Exploring spatial patterns of planting winter wheat

An innovative mixed farm in Oxfordshire is working with applied researchers to explore whether precision planting of wheat seeds can increase yield, compared to conventional seed drilling in rows. Precision planting will result in more evenly spaced wheat plants, which should reduce competition between plants, improve light capture, and perhaps reduce disease pressure. If this is successful, there is potential for seed planting robots to be developed, which would increase yield and the efficiency of crop production, without negative environmental impacts.