Nitrogen sensing of crops has become a key element of precision farming technology in recent years and is used by many growers to accurately measure nitrogen application rate requirements for crops. The new Trimble GreenSeeker handheld crop sensor, available through Cambridgeshire-based precision-farming specialist AS Communications (UK) Ltd, provides an affordable, easy-to-use measurement device that can be used for basic normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) testing.
The GreenSeeker hand-held crop sensor comes with a high-quality optical sensor and simple pull-type trigger. When engaged and held above a crop canopy, the GreenSeeker handheld emits brief bursts of red and infrared light, measuring the amount of each type of light that is reflected back. The strength of the detected light is a direct indicator of the vigour of a crop, and is displayed in terms of an NDVI reading on an easy-to-read LCD display.
Readings taken by the GreenSeeker handheld can be used to make non-subjective decisions regarding the amount of nitrogen fertiliser to be applied to a crop. Built with a durable plastic housing, the GreenSeeker hand-held crop sensor comes with a long-lasting rechargeable battery and micro USB charging port that provides a direct connection for recharging without the need to remove and replace the battery.
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| When engaged and held above a crop canopy, the GreenSeeker handheld emits brief bursts of red and infrared light, measuring the amount of each type of light that is reflected back. |
Customers using the GreenSeeker sensor can also utilise the free-to-download Connected Farm scout app to their smartphone or tablet. The scout app can geo-reference locations of NDVI point readings and, using NDVI readings taken with the GreenSeeker handheld, can help calculate nitrogen application rate requirements for crops.
NDVI readings can also be downloaded into Farm Works mapping software and be used to create variable-rate prescription maps.
For more information visit: www.ascommunications.co.uk.
