Develop an automated system for precision application of nitrogen fertiliser and plant growth regulators

This proposal aims to develop an automated system for precise application of nitrogen (N) fertiliser and plant growth regulators (PGRs). Algorithms and software will be developed for integrating diverse forms of data from crop sensing instruments, yield maps, soil maps and soil N measurements. This will enable more accurate N fertiliser and PGR management through real-time decision making in the field, both on a field-by-field basis and on a metre-by-metre basis. Adopting this technology will improve crop productivity, increase farm profitability, maximise the efficiency with which N fertiliser and PGRs are used, and minimise pollution such as nitrate leaching and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The project is highly innovative in that it seeks to develop the first technology for variably applying PGRs and it will be the first technology to successfully integrate the complete range of information sources required to reliably predict the crop’s requirement for N fertiliser.