Hyperspectral Imaging in Spot Spraying: A Game-Changer for UK Farming
Jack Harris - FieldCraft Technologies UK Ltd
As UK farmers face increasing pressure to reduce chemical use and improve sustainability, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is emerging as a breakthrough technology in precision agriculture. When combined with spot spraying and advanced green-on-green algorithms, HSI is transforming weed control by detecting and targeting weeds with unprecedented accuracy.
How Hyperspectral Imaging Enhances Spot Spraying
Traditional spot spraying relies on RGB cameras or multispectral sensors to differentiate weeds from crops. However, these methods often struggle in "green-on-green" scenarios, where weeds closely resemble crops in size and colour. Hyperspectral cameras, by contrast, capture hundreds of narrow spectral bands, detecting subtle differences in plant structure, moisture levels, and chemical composition.
What Are Hyperspectral and Multispectral Cameras?
Both hyperspectral and multispectral cameras capture images across different wavelengths of light, helping to reveal valuable data that is invisible to standard cameras. However, they differ in the number and specificity of the wavelengths they capture.
Multispectral Cameras: Capture a limited number of discrete spectral bands (usually between 3 and 10). These bands are typically broader and focus on key areas of the spectrum, such as red, green, blue, near-infrared (NIR), and shortwave infrared (SWIR).
Hyperspectral Cameras: Capture hundreds of narrow, contiguous spectral bands, covering a much wider range of wavelengths with greater detail. This provides a more comprehensive spectral signature of objects.
When integrated with AI-driven spot sprayers like Carbon Bees Smart Striker X, HSI enables:
Ultra-precise weed identification: Differentiating between crops and invasive weeds with high accuracy.
Real-time herbicide application: Spraying only where needed, reducing chemical waste.
Early weed detection: Identifying emerging weeds before they compete with crops.
The Role of Green-on-Green Algorithms
Green-on-green algorithms use advanced machine learning and spectral analysis to distinguish weeds from crops in real time. Traditional green-on-brown detection works well when weeds contrast sharply against bare soil, but UK farmers need a solution for densely planted crops.
By analyzing hyperspectral data, these algorithms can:
✅ Detect subtle spectral differences between crops and weeds.
✅ Classify weeds by species, helping farmers choose the right herbicide.
✅ Adjust herbicide dosage dynamically, minimizing chemical use.
Benefits of Hyperspectral Spot Spraying for UK Farming
Reduced Herbicide Use
HSI-driven spot spraying can cut chemical application by up to 90% in some fields, aligning with UK regulations on pesticide reduction and sustainable farming initiatives. This is dependant on weed pressure and can differe field to field but reduction in chemical use is achievable.
Cost Savings
Using less herbicide means lower input costs. Farmers will also save on fuel, labour, and water, improving overall efficiency accross the spraying elements of the business.
Improved Crop Yields
By precisely targeting weeds without harming crops, HSI technology promotes stronger, healthier plants, leading to better yields.
Environmental Sustainability
Minimizing herbicide use protects pollinators, beneficial insects, and soil health, reducing water contamination and supporting biodiversity.
Compliance with UK Agricultural Policies
With increasing regulations on chemical use and sustainable farming, adopting precision technologies like HSI helps farms meet DEFRA and Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) requirements.
The Future of Hyperspectral Spot Spraying in the UK
As hyperspectral cameras become smaller, more affordable, and AI-integrated, their adoption in UK farming is set to grow. Advances in the technology have allowed Carbon Bee to be at the cutting edge of Spot Sraying technology.
For UK farmers looking to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve sustainability, hyperspectral spot spraying is the future. The combination of HSI, AI, and green-on-green algorithms is setting new standards for precision agriculture, helping farms thrive in an increasingly regulated and eco-conscious industry.
Would you like guidance on implementing hyperspectral imaging for your farm?
Want to know the full list of avilable crops for Carbon Bee Smart Striker X? Full list here.
Email: info@fieldcraft-tech.co.uk