of cotton producers in 12 states of the United States were used in the analysis. Farmers who used precision soil sampling, planted larger cotton area, relied on other farmers for information about PA, grew picker cotton, and had higher household income were more likely to decrease fertilizer application with VRT. Results from this analysis are useful to farmers and policy makers interested in reducing fertilizer use in the face of rising fertilizer prices and growing concerns about the environmental impacts of farming.

scholarly journals Variable Rate Technology for Florida Citrus

EDIS ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 2009 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Reza Ehsani ◽  
Arnold Schumann ◽  
Masoud Salyani
Keyword(s):  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
Economic Benefits ◽  
Variable Rate ◽  
Biological Engineering ◽  
Site Specific ◽  
Variable Rate Technology ◽  
Fact Sheet ◽  
Florida Citrus ◽  
Important Site ◽  
Specific Management

AE444, a 5-page illustrated fact sheet by Reza Ehsani, Arnold Schumann, and Masoud Salyani, describes this important site-specific management component of precision agriculture which provides economic benefits to growers while reducing the application of agrochemicals. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, January 2009.

scholarly journals Dampak Dosis Kompos Kotoran Sapi Terhadap Profil Suhu Tanah di Zona Perakaran dan Produktivitas Tanaman Pakcoy (Brassica rafa L)

2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 253
Author(s):  
I Made Andi Purnama Wijaya ◽  
Yohanes Setiyo ◽  
I Wayan Tika
Keyword(s):  
Physical Properties ◽  
Root Zone ◽  
Treatment Plant ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Fertilizer Application ◽  
Water Levels ◽  
Optimum Dose ◽  
Root Zone Temperature ◽  
Rooting Zone ◽  
Treatment Dose

Suhu tanah adalah salah satu sifat fisik tanah yang secara langsung mempengaruhi pertumbuhan tanaman pakcoy. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1) untuk menganalisis suhu di zona perakaran, (2) menganalisis hubungan antara dosis pemupukan mempergunakan kompos dengan suhu di zona perakaran dan (3) untuk menganalis suhu yang optimum untuk produktivitas dan kualitas pakcoy yang dihasilkan saat panen. Rancangan penelitian yang digunakan rancangan acak lengkap, dengan lima perlakuan dan tiga ulangan. Perlakuan tersebut adalah P0 : dosis kompos 0 kg/m2, P1 : dosis kompos 1 kg/m2, P2 : dosis kompos 2 kg/m2, P3 : dosis kompos 3 kg/m2, dan P4 : dosis kompos 4 kg/m2. Parameter yang diamati pada penelitian ini adalah suhu udara, suhulingkungan, kadar air tanah dan produktivitas. Padamalam hari suhu tanah di zona perakaran lebih tinggi 0,59 oC dari pada suhu lingkungan. Suhu tanah di zona perakaran terendah dan tertinggi adalah 18,02 oC dan 21,94 oC. Suhu tanah malam hari dan siang hari untuk dosis 0-5kg/m2 masih toleran pada tanaman pacoy. Berat kering tanaman pakcoy tertinggi pada perlakuan dosis kompos 4kg/m2 denganberat 92,21 gram/tanaman dan terendah pada perlakuan kontrol dengan berat 71,82 gram/tanaman.   The temperature of the soil is one of the physical properties of the soil, this soil physical properties direc2tly affect plant growth pakcoy.  The purpose of this research are (1) to analyze the temperature at root zone, temperature inside and out of the mini greenhouse, (2) analyze the relationship between temperature at root zone  with doses of compost fertilizer application and 3) to analyze the optimum dose of compost based on productivity and quality of the pakcoy is generated when the harvest. The design of the research used randomized complete design, with five treatments and three replicates. The treatment is P0: a dose of compost 0 kg/m, P1: a dose of compost 1 kg/m2, P2: a dose of compost 2 kg/m2, P3: the dose of compost 3 kg/m2, and P4: a dose of compost 4 kg/m2. The parameters observed in this research is the air temperature, the temperature of the environment, ground water levels and productivity.  At night the temperature of the soil rooting zone higher at 0.59 ºC than at the temperature of the environment. Soil temperature at root zone the lowest  and the highest  are 18.02 oC and 21.94 oC.  The temperature of the soil the night and during the day for dose 0-5 kg/m2 was still tolerant plants pakcoy. Dry weight of the plant the highest pakcoy on the treatment dose of compost 4 kg/m2  with a weight of 92.21 grams/lowest at the treatment plant and the control by the weight of 71.82 grams/plant.

scholarly journals A Path Model of the Intention to Adopt Variable Rate Irrigation in Northeast Italy

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 1879
Author(s):  
Maurizio Canavari ◽  
Marco Medici ◽  
Rungsaran Wongprawmas ◽  
Vilma Xhakollari ◽  
Silvia Russo
Keyword(s):  
Technology Acceptance ◽  
Precision Agriculture ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Perceived Usefulness ◽  
Path Model ◽  
Irrigated Agriculture ◽  
Variable Rate ◽  
Intention To Adopt ◽  
Factors Influencing ◽  
Variable Rate Irrigation

Irrigated agriculture determines large blue water withdrawals, and it is considered a key intervention area to reach sustainable development objectives. Precision agriculture technologies have the potential to mitigate water resource depletion that often characterises conventional agricultural approaches. This study investigates the factors influencing farmers’ intentions to adopt variable rate irrigation (VRI) technology. The Technology Acceptance Model 3 (TAM-3) was employed as a theoretical framework to design a survey to identify the factors influencing farmers’ decision-making process when adopting VRI. Data were gathered through quantitative face-to-face interviews with a sample of 138 fruit and grapevine producers from the Northeast of Italy (Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia). Data were analysed using partial least squares path modelling (PLS-PM). The results highlight that personal attitudes, such as perceived usefulness and subjective norm, positively influence the intention to adopt VRI. Additionally, the perceived ease of use positively affects intention, but it is moderated by subject experience.

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