Horticultural Industry Research Articles

Evaluating directional scale elasticity in the RAM model with undesirable outputs: an application in the horticultural industry

This paper advances the concept of scale elasticity by examining the impact of directional input changes on both desirable and undesirable outputs. We integrate two disposability concepts into a unified measure within the Range Adjusted Measure (RAM) model, enabling the computation of both directional scale elasticity and directional scale damage. This approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of scale effects in the presence of undesirable outputs. Grounded in Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), our research enhances the understanding of managing undesirable outputs while accounting for directional scale changes, offering significant implications for both performance improvement and environmental sustainability. The paper includes theoretical foundations, numerical examples to illustrate the methodologies, and an empirical application in the Iranian horticulture industry, demonstrating the effectiveness and adaptability of our approach.

Design and Implementation of Line Follower Robot for Automatic Watering of Orchid Plants

This study studies how the line follower robot is made and used for the automation of watering orchid plants. The purpose of using this robot is to reduce the involvement of human hands in the watering process and improve the efficiency of water use. This robot, which is made with an Arduino microcontroller, has an infrared sensor that can detect paths and has an automatic water pump for water distribution. The tests were carried out in a greenhouse where the orchids were well cared for. The results show that the robot can effectively water plants by saving up to 35% water compared to manual methods and increasing productivity by 20%. This invention can be applied on a larger scale in the horticultural industry.

Prioritizing weeds for biological control development in the western USA: Results from the adaptation of the biological control target selection system

Nonnative invasive plants (weeds) negatively impact native ecosystems, and their effects are likely to increase with continuing global trade. Biological weed control has been employed as a cost-effective and sustainable management option for weeds in the USA since 1902. Biological control programs require careful prioritization of target weeds to ensure the most appropriate targets are selected to obtain the greatest beneficial outcomes with available resources. The Biological Control Target Selection (BCTS) system was developed by researchers in South Africa as an objective, transparent approach to prioritizing new weed biological control targets. The BCTS system was recently modified and applied to 295 state-regulated weeds in the western USA for which no biological control agents have yet been released. This paper presents the results of that application, identifying the most suitable candidates for new biological control programs as well as problematic weeds for which the likelihood of successful biological control is low.Top-ranked species in the western USA are biennial or perennial weeds that occur in stable habitats, are established in more than one state, have traits deemed difficult to control with conventional methods, have large negative impacts and no conflicts of interest outside of the horticultural industry, and have substantial information available on potential biocontrol agents. Fifteen of the 20 top-ranked species are already targets of ongoing biological control programs in the USA. When species with current programs are excluded from the analysis, the next 20 top-ranked species largely differ by having less information available on potential biological control agents and having native or economically important congeners in the USA. Results from this framework provide valuable insights to the prioritization of current and future biocontrol research programs in the western USA.

Insecticide resistance in Australian populations of the serpentine leaf miner Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard) (Diptera: Agromyzidae)

AbstractSerpentine leaf miner, Liriomyza huidobrensis, invaded New South Wales and Queensland late 2020. Overseas, L. huidobrensis has a history of developing insecticide resistance and, since its Australian discovery, has caused significant control issues in Australian horticultural industries. Here, we developed bioassay methods to test the response of L. huidobrensis larvae to spirotetramat and L. huidobrensis adults to dimethoate, imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole. Against two New South Wales and one Queensland collected strains, we found a 33‐fold elevated response against dimethoate and 200‐fold more against imidacloprid than the field‐recommended field rates. Furthermore, we found that a maximum rate of 64‐fold the field‐recommended rate of chlorantraniliprole controlled only 94% of one tested population. Similarly, the maximum rate of spirotetramat tested (64‐fold the field‐recommended rate) only achieved 84%–94% mortality for the same populations. Prior to our study, the efficacy of chlorantraniliprole and spirotetramat against Liriomyza was poorly studied, with only a few reports with chlorantraniliprole against Liriomyza trifolii. Consequently, none of the tested insecticides in this study will likely control Australian invasive L. huidobrensis at the field‐recommended rates. Our results presented here highlight the need to identify and study alternative chemical and biological products and natural enemies for the control of L. huidobrensis in Australian horticulture.

