Sander Middelburg of Leen Middelburg Chrysanthemums recognizes the critical role of knowledge in achieving optimal and sustainable chrysanthemum harvests. While green thumbs have been an invaluable resource, Middelburg acknowledges that reliable data can complement this expertise. In pursuit of better understanding chrysanthemums, Middelburg and several Zentoo growers have embarked on a journey to leverage advanced camera technology. The dynamic nature of chrysanthemum cultivation, characterized by daily planting and harvesting, demands adaptable and mobile camera solutions.
Data-Driven Chrysanthemum Cultivation
Collaborating with Delphy, the Zentoo growers’ association, breeder Deliflor, fertilizer supplier Van Iperen, and AgriData Innovations (ADI), Middelburg and his counterparts embarked on a mission to promote data-driven chrysanthemum cultivation. One of the pioneering projects in this initiative involves utilizing cameras to monitor the crop.
AgriData Innovations (ADI), a Delft-based company specializing in camera technology and computer vision software for crop monitoring, was chosen as a partner in this endeavor. According to Pim van Geest, Business Developer at ADI, while drones offer mobility and flexibility, they face challenges related to battery life and image stability. Given the need for high-quality and rapid data collection on a larger scale, a new approach was sought.
Cameras on Spraying Booms
A practical solution was found in equipping spraying booms, which traverse the chrysanthemum fields daily, with cameras. Initially, a single camera was installed to capture a single bed of chrysanthemums. The system has since expanded to include two cameras, each monitoring two beds. The plan is to further extend this setup to accommodate six cameras covering six beds.
These cameras are equipped with computer vision software to capture critical data such as stem length, leaves, and buds of the chrysanthemum crop. The information collected is seamlessly integrated into the QMS (Quality Management System), a comprehensive cultivation management system developed by Delphy for a range of crops, including chrysanthemums. The QMS Chrysanthemum module processes this data, alongside information on climate control, variety-specific details, weather conditions, and cultivation strategies, to generate growth models that optimize both production and quality.
Validating and Refining Data
Validation of the data collected from the cameras was a crucial first step to ensure its reliability and consistency. Growers manually measured stem length, while an automated scale verified stem weight to cross-check the data provided by the cameras.
Challenges and Lessons
Klaas van Egmond, Teelt Engineer at Delphy, emphasizes the need for reliable and consistent data within the QMS. The development process has been incremental, with careful consideration of the vast amounts of data involved. Van Egmond notes, “There is an enormous amount of data, so the development had to be done step by step. You can’t develop something like this all at once.”
Real-World Impact
Since the system’s implementation at three Zentoo growers, including Leen Middelburg Chrysanthemums, in late 2022, growers have experienced a heightened understanding of their chrysanthemum crops. The insights garnered from the new system have led to numerous cultivation decisions, proving to be a revelation for chrysanthemum growers.