Artificial intelligence for growing grass

Used for covering lawns and sports fields, turf grass sod is a section of grass-covered soil held together by matted roots. A growing demand for turf has increased agricultural land used for sod production along with increased irrigation and other agricultural inputs required to keep the turf healthy.

In response to this, the EU-funded SODSAT (Remote precision management of turf grass sod production by means of artificial intelligence and satellite imaging) project is developing a monitoring system to remotely manage sod production.

SODSAT's technology uses a web-based satellite imaging analysis system to precisely manage turf sod production. By translating images into agronomical information, the system will provide intelligent and terrain-specific recommendations for farmers. In addition, on-field climatic sensors will contribute data on water levels, temperatures and wind speed.

Researchers have developed a working prototype based on specifications and case studies conducted by turf grass experts. Technical parameters informed by these studies will be used to grow healthier turf using reduced water and chemical inputs, while controlling and preventing disease.

Apart from providing a more profitable turf crop, SODSAT's system will aid the environment by reducing the use of water and agricultural chemicals. Once complete, this project will have a wide environmental and socioeconomic impact.