Onion seed production is a sophisticated process that faces numerous challenges, including climate variability, pests, diseases, and the necessity for sustainable agricultural practices. A critical aspect of this process is accurately counting onion umbels, as this allows growers to estimate the potential yield of their crops and devise more effective crop management strategies.
An onion producer managing a 7-hectare field in Zaragoza, Aragon, sought an innovative solution to enhance the accuracy of yield evaluations. The producer was facing difficulties in accurately identifying umbels and distinguishing them from other objects in the field, such as rocks.
Luis Valdez, our representative in Spain, led the project, working closely with the producer to understand their specific challenges and needs. His expertise in agricultural technology and deep understanding of local farming practices were instrumental in tailoring the solution.
To address these challenges, images of the field were collected using a DJI Phantom 4 RTK drone, providing high-resolution data at 0.5 GSD. Proofminder then utilized this data to train an AI model capable of:
Figure 1 – Proofminder’s AI model for onion seed growers
Figure 2 – Onion umbels counting and classified by size (small, medium, and large)
During the development phase, it became apparent that the AI model needed to differentiate between onion umbels and white rocks in the field. To solve this, the model was fine-tuned to recognize rocks separately, achieving an impressive accuracy rate of over 95%. This additional feature not only enhanced the accuracy of umbel counts but also contributed to safer cultivation practices by helping the grower manage the presence of rocks in their field.
This AI model is versatile and can also be applied to other crops such as garlic, leek, watermelon, melon, pumpkin, carrot, parsley, fennel, coriander, and dill.
As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the integration of AI technologies is no longer a luxury but a necessity for competitive and sustainable farming. By adopting innovative solutions like AI-driven umbel counting models, onion seed producers can optimize their yields, reduce risks, and make data-driven decisions that enhance overall productivity.
If you’re a grower looking to elevate your farming practices with cutting-edge technology, don’t hesitate to explore how Proofminder’s AI models can be tailored to your specific needs.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve greater accuracy and efficiency in your agricultural operations.