GreenSeeker for Efficient Utilization of Nitrogen in Maize: A Review

Abstract

The GreenSeeker has emerged as a diagnostic tool to estimate nitrogen status of actively growing crop canopy, which measures the fraction of emitted light received by the sensor. Nitrogen plays a vital role in deciding growth and yield of maize crop. For economic profitability and environmental safety, it is required to go for precise management of nitrogenous fertilizer in maize. Several authors have worked on the efficacy of GreenSeeker for real time nitrogen management in maize. An attempt has been made to compile various research findings relating to effect of use of GreenSeeker on yield attributes, yield and economics of maize. Significant increase in maize yield was recorded by many of the researchers through dynamic nitrogen management practices involving split application of nitrogenous fertilizer based on NDVI value of GreenSeeker. Use of GreenSeeker resulted in higher values of gross return, net return and benefit-cost ration due to less use of nitrogen and enhanced rate of absorption by the plant. Hence, use of GreenSeeker can be a preferred option to enhance nitrogen use efficiency and minimize negative impact of chemical nitrogen on soil and water.