The use of seaweed in the production of ornamental plants

Ornamental plants play a crucial role in urban green spaces by enhancing aesthetic value and providing ecological and economic benefits. They help improve air quality, support biodiversity, and contribute to environmental purification. The horticultural industry benefits from cultivating ornamental plants, it faces challenges such as soil health and environmental pollution due to high-yielding cultivars and chemical fertilizers. To address these challenges, integrating sustainable practices, such as using seaweed as an organic fertilizer, can provide solutions. Seaweed, rich in essential nutrients and growth hormones, improves soil fertility, plant growth, and resilience against environmental stresses. Studies have shown its effectiveness in enhancing growth parameters, mitigating salinity stress, and increasing yield and quality in various ornamental plants. However, the response to seaweed varies across species and conditions. To optimize its use, tailored application rates, combined sustainable practices, and continuous monitoring are recommended. Further research is also needed to develop comprehensive guidelines for its application in ornamental plant production.

Electroanalytical detection of fruit ethylene by a novel electroactive biosensing membrane

Purpose This study aims to present an innovative approach to detect and monitor ethylene gas during fruit ripening. Design/methodology/approach It uses a specialized composite membrane in conjunction with a solid-state electrochemical method. This unique electroactive membrane, composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), chitosan (CHT), lithium chloride (LiCl) and ammonium molybdate (AMO), exhibits synergistic behavior when applied to a microelectrode chip surface. This composite enhances the sensitivity of electrochemical ethylene detection. Empirical experiments were conducted to elucidate the ripening kinetics in various fruit specimens, including apples, pears and mangoes. These fruits released ethylene, which was analyzed using the molybdenum-permeated electroactive biopolymer composite membrane, a critical determinant of ethylene levels. Findings Characterization of the synthesized composite through techniques such as X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed reduced crystallinity and decreased hydrogen bond interactions upon activation with Mo ions. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images exhibited a distinctive porous surface morphology with spherical microgranules. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis indicated a significant change in the mass or atomic composition of Mo in the composite membrane after Mo ion activation. Electrochemical measurements, including cyclic voltammetry and potentiostatic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, validated the efficiency of the Mo-activated PVA-CHT-LiCl-AMO membrane, manifesting an impressive 87.79% increase in sensitivity compared to the nonactivated membrane. Practical implications This research work represents a significant advancement in the field of ethylene detection and fruit ripening monitoring. The Mo-activated PVA-CHT-LiCl-AMO membrane offers a reliable and effective solution for real-time ethylene detection, providing an invaluable tool for the horticultural industry to optimize fruit ripening processes, extend shelf life and ensure the delivery of high-quality produce to consumers. Social implications The findings of this study hold great promise for fostering sustainability and efficiency within the global fruit supply chain, ultimately benefiting both producers and consumers alike. Originality/value The implications of this research extend to the fabrication of a sensor based on a solid-state electroactive PVA-CHT-LiCl-AMO composite membrane, which upon Mo-activation exhibits robust electrochemical fruit ethylene detection when exposed to different fruits.

Investing in technology to address labour shortages in UK fresh produce and horticulture: How does this redefine standards of good agricultural practice

The global agri-food sector is becoming more fragile as a result of supply chain shocks like COVID-19, Brexit and conflict, which is posing a growing challenge to the horticultural industry. As a result, it is becoming clearer how crucial seasonal agricultural migrant workers are to ensuring food security. Delivering GAP requires taking into account the effects of COVID-19 and Brexit on the UK’s fresh produce and horticulture sectors as well as the potential for increased demand for automation and Agriculture 4.0. In the medium and long run, the market conditions may favourably accelerate automation and the adoption of Agriculture 4.0 as a workable solution to the workforce shortage. The greatest opportunities for automation and the application of new technology will be found in the transport, harvest, and post-harvest processes. Investment in automation and technology adoption depends on access to finance, appropriate training and upskilling, and other stakeholders’ support (e.g. by retailers). We conclude that understanding the need for automation, embracing Agriculture 4.0, utilising labour schemes, and envisioning how work and farming will change in the future is critical when examining GAP in the context of an integrated approach within the fresh produce and horticulture sectors.

Significance to the Horticulture Industry

Significance to the Horticulture Industry

Rapid Reduction of Phytotoxicity in Green Waste for Use as Peat Substitute: Optimization of Ammonium Incubation Process.

