First Maize Measurement Campaign 2024

The first spectral and dry matter measurements in maize have been initiated at time points considered optimal for monitoring crop development in the context of silage harvest planning.

The study was conducted across plots with clearly differentiated agronomic conditions, including varying sowing dates, maize hybrids, and fertilization strategies. Already at the stage of initial observations, significant differences in plant growth dynamics were evident, resulting in noticeable variability in aboveground biomass and its structural composition.

This variability is expected to translate into a wide range of moisture levels and differences in dry matter accumulation, enabling a detailed analysis of the influence of environmental and management factors on the maize maturation process.

Dry matter measurements are performed using a gravimetric method following sample collection from designated reference areas, in accordance with a standardized research protocol. In combination with parallel spectral measurements, the collected data will allow for the determination of relationships between optical signals and actual dry matter content.

These insights will be further applied in the context of rapid and practical assessment of crop maturity and accurate prediction of optimal harvest timing.