Research Article Open Access

Sensor Technologies for Precision Soil Nutrient Management and Monitoring

A. Bah1, S. K. Balasundram2 and M. H.A. Husni1
  • 1 Department of Land Management, University Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
  • 2 Department of Agriculture Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

Problem statement: Growing concerns about the need to increase crop productivity without causing environmental injury have led to the deployment of site-specific strategies in soil nutrient management, where nutrients are applied in variable rates to fit local requirements. Variable rate application of nutrients is typically based on a rigorous sampling regime and time-consuming data analyses. The ability to monitor soil nutrient concentration efficiently is highly desirable. Approach: On-site monitoring of soil nutrient concentration offers the opportunity for higher density measurements at relatively lower costs. This would allow for an efficient mapping of nutrient variability to facilitate variable-rate nutrient application. Results: Implementation of nutrient management programs using sensor technology potentially promotes environmental stewardship while maintaining crop productivity and profitability. Rapid and non-destructive quantification of spatially-variable soil nutrients has been made possible with on-the-go sensors such as optical, electromagnetic and electrochemical sensors. Conclusion: This review demonstrates the potential of on-the-go sensors for non-destructive and rapid characterization of soil nutrient variability within crop fields.

American Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences
Volume 7 No. 1, 2012, 43-49

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3844/ajabssp.2012.43.49

Submitted On: 6 December 2011 Published On: 25 January 2012

How to Cite: Bah, A., Balasundram, S. K. & Husni, M. H. (2012). Sensor Technologies for Precision Soil Nutrient Management and Monitoring. American Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 7(1), 43-49. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajabssp.2012.43.49

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Keywords

  • Precision agriculture
  • sensors
  • sustainability
  • soil nutrient management