Technical resources for spectral crop scouting – current state and prospects

Abstract

From planting to harvest, the primary aim of agricultural producers is associated with monitoring cultivated plant species (arable crops or fruit plantations) in arable field areas during the vegetation period in order to make timely and appropriate decisions regarding the implementation of adequate agricultural measures to provide optimal plant development and to maximize the yield. Information about the current state and recent changes in crop sets over the vegetation period represents an important basis for reaching more precise decisions in the spheres of agronomy, economics, and environmental protection. By analyzing large amounts of interdisciplinary spatial data over longer periods of time, key information becomes available, facilitating monitoring crops in larger land areas, and providing the definite picture of changes in arable plots and ecosystems. Spectrometry is the most widespread method of scouting crops. Indirect analysis of the data obtained this way can help determine nutritional deficiencies of crops, as well as defective states caused by diseases, weeds, or pests. Consequently, it is possible to ensure the distribution and administration of optimal doses of appropriate fertilizers and pesticides subsequent to or concurrent with monitoring within the optimal agricultural frame and/or with changeable dosage norms. This review covers various technological processes for spectral crop scouting contingent on various technical resources and sensors. At the end of the paper, advantages and disadvantages of each resource are given, and the key comparisons are made in terms of the efficacy and precision of these resources.