The rapid growth of the horticultural industry has increased demand for soilless cultivation substrates. Peat, valued for its physical and chemical properties, is widely used in soilless cultivation. However, peat is non-renewable, and over-extraction poses serious ecological risks. Therefore, sustainable alternatives are urgently needed. Ammonium incubation, a novel method to reduce phytotoxicity, offers the potential for green waste, a significant organic solid waste resource, to substitute peat. This study optimized the ammonium incubation process to reduce green waste phytotoxicity. It systematically examined different nitrogen salts (type and amount) and environmental conditions (temperature, aeration, duration) affecting detoxification efficiency. Results show a significant reduction in phytotoxicity with ammonium bicarbonate, carbonate, and sulfate, especially carbonate, at 1.5%. Optimal conditions were 30 °C for 5 days with regular aeration. Under these conditions, ammonium salt-treated green waste significantly reduced total phenolic content and stabilized germination index (GI) at a non-phytotoxic level (127%). Using treated green waste as a partial peat substitute in lettuce cultivation showed promising results. This low-cost, low-energy method effectively converts green waste into sustainable peat alternatives, promoting eco-friendly horticulture and environmental conservation.

An integrative approach to the delineation of locally endemic species: A case study of Vitis baihuashanensis (Vitaceae) and its implication for conservation management

Species definition and classification have long been the subject of controversy, and name changes can often be a source of frustration for both conservationists and the public. Vitis baihuashanensis is a critically endangered grapevine endemic to Beijing with only two remaining wild individuals. Although formerly treated as a synonym of V. amurensis, it was later listed in the List of National Key Protected Wild Plants (LNKPWP) in 2021. Here, we evaluated the taxonomic identity of V. baihuashanensis based on phylogenomic inference and population genetic analysis, and tested the species boundaries under various major species concepts (biological, morphological, ecological, phylogenetic, and integrative species concepts). Phylogenetic inference revealed that the amurensis-baihuashanensis clade was monophyletic, samples of V. baihuashanensis nested within the V. amurensis node. Population genetic analysis demonstrated that V. baihuashanensis samples clustered with V. amurensis. Our findings from field observations, morphological comparisons, pollination experiments, and genetic analyses indicate that V. baihuashanensis and V. amurensis are the same species under the integrative species concept, and support the synonymy of V. baihuashanensis under V. amurensis. Given that V. baihuashanensis was listed in the LNKPWP, we suggest that it be removed in the next update of the list because of limited financial resources. Nevertheless, the two wild individuals deserve conservation attention because of their distinct leaf characteristics and potential of cold tolerance, which could have important applications in the horticulture and grape industries. Our study provides multiple lines of evidence for clarifying the identity of a taxonomically questionable species, as well as valuable suggestion with conservation and management implications.

Enhancing Agriculture through AloT and Data Analytics Middleware

Middleware in Agriculture delves into the data analytics role of systematic Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) in convergence agriculture with smart farming. AIoT devices, remote diagnostic data analytics platforms, data analytics, formal recognition, and vision learning have generated both the amount and nature of work in rural areas. The reason for the developing changes in the global population by age is the bias in the distribution of food resources, as well as changes in climate change and the soil condition of compost. Data scientists are soon attempting to dive convergence Internet of Things (IoT) advances in savvy cultivating to support ranchers in producing better seeds, crop assurance, and manures utilizing AIoT convergence technology[1]. This distinguishes consumer-provider-administrator as a service subscriber roleon the platform, which goes for earning the nation's economy and the profitability of ranchers. The central regions where AIoT begins to emerge are agricultural robots, scrutiny, and soil and yield observation. While middleware technology for data analysis is applied, there is a great advantage of analyzing regional observation data at a real-time level. Based on this analysis method, it will spread to high-tech industries connected to production, processing, and consumption, which are subdivided areas of each precision agriculture. In this sense, ranchers are utilizing sensors for data analysis and soil information in a detailed way to gather a model that the executives dynamic platforms might use for further examination. Through an outline of real-time data analytics AIoT applications in the farming convergence industry, this paper tries a trust data basement forecast to the farming protocols[2]. It starts with a roadmap to the AIoT and an investigation of real-time data strategies utilized in the horticultural industry data analytics using Universal Middleware, service platforms, vision learning, and dynamic statistics. This study advances a dynamic platform examination of the literature on data resources and how AIoT is utilized in farming convergence. This study looked at the unstructured systems of modern agriculture, divided these processes into devices and services, and presented a systematic formalization model. It should contribute to the integration of segmented data connectivity in the AIoT field. The enhanced research model contributes to the discovery of numerous untapped additional services between devices and services.

