Research project Sowing and fertilizing using drones

General introduction

Since 2024, a legal framework has been in place for drones used for sowing and spreading, and actual permits for operations have been issued. From then on, questions arose from the sector regarding comparisons with traditional sowing techniques, seed emergence, the use of complex cover crops, undersowing or sowing cover crops on erosion-prone plots, or sowing/fertilizing during wetter periods to prevent soil compaction. Knowledge building regarding the use of drones to inspect fields and provide smart images of agricultural areas is already at a considerable level. The StrooiVlucht project is building knowledge on useful applications for sowing or spreading drones.

Research approach

Within this operational group, we will work with interested farmers to explore the possibilities of sowing and spreading from a drone platform for various applications. Where possible, a comparison will be made with traditional seed drills. In general the spread pattern of various devices will be analyzed and the legal framework will be clarified for interested users. In this way, we hope to guide interested users in their exploration of the technology.

Relevance/Valorization

Expected short-term results include the quantification of emergence of green cover crops, determining the spread pattern of various drone devices and seed mixtures, a clear legal framework, practical guidance on the use of drones for sowing and spreading, and an analysis of the feasibility of sowing/spreading with a drone for various applications. In the longer term, these will contribute to increasing farmers' flexibility in the face of changing climatic conditions. For example, through undersowing, the soil will be covered for as long as possible with crops that ensure a healthier and therefore more robust soil against climate change and erosion. In wet years, the technique can enable farmers to sow or fertilize a small fraction of their land despite overly wet soil. By not driving a tractor onto the field in wet conditions when using the spreading drones, soil compaction is avoided, which is beneficial in both the short and long term.

These will contribute to increasing farmers' adaptability towards changing climate conditions. Undersowing will ensure that the soil remains covered with crops for as long as possible, creating a healthier and therefore more robust soil resistant to climate change and erosion. In wet years, the drones can allow farmers to sow or apply a small amount of fertilizer despite excessively wet soil. By avoiding tractor use in wet conditions when using spreading drones, soil compaction is avoided, which is positive in both the short and long term.

Financing

EIP