Variable and modified plant establishment with respect to agro-environmental measures

Nurul Dinda Latifah

Master's thesis

Abstract:

Global food security relies on food production, yet persistent difficulties such as soil desertification, chemical pollution, and biodiversity loss persist. The problems may increase with the predicted world population surpassing nine billion by 2050. This study aims to evaluate the effects of different tillage and sowing procedures, both variable and modified, on the yields of corn, barley, and sugar beet. The research was carried out in collaboration with Statek Chyše s.r.o. and Zemědělská akciová společnost Mžany a.s. They are employing prescription maps to maximize resource utilization and improve profitability per unit of land. The study's results demonstrate a multifaceted correlation between soil conductivity, seeding density, and grain production, wherein elevated conductivity levels tend to be linked to enhanced productivity. The utilization of NDVI as a measure of vegetation vitality is crucial, as there is a positive correlation between higher seeding ratios and healthier vegetation. The efficacy of greening spraying rows in enhancing agricultural functions is underscored by operational testing conducted in 2023. However, it is essential to acknowledge that there may be trade-offs in primary crop yield, which the advantages of biomass production and ecological variety can counterbalance. Implementing modified tillage practices in sugar beet farming has enhanced water infiltration and soil health, improving precipitation usage and accessibility to water resources. In summary, the implementation of variable seeding and modified tillage techniques shows the potential to enhance agricultural productivity and promote sustainability.

Keywords

Biodiversity, NDVI Index, Soil tillage, Variable seeding, yield potential

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 4. 4. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 20. 5. 2024
• Supervisor: doc. Ing. Milan Kroulík, Ph.D.
• Reader: Josef Chára, Ing.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Engineering

Master programme:
Technology and Environmental Engineering