The planting process is a key moment for the farmer. The quality of the execution of this process, that is, mistakes or successes, interferes directly in the harvest results. For this reason, it has to be well-planned.
In order to make the most out of the soil resources and consequently, better development of the chosen crop, getting to know the soil is the first step. Since the soil offers the physical, chemical, and biological conditions for seed germination, great plants growth, and plant roots growing.
The soil of the same field may present different characteristics, and this is when the first techniques of Precision Agriculture are applied: soil analyses. Either by soil sampling with lab analysis or using advanced technologies such as the reading of electrical conductivity, which is carried out by Stara Veris, for further sampling. This stage is crucial, once it helps defining the working zones.
The working areas imply areas where there is low, medium or high productivity, and being aware of that is fundamental for planting planning. As the soil is not homogeneous, it is not recommended to use the same plant population across the entire field. According to Aquarius Project, for instance, it is suggested to proceed as follows in corn crop fields: to make the most out of the high yield zones, increase the plant population. For zones of low yield, reduce the plant population. For soybeans crops, on the other hand, it is recommended to use small plant population in high yield zones.
When planting with the variable rate based on working zones, following the planting window, and taking advantage of the best soil conditions, the farmer optimises investment in seeds and fertilisers and takes the first step for a more profitable harvest.
