Initiatives

Uneven nitrogen distribution can significantly reduce crop yields. To quantify this impact, a commercial-scale trial is underway between the Global Digital Farm (GDF), Hutcheon and Pearce, and Incitec Pivot to examine the effects of uneven nitrogen distribution on crop yield.

The ‘Quantifying Yield Loss from Uneven Nitrogen Application’ trial is set to take place on the Global Digital Farm. The trial will involve a comparative analysis of yield variations resulting from using a spreader for granular nitrogen-based fertiliser and a sprayer for a liquid-based product. This will be conducted through a side-by-side strip trial spanning approximately 16 hectares of a wheat field. The objective is to measure the yield loss caused by inconsistent nitrogen distribution across the swath width of the sprayer and spreader boom.

The partnership with Hutcheon and Pearce will leverage the technology in the GDF John Deere equipment and John Deere precision agriculture software to contribute to developing the strip trial plan and the variable rate application in the field. The overarching goal of this cooperative project is to enhance crop yields by applying precision farming methods. In doing so, the trial aims to generate valuable data and offer product testing opportunities for both Hutcheon and Pearce and Incitec Pivot.

Upon reaching harvest time, the GDF will once again collaborate with Hutcheon and Pearce to conduct the wheat harvest across the trial area. Yield and protein data will be logged directly back to the JD Operations Centre, enabling a comparative analysis of the nitrogen application method. Furthermore, a smaller section of the trial will have the harvest conducted using CSU’s Zurn plot combine harvester, allowing for a more detailed assessment of yield variation across the 27-meter swath width of the nitrogen applications.