Artificial Intelligence in Horticulture: Current Trends and Future Prospects
B. Santhosha *
Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, India.
B.S.K. Nikhil
Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, India.
V. Suresh
Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, India.
D.Anitha Kumari
Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, India.
R.Preetham Goud
Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, India.
B. Pawan Kumar
Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, India.
D. Venkatesh
Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the horticultural sector has become increasingly prominent, addressing key challenges such as poor soil management, pest and disease outbreaks, data overload, low crop yields, and the knowledge gap between farmers and advanced technologies. To overcome these obstacles, innovative solutions are needed, and AI offers a promising approach due to its flexibility, precision, cost-efficiency, and superior performance. By mimicking human problem-solving abilities, AI enhances decision-making in agricultural processes, making them more efficient while minimizing human intervention. One of the major advantages of AI in agriculture lies in its diverse applications, such as in irrigation, weeding, and pesticide spraying. These technologies, often integrated into robots and drones, enable precise control over water, pesticide, and herbicide usage, conserve soil fertility, and optimize labor utilization, ultimately boosting both the quantity and quality of agricultural output.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, horticulture, drone, grafting, robotics, crop production and protection