Precision Nutrient Application Techniques to Improve Soil Fertility

and Crop Yield: A Review with Future Prospect

Irfan Raza1, Muhammad Zubair1, Muhammad Zaib2, Muhammad Hamza Khalil1, Ali Haidar1,
Asma Sikandar1, Muhammad Qamer Abbas3, Ahsan Javed3, Muhammad Moaz Liaqat1, Arisha
Tul Ain4, Muhammad Nafees1, Muhammad Ahmed Ashfaq1

1
Institute of soil and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture
Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan

2
Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha, Punjab,
Pakistan

3
Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab,
Pakistan

4
Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture
Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan

Corresponding Author:

Muhammad Zaib

Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan

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Abstract

Precision nutrient application techniques have gained significant attention in modern agriculture as a
means to enhance soil fertility management and optimize crop yield. This review provides a
comprehensive exploration of various precision nutrient application techniques and their potential to
address the challenges of food security and sustainability. The review highlights key technologies,
methodologies, and practices that contribute to precise nutrient management, including real-time
monitoring, variable rate application, GIS-GPS integration, drone-based data collection, and data
analysis tools. The importance of accurate data, challenges related to field variability, and the need for
skilled personnel is discussed. Furthermore, the review delves into the potential of advancements such
as machine learning and AI-driven solutions in overcoming challenges and advancing precision
nutrient application. These technologies offer predictive models, adaptive management strategies, and
real-time decision support systems. By emphasizing the benefits of precision nutrient application,
including improved nutrient uptake by plants, reduced nutrient runoff, and enhanced plant health, this
review underscores its potential to revolutionize modern agriculture. Ultimately, precision nutrient
application techniques hold promise in enhancing soil fertility, optimizing crop yield, and promoting
sustainable agricultural practices, making a significant contribution to global food security and
environmental sustainability.

Key words: GIS, GPS, precision agriculture, soil fertility, nutrient status, crop yield

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 1. Introduction

Precision agriculture (PA) is an advanced farming approach that utilizes modern technologies and
data-driven techniques to optimize various aspects of crop production. The goal of precision
agriculture is to enhance productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in agricultural practices by
tailoring interventions to specific areas of a field based on variability in soil, climate, and crop
conditions. This approach contrasts with traditional uniform application methods, where inputs
like water, fertilizers, and pesticides are evenly spread across a field, often leading to inefficiencies
and waste. Precision agriculture integrates tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS),
Global Positioning System (GPS), remote sensing, sensor technologies, data analytics, and machine
learning. These technologies allow farmers to create detailed maps of their fields' characteristics,
monitor crop health and growth, and apply inputs precisely where they are needed most [1].

Nutrient management is a critical aspect of modern agriculture due to its profound impact on crop
growth, soil fertility, and overall sustainable food production. Proper management of nutrients,
such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is essential to ensure optimal plant health, high crop
yields, and environmental stewardship. Nutrient imbalances or deficiencies can lead to reduced
crop productivity, increased susceptibility to diseases, and negative environmental consequences,
such as water pollution from nutrient runoff. Nutrients are crucial for plant processes such as
photosynthesis, growth, and reproduction. Proper management ensures the right proportion of
elements leading to healthy plants and high yields. Imbalances can cause nutrient deficiencies or
toxicities, leading to stunted growth, reduced yields, and lower quality. Efficient management can
prevent these issues and minimize nutrient losses and pollution. Effective nutrient management
maximizes fertilizer use, reduces production costs, and contributes to sustainable agriculture and
climate change mitigation [2].

The objective of this review is to comprehensively explore precision nutrient application

techniques used in modern agriculture and their impact on soil fertility and crop yield. The study
aims to provide insights into how these techniques contribute to optimized nutrient management,
leading to improved agricultural productivity and sustainability. Several studies have investigated
the effects of precision nutrient application on soil fertility and crop yield. For instance, Smith et al.
[3] found that Variable Rate Technology (VRT) led to more uniform nutrient distribution in fields,
resulting in enhanced nutrient uptake by crops and improved yield outcomes. Similarly, Jones and
Brown [4] examined the integration of sensor-based techniques and found that real-time
monitoring of soil conditions facilitated timely adjustments in nutrient application rates, resulting

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in better nutrient utilization efficiency and increased crop yields. Furthermore, Nguyen et al. [5]
showed that GIS and GPS integration in precision agriculture allowed for targeted nutrient
application, leading to improved soil fertility and reduced environmental impact.

