November 8, 2023
For rose growers striving to meet the daily challenge of aligning production with demand, the labor-intensive task of manually counting bud and flower stages has proven to be both time-consuming and subjective. The repercussions of a production-demand mismatch are not only costly but can also have a detrimental impact on operational expenses (OPEX).
In response to this pressing industry need, Corvus Drones is set to unveil its groundbreaking “rose yield prediction application.” This innovative solution employs autonomous drones that effortlessly navigate greenhouses, capturing images of the crops. These images are subsequently analyzed by AI-powered computer vision software, providing growers with real-time insights into their rose production. The resulting reports can be conveniently delivered via email or accessed through platforms like Letgrow.com or ERP integration links. The ease of implementation and operation is striking, with no greenhouse infrastructure requirements beyond a reliable Wi-Fi connection in the main aisle. Moreover, the drones can be controlled from a grower’s office, allowing for daily scheduled flights, and they can be operated from anywhere.
Frans-Peter Dechering, spokesperson for Corvus Drones, elucidated the capabilities of this technology, emphasizing, “The drone is capable of detecting five bud and flower stages with an accuracy that rivals manual counting. What sets it apart is its round-the-clock availability, devoid of human inconsistencies, such as ‘Monday morning illness.’ We are currently validating the rose yield prediction with leading Dutch producers like Berg Roses, Porta Nova, and Meewisse Roses, encompassing varieties like Red Naomi and Avalanche. Results are presented through an interactive reporting tool, enabling growers to access detailed information on bud and flower classification at specific locations within their greenhouses.”
In addition to its impact on yield prediction, the drone technology is undergoing tests for powdery mildew detection. Powdery mildew, a pernicious disease affecting roses globally, has been a significant cost burden for growers. The timeline for the release of this mildew detection application is anticipated to be in the summer of 2024. Notably, the rollout of the rose yield prediction technology is progressing ahead in African and Central American countries.
The development of this groundbreaking rose application is the result of collaborative efforts between agtech companies and dedicated rose growers. Corvus Drones manages the data collection through its aerial operations, while the AI-powered computer vision analysis is executed by Quantum Mobile, an entity based in Ukraine. Growers actively participate in the daily testing and validation of these cutting-edge solutions.
The rose yield prediction application is slated to make its debut at the International Floriculture Trade Fair (IFTF) exhibition, taking place from November 8 to 10 in the Netherlands. Visitors to the Corvus Drones booth (C2.31) will have the opportunity to witness the drone in action, marking a significant leap forward in the evolution of rose production technology.