Digital optimization of nitrogen fertilization in precision agriculture
The aim of DigiMix-PA is to test, research and demonstrate an end-to-end digitalized process chain for precision agriculture on a mixed farm in Brandenburg. The focus is on coupled site-specific and demand-oriented organic and mineral nitrogen fertilization, which is to be optimized using digital technologies.
First of all, soil sensors record the nitrogen supply in the soil, while plant sensors measure the nitrogen supply to the plants. This high-resolution data is used to create site-specific N requirement and application maps. This is followed by a basic fertilization with liquid manure, in which the amount of nutrients applied is controlled in real time using NIR sensors. To cover the plants' remaining nitrogen requirements, a pneumatic spreader is also used for mineral fertilization.
A climate station directly at the edge of the field continuously supplies weather data, which is used to predict the optimum time for fertilization.
DigiMix-PA: Innovative digital technologies for precision crop production in Brandenburg
At the same time, a sensor network monitors soil moisture and soil-borne greenhouse gases are measured in order to evaluate the climate efficiency of the measures. In addition, precise yield mapping is used for economic evaluation.
These various data streams generated in DigiMix-PA are linked and made available using modern communication technologies (e.g. mobile communications (4G, 5G), WLAN, LoRaWAN). Finally, innovative transfer formats (e.g. virtual reality) will make it easier for farmers to get started with precision plant cultivation.
DigiMix-PA thus creates the basis for knowledge-based agriculture that uses resources efficiently and protects the environment. By combining digital technologies, scientific analysis and practical training formats, the aim is to anchor precision crop cultivation methods more firmly in practical agriculture in Brandenburg.