Table 3 Advantages and disadvantages of smart fertilization-related methods.
Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | References |
---|---|---|---|
Nutrient content (Electrochemical Sensor) | Rapid response Retrieves a direct measurement of the source component under analysis. | Requires complex laboratory analysis. | |
Nutrient content (Optical Sensor) | Non-destructive technique Provides a rapid evaluation in the visible and NIR bands. | The combination of different soil types can negatively influence the readings. | |
Nutrient content and soil pH (Soil Electrical Conductivity Measurement) | Rapid response Low-cost solutions are available Resilient sensor in terms of durability. | Reliability varies in different depths Influenced by soil moisture and temperature fluctuations. | |
Soil electrical conductivity | No special maintenance is requires With a proper installation, it can be accurate Wide operating and measurement range Typically combines multiple measurements into a single device At the same location, continuous measurements can be ensured. | Temperature variations in wet conditions require constant measurement The inclusion of a data logger may significantly inflate its cost. | |
Soil temperature | Easy to use Continuous measurements Sensor typically combines multiple measurements into a single device Low latency during operation. | The inclusion of a data logger may significantly inflate its cost. |