2. Precision Nutrient Application Techniques

Precision nutrient application techniques are advanced strategies and technologies used in
agriculture to apply fertilizers and other essential nutrients precisely and efficiently to crops. These
techniques are designed to optimize nutrient delivery based on real-time data, field variability, and
specific crop needs. The goal is to enhance crop productivity, minimize nutrient wastage, and
promote sustainable farming practices. Some common precision nutrient application techniques
include:

2.1. Variable Rate Technology (VRT):

Variable Rate Technology (VRT) is a key component of precision agriculture that involves adjusting
the application rates of inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds based on the variability of
factors within a field. The goal of VRT is to optimize resource usage by tailoring the application of
these inputs to the specific needs of different areas within the field. This approach contrasts with
traditional uniform application methods, where inputs are applied evenly across the entire field,
often leading to inefficiencies and overuse in some areas and underuse in others. VRT relies on the
integration of various technologies, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global
Positioning System (GPS), sensor technologies, data analytics, and sometimes machine learning
algorithms. These technologies enable farmers to create detailed maps of their fields, which
highlight variations in soil characteristics, nutrient levels, moisture content, topography, and other
factors. By analyzing these maps and real-time data collected from sensors, VRT systems can make
informed decisions about adjusting input application rates on the fly. Variable Rate Technology
(VRT) offers many benefits in modern agriculture, including reduced nutrient waste and cost
savings, optimized crop growth, and environmental sustainability. By utilizing data on soil nutrient
levels, historical crop performance, and other factors, VRT systems can adjust application rates in
real-time, allowing farmers to apply fertilizers and other nutrients precisely where they are needed
most. This precision minimizes the over-application of nutrients in areas where they are already
abundant, reducing the risk of nutrient runoff and leaching into water bodies, protecting water
quality and preventing environmental degradation. Tailoring input application rates to specific field
conditions optimizes crop growth and yield potential. VRT also plays a crucial role in promoting

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sustainable agricultural practices, preserving soil health, minimizing pollution, and contributing to
long-term agricultural viability [6].

2.2. Sensor-based Techniques

Sensor-based techniques in agriculture involve the deployment of various types of sensors to

collect real-time data on factors such as soil conditions, weather parameters, crop health, and more.
These sensors provide valuable information that farmers can use to make informed decisions about
resource allocation, input management, and overall crop management strategies. Sensor-based
techniques are a cornerstone of precision agriculture, enabling farmers to monitor and respond to
dynamic conditions in their fields. Soil sensors measure moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels.
Farmers use this data to optimize irrigation schedules and nutrient application rates for better crop
growth. Weather sensors collect data on temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation to
understand environmental conditions that affect crops. Crop health sensors assess plant health by
analyzing spectral characteristics to detect early signs of stress, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
Nutrient sensors measure nutrient concentrations to optimize fertilizer application rates and avoid
nutrient imbalances. Remote sensing captures imagery of fields using satellites or drones to
provide insights into crop health, growth patterns, and stressors, which can be processed to create
maps for targeted interventions [7]. The use of sensors to monitor soil nutrient levels, moisture
content, and other relevant parameters is a key aspect of precision agriculture. These sensors
provide real-time data that enable farmers to make informed decisions about nutrient management
and irrigation strategies. Soil nutrient sensors are devices that measure the concentration of
essential nutrients in the soil, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These sensors use
various technologies, including ion-selective electrodes, optical spectroscopy, and electrical
conductivity, to analyze the nutrient content of the soil. For instance, a study by Sadeghpour et al.
[8] evaluated the use of ion-selective electrodes to measure soil nitrogen levels. The researchers
found that these sensors provided accurate and real-time measurements of soil nitrate
concentrations, allowing farmers to adjust nitrogen application rates accordingly.

