T RA D E N E W S
Figure 4. The pH-map.
• Potential plant available water
storage capacity map, and
• Potential yield map for monoculture and fallow systems.
Examples of the abovementioned
maps are presented in Figure 1 to
3.
Step 2: Characterization of the
soil chemical status
Chemical analysis and adjustment
is done every year on one third of
the farm. Soil samples are taken
on the same GPS-point as in Step
1 and analysed. The results are
used to draw maps as required.
Examples of the types of maps are
pH, Acid saturation, Phosphate
(P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca),
Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na)
and Sulphur (S).
Examples of pH and P-maps
are presented in Figures 4 and 5.
Step 3: Using information for
correction
The information derived from
step 2 is used to create precision
application maps for the farmer
according to his requirements.
Prescription maps are generally
used for the application of lime,
fertiliser and seed. An example of a
lime application map is presented
in Figure 6.
Step 4. Field application
The maps referred to in step 3 are
•••
Figure 5. Phosphate map.
captured electronically and transferred to the on-board computer
before the action can be executed.
Examples are reflected in Figure
7 to 9.
IN-SEASON MONITORING
Step 5. Technology to monitor
crop growth during the season
During the growing season remote
sensing technology can be used
to support decision making on
nutrient application as well as pest
and weed control at specific crop
stages. Remote sensing can also
be used to determine hail, wind or
flood damage.
> CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
Figure 6. Example of lime application
map.
Figure 7. The lime application map (left) being loaded into the on-board computer of the tractor (right).
Figure 8. Precision application of lime.
SENWES Scenario • AUG/SEP 2016
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