By Blake Jackson
Researchers at the University of Missouri are demonstrating how artificial intelligence can help farmers make more precise planting decisions, improving productivity while reducing unnecessary input costs.
Rather than relying on a uniform planting strategy across an entire field, the research encourages growers to tailor seeding rates based on specific field conditions.
“Fields might look the same from the road, but they’re not,” Jasmine Neupane, assistant professor of agricultural systems technology at Mizzou’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources and co-corresponding author, said.
“Some areas have better soil and moisture, while others are more prone to erosion or nutrient loss.”
To evaluate this approach, researchers analyzed data from two Ohio farms using an AI model. By combining soil information, elevation data, and historical yield records, the team developed recommendations for variable-rate seeding (VRS), allowing planting equipment to automatically adjust seed populations according to each area's production potential.
“AI helps farmers choose the right planting rate for different parts of the field,” Neupane said. “It also helps them adjust how much fertilizer and crop protection they use, leading to lower costs and better overall results.”
The technology also promotes more efficient use of fertilizers and crop protection products, reducing waste and limiting environmental impacts.
“It keeps farmers from applying nutrients or chemicals unnecessarily,” Neupane said. “That helps prevent runoff and other environmental impacts, protecting nearby soil and water.”
The study found that corn responded well to AI-guided variable-rate seeding, producing reliable recommendations for precision agriculture.
Soybeans, however, were less predictable because their growth is heavily influenced by changing weather conditions, making additional research necessary.
This summer, Neupane will continue testing the technology at Mizzou’s Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center. Inspired by her experiences growing up in Nepal, she hopes digital agriculture tools will help farmers worldwide make smarter management decisions.
“When you really understand what your field is telling you, you can manage it much more strategically,” Neupane said.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki
Categories: Missouri, Education