Combining novel monitoring tools and precision application technologies for integrated high‐tech crop protection in the future (a discussion document)

Abstract

The possibility of combining novel monitoring techniques and precision spraying for crop protection in the future is discussed. A generic model for an innovative crop protection system has been used as a framework. This system will be able to monitor the entire cropping system and identify the presence of relevant pests, diseases and weeds online, and will be location specific. The system will offer prevention, monitoring, interpretation and action which will be performed in a continuous way. The monitoring is divided into several parts. Planting material, seeds and soil should be monitored for prevention purposes before the growing period to avoid, for example, the introduction of disease into the field and to ensure optimal growth conditions. Data from previous growing seasons, such as the location of weeds and previous diseases, should also be included. During the growing season, the crop will be monitored at a macroscale level until a location that needs special attention is identified. If relevant, this area will be monitored more intensively at a microscale level. A decision engine will analyse the data and offer advice on how to control the detected diseases, pests and weeds, using precision spray techniques or alternative measures. The goal is to provide tools that are able to produce high-quality products with the minimal use of conventional plant protection products. This review describes the technologies that can be used or that need further development in order to achieve this goal.

Targeted and Microdose Chemical Applications

“…The technology is still emerging and has a few challenges, including oc-cluded leaves, misshapen leaves, moving leaves, and dusty leaves (see Chapter 15). Nevertheless, the algorithms to account for the changing plant and environmental conditions are being developed by engineers and computer scientists and will result in more accurate recognition and precision application systems (Zijlstra et al 2011).…”

“…The trend for improving plant recognition technology and incorporating it with other management applications (e.g., yield, soil nutrients, moisture) is increasing at a pace that is sim-ilar to the development of other high-end technology systems. For example, Zijlstra et al (2011) describe technologically advanced devises, such as electronic noses that detect volatiles released by pathogens, acoustic detectors for identifying insects, and portable PCR units for real-time identification of fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases, as the future for monitoring pests in a comprehensive program for managing cropping systems.…”

Future Directions for Automated Weed Management in Precision Agriculture

“…If we expect to continue to maintain current yields and also increase production in the future, we will have to think more broadly in incorporating alternative approaches in our management strategies. A possible starting point is the model by Zijlstra et al (2011) for a crop protection system of the future that is based on novel monitoring tools and precision application technologies ( Figure 4). With a historical account of the field and following the planting of the crop, monitoring is conducted on macro-and microscales.…”

“…At any point, certain locations or "hotspots" could be targeted in the field with the appropriate and precise action made at individual plant scales. According to Zijlstra et al (2011), the twostep monitoring from macro-to microscale levels would enable earlier detection of pests (e.g., weeds) and thus require new action thresholds and dose-response relationships, which would require substantial research effort.…”

Quality and efficiency of apple orchard protection affected by sprayer type and application rate

“…Commercial use of the CHS is very rare but it is affordable and efficient. Zijlstra et al (2011) presented state-of-the art monitoring tools and precision application technologies for integrated high-tech crop protection. Koch & Weisser (2000) measured savings from 10-35% in a 3-7-year old apple orchard and from 35-45% in a 1-year old apple orchard using optical tree detection sensors.…”