Isotopic and trace element record of changing metal source contributions to tropical freshwater Lake Naivasha (Kenya)

Lake Naivasha, Kenya's second-largest freshwater body is a wetland of international ecological importance and currently subjected to unprecedented anthropogenic influence. The study aims to chronologically reconstruct the main human activities and background weathering reactions that govern metal mobilizations into the lake and their potentially adverse effects on its ecological status. We combine extensive geochemical analyses (major, trace elements, Zn-Pb isotope ratios) in a dated lake sediment record and catchment rocks with remote sensing techniques. Downcore geochemical variations reflect natural ecosystem destabilizations occurring as early as the first half of the 20th century. These coincide with changes towards less radiogenic Pb-isotope values which persist towards the top of the core (206Pb/207Pb = 1.243 at core base ∼1843, to 206Pb/207Pb = 1.225 at ∼1978). We interpret the land-clearance for agricultural purposes on the Aberdare Range and documented early aviation activities as possible vectors of this early Pb-isotope excursion. The overlapping Pb-isotope signatures between sediment sources and anthropogenic contributions challenges a straightforward deconvolution of the two. Our conservative model calculations suggest, nevertheless, that an addition of up to ∼1.8 % Pb-gasoline influx to the total Pb flux, peaking in the 1980s is able to explain the Pb distribution trend. Homogeneous Zn-isotope compositions in sediments deposited until ∼1970s (δ66/64Zn = 0.216–0.225 ‰) do not follow major hydro-climatic events or anthropogenic forcing but likely reflect lake-specific natural cycling. Subsequent higher variations to both heavier (up to δ66/64Zn = 0.242 ± 0.005 ‰) and lighter (down to δ66/64Zn = 0.184 ± 0.003 ‰) Zn-isotope values are contemporaneous with intensification of large-scale horticultural industry in the catchment. Together with supporting indicators, the lighter Zn-isotope compositions in youngest analysed sediments (21st century) are attributable to increased biological productivity (algal blooms) and ongoing lake eutrophication. Our study demonstrates the applicability of the heavy metal isotope tool to reconstruct human influences on lake environments with complex geological settings such as the East African Rift System.

Sea Buckthorn: A Review on the Hidden Treasure of the Temperates

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is one of the most common yet underutilized dioecious fruit crop of the temperate region. This plant is known as the gold mine of the cold deserts due to its exceptional winter hardiness and multiple uses. It is a potential functional food which is rich in nutritional and medicinal values and holds the potential to emerge as a future food cum medicinal crop. Traditionally, the crop is used as a folk medicine, fence, wind break, firewood and fodder. The fruits are rich in tannins, flavonoids, sterols, carotenoids, tocopherols and lipids. The cultivation of sea buckthorn is low demanding and it is seen growing wild in the valleys, riverbanks, slopes and mountains in the temperate regions. Though extensive research and developmental activities are progressing, commercial cultivation and popularization of sea buckthorn is still in the nascent stage. Some of the challenges faced by the sea buckthorn industry include lack of awareness regarding its potential, its short harvest season and high moisture content that prevents the farmers from cultivating crop and also hinders development of value-added products. An enhancement in the production aspects of this crop can be a boon to the horticulture industry. Proper interventions and policies from government, standardization of production technology, production of quality planting material of promising cultivars etc. are some of the ways towards popularizing the crop.

Развитие финансового и управленческого учета для повышения эффективности отрасли садоводства

