Video image analysis as a nondestructive measure of plant vigor for precision agriculture

Precision agriculture addresses spatial variability across a field in order to optimize application of fertilizer and other inputs on a site-specific basis. Soil testing provides predictive information on patterns in soil fertility and other soil conditions, but plant vigor provides a more direct and integrative indication of plant response to soil properties and management. Spatial patterns in plant vigor also provide greater resolution of soil effects than is practical using soil testing. This paper describes recent experience in applying video image analysis in monitoring plant growth (i.e., percent ground cover) as an index of vigor in,field situations. Using off-the-shelf technology, video images are recorded, digitized using an image capture computer board, then measured for percent ground cover using image analysis software. Results demonstrate that video image analysis is rapid and economical and can be used to detect patterns to guide subsequent soil sampling and mapping.