2.3. GIS and GPS Integration

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and GPS (Global Positioning System) integration is a
fundamental aspect of precision agriculture that enables farmers to make data-driven decisions
based on accurate spatial information. GIS is a technology that allows for the creation, management,
analysis, and visualization of geospatial data. In precision agriculture, GIS is used to create detailed

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maps of field variability, soil properties, topography, and more. These maps provide valuable
insights for optimizing nutrient management strategies. A study by Gebbers and Adamchuk (2010)
discussed the use of GIS in precision agriculture, emphasizing its role in creating site-specific
management zones based on spatial variability. These management zones enable farmers to tailor
nutrient application rates and other practices to specific areas within a field, resulting in improved
resource utilization and crop yield [9]. GPS technology provides accurate and real-time positioning
information, allowing farmers to precisely navigate agricultural equipment within fields. This
integration with precision agriculture enables equipment to follow predetermined paths, ensuring
consistent nutrient application and minimizing overlaps or gaps. A study by Rezaei et al. [10]
explored the integration of GPS and GIS for precision nutrient application. The researchers
demonstrated that combining GPS-guided equipment with GIS-generated prescription maps
improved the accuracy of nutrient application and reduced input wastage. The combination of GIS
and GPS technologies is a powerful tool in precision agriculture. GIS provides the spatial framework
and data analysis capabilities, while GPS ensures accurate positioning for on-the-ground
operations. A study by Kachanoski et al. [11] discussed the integration of GPS and GIS for site-
specific nutrient management. The researchers highlighted how the precise positioning provided
by GPS enhanced the efficiency of nutrient application equipment, resulting in improved yield and
reduced environmental impact.

2.4. Drones and UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have gained significant attention in precision
agriculture due to their ability to collect high-resolution data over fields efficiently and cost-
effectively. They offer a unique vantage point for monitoring crops, detecting stress conditions, and
assessing nutrient deficiencies. Drones, also known as UAVs, are remote-controlled aircraft that can
be equipped with various sensors and cameras. In precision agriculture, drones provide an aerial
perspective that allows for the rapid collection of detailed data across large fields. This data can
include multispectral and thermal imagery, which provide insights into crop health, nutrient
distribution, and stress levels. A study by Torres-Sánchez et al. [12] investigated the use of drones
for monitoring crop health. The researchers demonstrated that multispectral imagery collected by
drones could effectively identify stress conditions in crops, enabling farmers to target nutrient
applications to specific areas.

Drones equipped with cameras can capture high-resolution images that are used to create
orthomosaic maps and 3D models of fields. These maps provide valuable information about crop

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growth, plant spacing, and potential nutrient deficiencies. A study by Hunt et al. [13] focused on
using UAVs for field mapping and assessment. The researchers highlighted the ability of drones to
rapidly generate accurate orthomosaic maps, which facilitated the identification of variability
within the field and guided site-specific nutrient applications.

The utilization of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in precision agriculture has brought
about transformative changes in how farmers manage their fields. The reference you provided
highlights the importance of drones equipped with multispectral sensors in targeted nutrient
management. This technology enables farmers to gather high-resolution data quickly, making
informed decisions for optimized crop health and production. The study by Sankaran et al. [14]
underscores the significance of low-altitude, high-resolution aerial imaging systems for crop
phenotyping. Multispectral cameras on drones can capture data across various spectral bands,
providing valuable insights into crop health, stress levels, and nutrient deficiencies. This enables
farmers to identify specific areas within a field that might require additional attention, such as
nutrient application. By detecting nitrogen stress in wheat crops through multispectral data
analysis, as mentioned in the study, farmers can take prompt action to address nutrient deficiencies
precisely where they occur. This targeted approach enhances resource efficiency, prevents overuse
of fertilizers, and minimizes environmental impact. Overall, drones equipped with multispectral
sensors offer a non-intrusive and efficient means of collecting detailed information about crops'
health and nutrient needs. This technology aligns perfectly with the principles of precision
agriculture, allowing farmers to make data-driven decisions that lead to increased yields, reduced
costs, and sustainable practices.

The utilization of drones in precision agriculture has completely revolutionized the industry by
providing a highly efficient and cost-effective method for collecting high-resolution images and data
from fields. These images and data can be utilized for a multitude of purposes, including crop
monitoring, stress detection, yield estimation, and more. Drones equipped with cameras are
capable of capturing detailed and comprehensive imagery that can be transformed into
orthomosaic maps, providing a complete view of the field's conditions [12]. Drone data provides
high-resolution imagery to assess plant health, growth, and nutrient content. This information is
used to calculate vegetation indices, such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index or
Chlorophyll Index, to make informed decisions about targeted nutrient applications. Multispectral
and hyperspectral imagery from drones can capture detailed information about plant reflectance
across different wavelengths of light. A study by Zarco-Tejada et al. [15] utilized multispectral

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imagery from drones to assess nitrogen deficiency stress in wheat crops, showing the potential of
drone data for nutrient deficiency assessment.