Abstract. The purpose of the study is to develop approaches to the construction of accounting and information support for the production management system of planting material for horticulture. Methodology and methods. The methodological basis was a systematic and integrated approach to the study of the problems of accounting in horticultural organizations. Both general theoretical, universal, and specific research methods were used (monographic method; analysis and synthesis; statistical-economic, computational-constructive and accounting modeling method). Results. The article shows that in order to reduce import dependence, horticulture on an innovative basis has been intensively developing in recent years. The drastic changes taking place in the development of the horticulture industry necessitate a revision of the approach to managing this industry. At the same time, the construction of an adequate management system for the sustainable development of fruit and berry production is impossible without relevant accounting and information support for all management functions. The current state and development trends of the horticulture industry in Russia as a whole and in the Voronezh region are considered. The analysis of the dynamics of the laying of gardens and nurseries in the region is presented. It is proved that one of the key factors in the development of horticulture is the production of high-quality domestic planting material. The assessment of state support for the planting and cultivation of seedlings and young gardens was carried out. The conclusion is made about the inconsistency of the existing accounting and management accounting system for the cost of nursery products with the tasks of the management system. The scientific novelty lies in the adaptation of financial accounting methods to the requirements of federal accounting standards, among which accounting models are proposed for reflecting the facts of economic life on accounting accounts in the context of using various methods of evaluating seedlings; the development of methods and systems of managerial accounting of nursery costs in relation to options for the organization and technology of production of seedlings and modern conditions of functioning of agribusiness in horticulture; justification approaches to budgeting the cost of seedlings.

Phenolic Compounds Synthesized by Trichoderma longibrachiatum Native to Semi-Arid Areas Show Antifungal Activity against Phytopathogenic Fungi of Horticultural Interest

Fungal diseases are a major threat to the horticultural industry and cause substantial postharvest losses. While secondary metabolites from Trichoderma sp. have been explored for their antifungal properties, limited information exists on the phenolic compounds produced by less studied species like Trichoderma longibrachiatum. In this study, phenolic compounds were extracted from a liquid culture of T. longibrachiatum using various solvents and methods (conventional and ultrasonic-assisted). Phenolic compounds were quantified by spectrophotometry and identified by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The antifungal activity against Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum was determined by mycelial growth inhibition assays, maximum growth rate (µmax) by the Gompertz equation, and spore germination tests. Although no significant differences (p ≥ 0.05) were found between the extraction methods, the type of solvent significantly influenced the phenolic content (p ≤ 0.05). Extraction with 70% ethanol showed the highest content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. More than eight phenolic compounds were detected. Further, this is the first report of the phenolics ferulic, chlorogenic and p-coumaric acids identification in T. longibrachiatum, along with flavonoids such as epicatechin and quercetin, among others. The 70% ethanolic extracts notably inhibited the mycelial growth of A. alternata and F. oxysporum, reducing their maximum growth rate by 1.5 and 1.4 mm/h, respectively. Furthermore, p-coumaric and ferulic acids significantly inhibited spore germination of both pathogens, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1.5 mg/mL and a minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of 2 mg/mL. These findings demonstrate the potential of T. longibrachiatum and its phenolic compounds as viable alternatives for biological control in horticulture and postharvest disease management.

Prerequisites for cultivating frost-resistant peach varieties in the Right-Bank part of the Western Forest-Steppe of Ukraine

The necessity of cultivating frost-resistant peach varieties in the Forest-Steppe zone of Ukraine arises due to frequent sharp fluctuations in air temperature during the winter-spring period. Their cultivation can mitigate the impact of weather conditions, ensuring stable fruit production of this crop. The study aimed to analyse the prospects for growing peaches (Prunus persica Mill.) using intensive technologies under changing climate conditions. An analysis of the peach-growing situation revealed that it is a widely cultivated drupe in Ukraine and globally. The main countries leading in peach fruit production were identified: China, Italy, Turkey, Greece, and Spain. Despite a 24% increase in global peach production between 2013 and 2023, the demand for this crop has also risen, leading to a deficit and increased imports to Ukraine. Calculations of the scientifically justified annual consumption norms for peaches showed a shortfall of 187 thousand tonnes in production, with current production standing at 11.2 thousand tonnes. Several factors hindering the expansion of peach orchards were identified. The development of frost-resistant varieties by breeders, suitable for cultivation in the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine, alongside changing weather conditions, offers opportunities for the safe cultivation of peaches in the region. An analysis of the weather conditions in the Right-Bank part of the Western Forest-Steppe of Ukraine was conducted. It was found that between 2013 and 2023, there was a significant increase in the total active temperatures, with 2023 recording a maximum of 3,777°C. At the same time, precipitation decreased by 58%, amounting to only 325 mm. Considering the changing weather conditions and the development of new frost-resistant varieties, which have expanded the peach cultivation zone to northern regions of Ukraine, it is essential to prepare and implement specific measures to adapt the horticultural industry to peach cultivation in these new regions to meet domestic market demands. It is recommended to initiate trials in irrigated horticulture and develop new methodological guidelines to provide scientific support for establishing perennial peach orchards in the Right-Bank part of the Western Forest-Steppe of Ukraine

