Multispectral photogrammetry: studying the effect of biostimulant treatments on cherry quality

23 Aug 2024
1682

One of the driving forces behind the establishment of Geospectra was the need to integrate technology and artificial intelligence into the agricultural industry, both in the area of production and in research and development (R&D).

This led the company to study and understand these tools, their potential and their limitations. We believe it was a wise decision, supported by the positive reception from various players in the agricultural sector. For this reason, we firmly believe in the crucial role of Agtech companies in the current and future context.

In the context of R&D, the incorporation of remote sensing (distance measurement with sensors) as an integral variable has been remarkable and decisive in the evaluation of product or management trials. The wealth of information available, combined with programming and geostatistics, allows for a precise assessment of the effectiveness of treatments and programs.

Image 1.

An example of this is a trial (DBCA with 5 replicates) conducted on cherry trees, where the biostimulant Biostiv (Point) based on amino acids (total and free) and organic acids (humic and fulvic) was tested. With a couple of applications through an irrigation system during the flowering period of the roots, at a dose of 5 L/ha, significant effects were obtained, assessed both in the field and with geomatic tools (soil information study).

In particular, statistical differences were found in the number of fine roots (less than 2 mm), with a resulting difference in the root index, as well as positive trends in leaf nutrition, particularly regarding calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and zinc (Zn).

The soil analyses showed positive trends with respect to the treatment for the same nutrients. Geostatistics contributed significantly, as the vegetative indices related to vigor, such as NDVI and OSAVI, showed a plausible improvement with Biostiv. Similarly, the green intensity index MCARI also showed improvement, indicating an increase in the leaf area index (LAI) and green intensity.

Image 3.

In addition, fcover - projection of the canopy in a perpendicular aerial view - was calculated, showing a 6.49% increase in the second flight, equivalent to 649 m²/ha of photosynthetically active canopy, thanks to the application of Biostiv. These results, supported by a large amount of data, show us the contribution that geomatic tools can make in evaluating the effect of products or management.

Today we have a large amount of information available and, thanks to geostatistics and artificial intelligence, we can precisely assess the effectiveness of treatments and programs. We hope that R&D companies and Agtech will continue to grow and that the sector will open up to these developments, which aim to sustainably improve productivity.

Source: Geospectra
Images: Geospectra

José Salinas Navarrete, Geospectra Agtech Chile
Ingeniero Agrónomo, Geospectra
www.geospectra.cl


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Secondary metabolites in buds: a clue to bud break

Tech management Production

09 Oct 2023

The results validate the biological activity in buds during the winter period. Although it is evident that ABA has a distinct temporal shift following the release of endo-dormancy, it emerges as the main metabolite responsible for the eco-dormancy phase.

South African cherries on the rise: new varieties and innovative systems

Production

30 May 2025

In South Africa, sweet cherries are expanding thanks to low-chill varieties and innovative growing systems. Dutoit leads development with high-efficiency orchards, varietal research, and farming techniques tailored to the country's diverse microclimates.

In evidenza

Prohexadione-Ca in Tip Top cherries: improved quality and reduced vigor in Piedmont orchards

Tech management

24 Nov 2025

A field trial in Piedmont (Italy) confirms that Prohexadione-Ca reduces vegetative growth in Tip Top cherry trees and significantly increases fruit set, commercial yield, red skin coloration, and antioxidant content, improving orchard efficiency with Gisela 6 rootstock.

The revival of Italian cherries: Vignola leads, Puglia seeks a comeback

Specialties

24 Nov 2025

In Vignola, cherries are a cultural emblem and IGP-certified excellence. While Puglia struggles with outdated methods, the Emilia region leads the way. This comparison reveals strengths and gaps in Italy’s cherry sector, aiming for growth and recognition abroad.

Tag Popolari