Precision farming
Agrotest Laboratory conducts agrochemical soil analysis for companies that use precision farming technologies in their fields.
Precision farming involves sampling with reference to GPS coordinates using special equipment. After sampling with fixation of data in the field by points, the samples are sent to the laboratory for analysis.
After conducting research, we visualize the results and compile field maps. And most importantly – we give recommendations for accurate application of the necessary nutrients, according to the coordinates of each sample. It should be emphasized that each analysis and indicator consists of a separate map.
SELECTION OF SAMPLES
A machine equipped with an automatic sampler with GPS-binding arrives at the researched fields. The machine goes around the field, drawing its contour in a special program (Ag Leader – SMS Mobile).
Then the program divides the analyzed field into plots of 1 ha, 5 ha or 10 ha (depending on the wishes of the customer). In each square, the sampler makes 30-40 injections, which are mixed into one average sample. Example:
Field X, area 100 ha. At the request of the client a grid for the analysis of 1 ha. From each plot of 1 ha, the sampler takes 30-40 injections (depending on the physical properties of the soil) and mixes them into one average sample.
Thus, if the area of the analyzed field is 100 ha, with a sampling grid of 1 ha, the number of samples for agrochemical analysis is 100 units.
In this case, the coordinates of each selection point are fixed in a special program for precision farming (Ag Leader – SMS Mobile). Each pick-up machine is equipped with a tracking controller to track its route.
All selected samples are analyzed in the analytical laboratory Agrotest, Kyiv.
AGROCHEMICAL
SOIL ANALYSIS
AND MAPPING
This analysis includes the definition of the following parameters:
- Soil acidity (water, salt, buffer), Soil electrical conductivity, organic matter, texture (sand%, silt%, clay%);
- Nitrate nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium and sodium, Cation exchange capacity (CEC);
- Exchangeable forms of calcium and magnesium, sulfur sulfate;
- Content of micro elements such as zinc, manganese, copper, iron;
- Field mapping;
- Calculation of fertilizer application rates for every 1 ha, 5 ha or 10 ha (depending on the selection grid) for the planned crop and yield;
- Drawing up a technical task for differential application of fertilizers in the format specified by the client;
- Further information support.
The client receives the results of the analysis in the form of maps with the content of nutrients in the field.
TECHNICAL TASK AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FERTILIZATION
Based on the results of the analysis, our laboratory provides recommendations for the application of fertilizers in the active substance for a particular crop and yield. For each fertilizer application map in the active substance, we develop a technical task map for the application of the mineral fertilizer chosen by the client. The client receives both a map of the technical task and a file of universal or specific format for the equipment.
Example of analysis results for the service "precision farming"