2.5. Real-time Monitoring and Data Analysis

Real-time monitoring and data analysis are essential in precision agriculture, enabling farmers to
make informed decisions on nutrient management, irrigation, and other farming practices. These
processes involve collecting, processing, and interpreting data from various sources to optimize
crop growth and resource efficiency. Continuous data collection from sensors, drones, and weather
stations enables up-to-the-minute information on field conditions. For instance, soil moisture
sensors provide real-time updates on soil water content, allowing farmers to adjust irrigation
schedules based on actual conditions.

Data analysis tools and software effectively integrate real-time data from sensors, drones, satellite
imagery, and weather stations for farmers to make informed, data-driven decisions with a
comprehensive view of field conditions. A study by Scharf et al. [16] highlights the critical role of
integrating yield monitor data, soil maps, and weather information in precision agriculture
decision-making, enhancing the ability to analyze and manage data from diverse sources. Data
analysis tools process real-time data rapidly, allowing farmers to monitor changing field conditions
and respond promptly. These tools enable decisions based on current information, improving
resource allocation and crop management. In the study by Gebbers and Adamchuk [17], real-time
data processing using GPS and sensors is discussed for creating management zones in precision
agriculture. This approach emphasizes the dynamic nature of data-driven decision-making.
Predictive analytics in agriculture involves using data analysis tools that utilize machine learning
algorithms to make forecasts about future crop outcomes, such as development, potential yield, and
the likelihood of disease outbreaks. These algorithms learn from historical data to recognize
patterns, relationships, and trends that can help make predictions with a high degree of accuracy.
The application of predictive analytics enhances decision-making in precision agriculture by
providing insights into potential outcomes based on past data. The research article "Machine
Learning for Predicting Tomato Yield Using Data from numerous Sources" by Andrade-Sanchez et
al. [18] exemplifies the power of machine learning in accurate yield forecasting. In this study, the
researchers demonstrate how machine learning techniques can predict tomato production by
analyzing data from various sources. This includes data from sensors, weather stations, and
potentially other relevant sources that contribute to the understanding of tomato growth. Data
analysis tools provide visualization features to present complex data in a user-friendly manner.

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Visualizations enable farmers to quickly interpret data trends and patterns, facilitating informed
decision-making. In a review by Luo et al. [19], the role of data visualization tools in precision
agriculture is discussed. Visualization aids in understanding complex relationships between
variables, contributing to effective decision support.

Real-time monitoring enables farmers to receive instant updates on soil moisture, temperature, and
crop growth. This information helps them adjust nutrient applications promptly based on the
current field conditions. Li et al. [20] highlight the importance of real-time data in nutrient
management. They discuss how monitoring soil nitrogen levels in real-time enabled precise
adjustment of nitrogen fertilization rates, leading to improved crop yield and reduced
environmental impact. Monitoring in real time helps to avoid either an excessive or insufficient
amount of nutrient delivery. For instance, if a sensor identifies excessive nutrient levels in a
particular location, farmers are able to alter the application rate in real time so as to prevent over-
fertilization of the soil. On the other hand, if farmers discover that their crops have nutritional
deficits, they may swiftly remedy the situation by using certain substances. Real-time monitoring
via the use of sensors, as Schirrmann et al. [21] point out in their study, may successfully avoid
nutritional imbalances and maximize the effectiveness of nutrient management strategies.

3. Impact on Soil Fertility and Crop Yield

In a study conducted by Zhang et al. [22], precision nutrient application was implemented in a corn
field. Variable rate nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers were applied based on soil test results and
yield potential. The results showed that precision nutrient application significantly increased corn
yield compared to traditional uniform application methods. A study by Sahu et al. [23] investigated
the impact of precision nutrient management on wheat yield and soil fertility. They applied site-
specific nutrient management techniques using GIS-based soil fertility maps. The research
demonstrated that precision nutrient application led to higher wheat yields and improved soil
fertility parameters compared to conventional methods. In a case study by Zhan et al. [24], variable
rate nitrogen application was implemented in a maize field. Through the use of remote sensing and
precision application equipment, nitrogen rates were adjusted based on plant needs. The study
demonstrated that variable rate nitrogen application resulted in improved maize yield and reduced
nitrogen losses. An investigation by Su et al. [25] focused on precision fertilization in rice
cultivation. By adjusting nutrient application rates based on soil properties and rice growth stages,
the study found that precision fertilization improved rice yield and grain quality, while also
enhancing soil fertility. To achieve optimal nutrient application, it is imperative to make

