The impact of biostimulant application via RPAAS (Drones) and ground systems on the wheat crop yield: literature review

Abstract

Using biostimulants in wheat farming is currently required to boost crop yield, nutrient uptake, and stress resistance, making farming more sustainable. Fertilizers, pesticides, and biostimulants have long been applied by traditional ground-based spraying systems such as boom sprayers and tractor-mounted sprayers. These methods are effective for large projects, but they have limitations such as soil compaction, difficulty accessing damp or uneven terrain, and uneven spray coverage, particularly in dense canopies. These constraints can reduce the effectiveness of biostimulants and cause environmental issues such as chemical runoff and misuse. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) spraying drones, on the other hand, are a significant advancement in precision agriculture since they allow you to apply agricultural inputs precisely and just where they are required. Spraying drones are outfitted with cutting-edge navigation technology that enables them to spray biostimulants precisely where and when they are required, reducing waste and environmental damage. Because they can fly over uneven terrain without compacting the soil, and the airflow from the rotors improves spray penetration, they cover more ground and produce better results. According to research, drone-based applications can improve physiological parameters such as chlorophyll content and photosynthesis in wheat, resulting in up to 15% higher yield compared to traditional procedures. The DJI Agras T30 and other advanced models have larger tanks, wider spray coverage, and enhanced safety features, making it easy to treat larger areas. To achieve the best spray quality with the least amount of drift, select operational factors such as flight height, speed, and nozzle type. Even though drones have numerous advantages, there are still issues with their use, such as regulations that make them difficult to utilize, high initial costs, and the need for skilled operators. In general, drone spraying technology outperforms traditional ground systems for applying biostimulants to wheat because it is more precise, needs less effort, uses fewer chemicals, and is better for the environment. To maximize these benefits, more research and policy support are required to improve application techniques, make UAV spraying more user-friendly, and integrate it with existing approaches. Wheat farming and precision agriculture in general can become more sustainable and efficient in the future as drone technology advances and restrictions change.