IN SILICO STUDIES OF IDENTIFIED COMPOUNDS FROM ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF CELOSIA TRIGYNA AGAINST NEMATODE (Meloidogyne incognita)

Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) have been found to be a major cause of considerable economic burden on the horticultural crops industry. Celosia genus have been renown to purpose antimicrobial activity. This study tends to swing the antimicrobial activity of one species of this genus i.e. Celosia trigyna against root-knot nematodes employing molecular docking methods. The identification of compounds in the leaf extract with the potential to inhibit Meloidogyne incognita was carried out in silico. Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) was employed for analysis of the ethanolic leaf extract of this plant, it revealed the presence of cis-9-tetradecanoic acid, vitexin-glucoside, 6”-O-deoxyhexoside, gallic acid, malic acid, sinapic acid, 3-feruloylquinic acid in the extract. Site-directed multiligand docking of the identified compounds was performed on protein 2MIF of Meloidogyne incognita and employing Bifenazate and Boscalid as positive controls. The binding affinity of 3-feruloylquinic (– 4.2 kcal/mol) was significantly higher than the positive control compounds i.e. Bifenazate and Boscalid (– 4.0 kcal/mol and – 3.9 kcal/mol). The interactions of this molecule with the amino acids of the protein showed that the mechanism of its inhibitory action is similar to that of the cocrystallized ligand. This result validates that the antimicrobial activity of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of C. trigyna could be employed against root-knot nematodes for sustainable agriculture.

Recent Advances in the Distribution, Chemical Composition, Health Benefits, and Application of the Fruit of Siraitia grosvenorii.

The fruits of Siraitia grosvenorii (S. grosvenorii) have attracted a lot of scientific interest as part of the current healthy diet. S. grosvenorii has diverse health-promoting effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, respiratory modulation, metabolic modulation, antitumor, and neuroprotective effects, as well as gastrointestinal function modulation. As a plant resource, S. grosvenorii has broad application prospects, which promotes the development of the horticultural industry. Moreover, Mogroside has attracted much attention as an important active ingredient of S. grosvenorii. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the distribution, chemical composition, health benefits, and application of S. grosvenorii, particularly Mogroside. This comprehensive exploration highlights the important therapeutic potential of S. grosvenorii, prompting further research into its applications. As value-added functional ingredients, S. grosvenorii and its constituents have significant potential for disease prevention and are widely used in the development of food and health supplements.

Downscaling crop production data to fine scale estimates with geostatistics and remote sensing: a case study in mapping cotton fibre quality

Abstract Purpose A generalised approach to downscale areal observations of crop production data is illustrated using cotton yield and fibre quality (length and micronaire) data which is measured as a module (areal/block) average. Methods Two features of the downscaling algorithm are; (i) to estimate spatial trends in yield and quality using regression with fine resolution predictors such as remote sensing imagery, and (ii) use area-to-point kriging (A2PK) to downscale either the observations in the absence of a useful spatial trend model or the residuals from the trend model (if useful) from areal averages. Results Correlations with remote sensing covariates were stronger for cotton fibre yield than for cotton fibre micronaire, and much stronger compared to those for cotton fibre length. Spatial trends in cotton fibre yield and micronaire could be estimated with good model quality using regression with remote sensing covariates with or without A2PK in almost all fields. Conversely, model quality was poorer for cotton fibre length and there was only a small difference in model performance between the null and trend models. When the downscaling approach was tested using fine-resolution yield observations, model performance was poorer at a fine-resolution compared to the module-resolution, which was to be expected. Conclusion This approach enables the creation of high-resolution raster maps of variables of interest with a much finer spatial resolution compared to the areal observations, and can be applied for any areal averaged crop production data in a range of broadacre and horticultural industries (e.g. sugarcane, apples, citrus). The finer spatial resolution may allow growers or agronomists to better understand the drivers of variability within fields, assess management implications, and create management plans at a higher resolution.

Development of financial and management accounting to improve the efficiency of the horticulture industry

Development of financial and management accounting to improve the efficiency of the horticulture industry