Technology on the Farm: Soil & crop sensors
Did you know?
Some Ontario grain farms use sensors buried in the soil to get real-time information about plant health! And researchers are even developing ways to attach sensors to plants—it’s wearable AI for plants!
What are farm sensors?
Sensors are small devices that measure things like:
- Moisture – how wet or dry the soil is
- Temperature – how warm or cool the soil and air are
- Nutrients – the levels of important minerals that plants need to grow
Why are they useful?
- Informed decisions – farmers have a clearer understanding of their soil and plant health, to make the more precise decisions in their farm management
- Healthier plants and soil – ensure grain crops get the right amount of nutrients at the right time
- Less waste – reduces the overuse of inputs like fertilizers or pesticides
Do sensors replace farmers?
No. Sensors are “smart tools” that collect data; farmers use that information to make decisions about planting, caring for the plants and soil and harvesting.
Fun facts for students
- Some sensors are as small as a pencil and can stay in the ground all season.
- Farmers can check their fields using a phone app or computer dashboard.
- Drones and satellites can also carry sensors to scan whole fields at once!
Big picture
Sensors help farmers make smarter, more sustainable choices. By knowing exactly what their crops and soil need, farmers can grow more food while protecting local waterways, the soil, and the surrounding environment. Given the importance of grains to the world, sensors can make a difference to how many people can be fed.
Check out this video!
Minds-on questions (pick one to spark discussion):
- If sensors can “tell” farmers when soil is too dry or missing nutrients, what other jobs do you think sensors could help with in the future?
- How do you think farming was different before sensors and technology existed?
- Imagine you had a sensor in your schoolyard or garden — what would you want it to measure?
- Why might it be important for farmers to know exactly how much nutrients are in the soil before they begin planting?
Connections
- Sustainable farming starts with soil – Good in Every Grain
- Tech toolbox for sustainable farming – Good in Every Grain
