A review of innovative fertilization strategies in precision agriculture
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Abstract
The increasing global population, expected to reach over 10.3 billion in the mid-2080s, is putting huge pressure on the demand for food, making innovative techniques essential. Conventional methods have relied much on heavy chemical fertilizers, which have devastating environmental consequences, such as pollution and inefficiency of nutrient use. Precision farming deploys specific fertilization methods in response to these challenges, made possible by the latest technologies: remote sensing technology, global positioning system, wireless sensor network, internet of things, blockchain system, and data analytics. These technologies provide data from current situations at both spatial and temporal scales; hence, the application of fertilizers is well-applied to the needs of the crops in tune with the prevailing conditions of the soil. This method lowers fertilizer waste, mitigates environmental contamination, and enhances crop yields by providing nutrients precisely when and where required. Different types of fertilizers, such as nano-fertilizers, fertilizers with external coatings, and lower-solubilize fertilizers, improve nutrient absorption by crops due to retention in root zones for a longer period. Advanced fertilization methods, including variable rate technology and fertigation, improve fertilizer use efficiency by optimizing nutrient distribution. Variable Rate Technology modifies fertilizer application according to soil nutrient composition and crop development phases, while fertigation incorporates fertilizer distribution via irrigation systems, guaranteeing accurate nutrient provision. Advancements in precision agriculture promote sustainable agricultural practices, increase production, lower costs, and diminish the environmental implications of conventional fertilization methods, hence helping long-term food security and environmental preservation.