Drone helps to desiccate the canola
September 2021
Agras T20
Ontario, Canada
This year’s climate has been anything but normal. Some regions experienced excessive heat and drought, while others faced heavy rainfall.
The Challenges
Canola growers reached out to us with concerns. This year, their fields showed uneven growth and maturity of canola crops, and weeds were scattered irregularly throughout. Using large-scale spreaders would risk reducing crop yield, which they wanted to avoid. Instead, they sought to desiccate the fields, specifically targeting weed-infested areas through aerial application.
The symptoms observed are a result of heat and drought stress throughout the growing season. Desiccants are applied to improve crop uniformity, allowing crops to dry more quickly and evenly. This process accelerates crop maturity, enabling a timely and uniform harvest while maintaining optimal quality. Additionally, desiccation helps to dry out weeds and plants, thereby increasing harvest efficiency.
Drone Solution
Across many countries, growers are using DJI AG drones to spray desiccants on sunflowers. This approach not only protects the crops but also boosts yields, gaining popularity among farmers worldwide.
Incorporating global case studies of drone-based desiccant application, our agronomist has carefully fine-tuned the spray ratios for optimal results. Together with growers, we conducted small-scale trials using targeted drone spraying.
To enhance the coverage of herbicides, which are activated by sunlight the following morning, we utilize the drone’s AI-powered, fully autonomous RTK operation at night. Night spraying slightly disperses the herbicide from the droplet contact point, allowing for more complete absorption by plant tissues.
The results have been impressive.
Grower’s review:
The herbicide appears to be working very well. The crop appears to be uniformly dying with good penetration into the bottom. Looks good!
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