To maximize yields and improve the quality of potatoes, farmers must adopt best management practices that are tailored to their specific growing conditions. However, there is a need of more robust and efficient methods which could be made possible through precision agricultural technologies .Precision agriculture technologies are an innovative approach to farming that uses modern techniques and data-driven decision making to optimize production and reduce waste. Therefore the article will explain the different technologies techniques and their role in potato production.
Potato cultivation relies heavily on the proper preparation of soil to ensure optimal growth and yield. Remote sensing technology has made it possible to perform soil analysis more efficiently and accurately. In recent years, several novel remote sensing methods have been developed for soil analysis in potato farming .One such method is the use of hyperspectral imaging, which involves collecting data from the visible, near-infrared, and mid-infrared spectral regions. This method provides detailed information on soil moisture, organic matter content, and mineral composition, which can be used to inform soil preparation practices
Soil preparation using laser land leveling in potato cultivation has been a topic of interest in recent years due to the increasing demand for high-quality crops . Laser land leveling involves the use of laser technology to level the soil surface in order to ensure uniformity and improve the efficiency of irrigation and planting. Laser land leveling contributes to an increased crop yield and stand and decreased labor requirements for weeding.
The advent of technology has led to the development of geographic positioning system.GPS guided implement steering systems, which have revolutionized the process of soil preparation in potato cultivation. GPS-guided implement steering systems make use of GPS technology to guide the implement to follow a predetermined path, ensuring that the soil is prepared accurately and precisely.
Potato harvest using GPS-based yield mapping and optical sensing systems allow for the precise and accurate measurement of potato yield and quality. This technology provides real-time data on the size, shape, and color of the potato, allowing farmers to make informed decisions about harvesting and post-harvest handling. This technology is also useful for monitoring plant growth and health, as well as detecting and diagnosing any problems that may arise. Temperature and humidity sensors (e.g., hygrometer, thermometer, and temperature and humidity data logger) play a critical role in potato storage. These sensors allow farmers to monitor and control the storage conditions of their crops, ensuring that they remain at optimal levels for preservation.
GPS technology provides farmers with the ability to map their fields, determine the location of their crops, and track the spread of pests and diseases. By using GPS, farmers can create detailed maps of their fields and accurately determine the position of their crops. This information can be used to create detailed records of the distribution of pests and diseases in a field and to monitor changes in pest and disease populations over time.
Yield mapping involves collecting and analyzing data on crop yields from individual plots within a field. This data is then used to identify areas of the field with the highest and lowest yields, which can provide valuable information for making informed decisions about fertilization and other management practices.
Irrigation using soil moisture sensors provide real-time information on soil moisture content, and support irrigation management decisions . These sensors can be installed in the field, connected to a data logger, and used to monitor soil moisture content over time. Predictive irrigation systems use data from soil moisture sensors and other sources, such as weather forecasts and evapotranspiration models, to predict future soil moisture content and to support irrigation management decisions .
In conclusion, the use of best management practices with the latest developed precision agriculture technology has revolutionized the way potatoes are produced and stored. These technologies have improved the efficiency and profitability of potato production and reduced waste and ensuring the highest quality potatoes reach consumers. The continued development and implementation of these technologies is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of potato production.
