Tips for optimal crop protection, by Erno Bouma (Part 1)

Why is it important to protect the crop during the growing season?

To best protect the crop, growers must determine the right time to treat their crop with crop protection products. However, the data obtained through the usual weather forecasts are not sufficient. The problem: this data is collected at a height of about 200 cm - which is not where the crop actually grows. This leads to a difference between the actual temperature of the leaves and the temperature measured by weather stations, which can be as much as 10 degrees Celsius. This dramatically changes the reasoning behind the spraying considerations.

Are there other factors growers should consider?

Although temperature is an important factor when it comes to successful crop protection, humidity and precipitation also play an important role in the success of crop treatment. Finally, the formulation of plant protection products must be taken into account, as it indicates how the agents are absorbed by the crop and what factors affect the rate of their uptake. Only when all these factors are taken into account can the best time for spraying the crop be found.

How can these factors be taken into account?

There are many factors that make successful cultivation during the growing season very difficult. Fortunately, keeping track of them is made easy with our top technology. SmartFarm offers with the FieldMate, not only the most reliable data, measuring every relevant aspect directly in the field. We also translate this data into easy-to-understand information so farmers can always find the perfect time to treat their crop with our Spray planner. Without the danger of getting lost in all the factors to consider.