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adjustments to the quantity, timing, and placement of nutrients, taking into consideration the soil
type, crop growth stage, and availability. This approach significantly enhances nutrient absorption,
leading to healthy plant growth. Research conducted by Chen et al. [26] indicates that precision
nutrient management based on soil and plant data can substantially increase maize yield and
nutrient uptake. Using precision nutrient application can help minimize nutrient runoff and
leaching, which can have negative effects on the environment and lead to water pollution. Farmers
who apply nutrients specifically where they are needed can prevent over-application and reduce
the risk of excess nutrients entering water bodies. This reduction in nutrient runoff can significantly
contribute to the improvement of water quality and ecosystem health. A study conducted by
Magruder et al. in [27] showed that the use of precision nutrient management was effective in
reducing nutrient losses and improving water quality when compared to conventional methods.
Precision nutrient application improves plant health by avoiding nutrient imbalances that can
cause deficiencies or toxicities. Properly nourished plants are more resistant to pests, diseases, and
environmental stressors, resulting in enhanced vitality and yield. A study conducted by Rezaei et al.
[28] found that precision nutrient management led to better plant health and higher yield when
compared to conventional methods.

4. Challenges and Limitations

Adopting precision agricultural technology can be expensive due to high initial costs for equipment,
sensors, software, and data management systems. This financial challenge may discourage farmers,
despite the long-term advantages provided by precision agricultural technologies. Farmers may
face difficulties in adopting these technologies because of high investment costs [29]. Precision
agriculture combines various technologies, including sensors, GPS, GIS, and data processing tools.
Some farmers, especially those with limited tech experience, may find these systems challenging.
Schimmelpfennig [30] noted that the complexity of precision agriculture technology can hinder
adoption, particularly among older and less proficient farmers. For successful precision agriculture,
farmers need personnel skilled in managing technologies and data analysis, GIS, and remote sensing
to utilize its benefits. Education and training can bridge the skill gap among farmers in adopting and
benefiting from precision agriculture technologies [31].

5. Future Directions

Machine learning algorithms can analyze diverse data sources like soil quality, weather conditions,
and crop patterns to construct prediction models. These models help farmers predict crop nutrient

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needs and adjust fertilizer application rates proactively. In a recent study, Bakhshipour et al. [32]
used machine learning to forecast nitrogen fertilizer requirements for wheat farming,
demonstrating superior performance over conventional techniques and enhancing decision-making
in nutrient management. Precision agriculture benefits from AI-driven decision support systems
that leverage diverse data sources to fine-tune nutrient management strategies, ultimately leading
to increased crop yield and optimized resource utilization. These systems expertly navigate
intricate factor interplay and provide timely, tailored recommendations for optimal nutrient
application. AI-powered hyperspectral imaging is a powerful tool that can detect nutrient
deficiencies and stress conditions in crops with remarkable accuracy. According to Palacios-Rojas
et al. [33], this technology has the potential to revolutionize the assessment of nutrient status in
maize crops. Advancements in robotics and AI are enabling the development of autonomous
systems for precision nutrient application. These systems use AI algorithms to make real-time
decisions about nutrient application rates, reducing the need for human intervention. A review by
El-Ramady et al. [34] discusses the role of robotics and AI in autonomous precision agriculture. The
review highlights the potential for AI-driven autonomous systems to revolutionize nutrient
management practices. Machine learning and AI-driven systems can analyze complex data sets to
identify specific nutrient needs at different locations within a field. By precisely targeting nutrient
applications where they are most needed, these technologies minimize wastage and maximize
nutrient uptake by crops. This approach contributes to maintaining optimal soil fertility levels and
promoting healthier plant growth.

Conclusion

The intricacies of precision nutrient application techniques, and their direct influence on soil
fertility and crop yield, are analyzed in great detail in this review. Our thorough examination of the
latest technologies, including real-time monitoring, variable rate application, GIS-GPS integration,
drone-based data collection, and data analysis tools, demonstrates how they collectively enhance
nutrient management efficiency. Precision nutrient application is vital in modern agriculture for
addressing food security and sustainability challenges. This approach optimizes fertilizer and
nutrient usage, reducing wastage while improving crop productivity and quality. Precision nutrient
application promotes balanced nutrient availability, enhances soil fertility, and supports
sustainable agricultural practices. It also minimizes negative environmental impacts, such as
nutrient runoff and greenhouse gas emissions.

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