Irrigation supplements the moisture deficit in the soil and allows the plant to grow optimally. Irrigation is done at Van den Borne potatoes using the Dacom irrigation management system . This system uses Dacom soil moisture sensors. These sensors measure the moisture status at different depths in the soil by conducting current.
The moisture sensor is placed in the ground right next to the plant, so that it becomes clear how much water is available for the plants in the soil in question. Based on this information, Van den Borne can then decide whether or not to irrigate.
7. Variable fertilization
During the growing season, fertilizer is spread at various times. The sensor on the front of the tractor measures the crop, looks at the yield potential map and calculates the correct dose. The fertilizer spreader on the back of the tractor then applies this. In this way, the plots are not homogeneously fertilized, but extra fertilized in places where the yield potential is high.
8. Yield measurement
By means of sensors on the potato harvester, the yield variation on various parts of the plot can be measured. By combining this information with previously collected data on the specific cultivation actions, a so-called 'yield map' can be created. This map is used for the evaluation and adjustment of the next cultivation cycle.
Smart cows
IoT solutions are also being applied in other subsectors of agriculture. For example, IoT sensors are being used to monitor the location and health of cows, pigs and poultry in a number of ways. For example, a sensor in a cow’s stomach can measure the acidity level and temperature inside the animal, allowing farmers, veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure optimal nutrition and medical care.
With horse fever monitoring, farmers know exactly when the animal is ready for insemination based on body temperature. A sensor-carrying belt, attached to the animal, can detect hong kong telegram data unusual behavior – which can be a sign of illness. In pigs, for example, in vivo tags ( RFID and temperature tags placed in the body ) collect data on parameters such as temperature, drinking water consumption, feed processing and hydration of the animal. Parameters that all influence animal health.
For poultry farming, intensive and overcrowded housing can affect animal health and welfare. Changes in eating behaviour and symptoms of illness can be detected remotely and the reaction to vaccinations can be monitored.
IoT agriculture
Dairy farms also aim to produce more quality milk in an efficient and sustainable way. What helps is that sustainable dairy farming and the production of larger quantities of quality milk per cow go hand in hand. For example, the correct and timely feeding cycle has a positive effect on cow health and milk production. This is according to the Dutch company Lely , which has developed an automatic milking robot that helps both small and large dairy farms (profitable from 50 cows, according to Lely) with these objectives.