Variable Rate Technology is changing the face of farming and at the heart of this is VRT. With the ability to increase efficiency, sustainability and yields Variable Rate Technology is a game changer for farming.
This blog will look at the history of VRT, the benefits, how it works and how farmers are getting results. We’ll also look at the challenges and future trends. By the end of it you’ll see why VRT is being called the next big thing in farming.
What is VRT?
VRT is where farming meets technology. VRT means tools and systems that apply inputs – fertilizers, seeds, water, pesticides – at variable rates across your fields.
Instead of applying the same amount of inputs to the whole field, VRT uses data and algorithms to identify areas that need more or less of everything. It’s optimal resource application – economically and environmentally.
Why VRT?
Here’s why the hype around VRT is real:
- Farmland is varied and fields have soil and environmental differences. VRT manages those inconsistencies better.
- It gets rid of the one-size-fits-all approach and reduces waste.
History of Variable Rate Technology in Agriculture
VRT didn’t happen overnight – it’s the result of decades of agricultural technology.
- 1990s: GPS entered the field. Satellite mapping allowed farmers to start seeing variations in their fields.
- 2000s: Yield monitors came in, farmers could see productivity across zones in their fields. Automation started to show up.
- Now: We’re in the age of precision agriculture, VRT combines data from sensors, drones and field monitoring to deliver real-time answers. VRT has evolved to use AI and machine learning for real-time optimisation.
VRT Benefits for Farmers and the Environment
VRT is a double win – more profitable for farmers and kinder to the planet.
Farming Benefits
- Cost savings: Farmers only use what’s needed, so less expense on seeds, fertilisers and pesticides.
- Better yields: By treating different areas of the field as individual zones, VRT promotes better plant health and growth.
Environmental Benefits
- Reduced environmental impact: VRT reduces over application of chemicals, protects surrounding ecosystems and reduces pollution in waterways.
- Farming sustainably: Less waste and more resource optimisation helps farmers farm sustainably.
Mordor Intelligence reports the global VRT market will grow at 9.9% CAGR to $3.79B by 2026.
How VRT Works
VRT uses a combination of sensors, data analytics and precision application to get the job done. Here’s how it works:
1. Data Collection
Sensors, drones, field scanners and GPS enabled devices collect data on soil health, crop condition and field topography. This is the foundation for precision farming decisions.
2. Analysis and Mapping
Data is analysed to identify field variability. This can include soil nutrients, moisture and plant health, with specialist software creating prescription maps to guide application rates.
3. Application
VRT enabled machinery applies inputs (fertiliser or seed) at varying rates as it moves across the field. GPS ensures accuracy and machine learning refines the application for better results.
“Variable Rate Technology has changed the way we approach farming, we’ve never seen precision and efficiency like this in the industry” says Dr. Emily Green, Precision Agriculture Researcher.
Case Studies: VRT in Action
Here’s VRT in real farming:
1. Corn farming in the US Midwest
A farmer in Iowa used VRT to apply fertiliser across his 500 acre cornfield. The result? 20% less fertiliser used and 15% more yield.
2. Vineyard management in Australia
An Australian vineyard used VRT to manage water. By identifying areas that needed less irrigation they saved 30% on water costs and produced better grapes.
Overcoming the hurdles to adoption
While VRT is incredible, its adoption is not without challenges:
Upfront Costs
VRT systems and machinery are expensive upfront. For smaller farms this can be a barrier. But awareness is growing and government subsidies are helping to bridge the gap.
Technical Knowledge
Using VRT effectively requires a good understanding of the technology involved which can be daunting for some farmers. Organisations and companies providing VRT services are addressing this with training programs.
Data Issues
Data collection and management is key to VRT but raises privacy and ownership questions. How agricultural data is stored and used is top of mind for stakeholders.
VRT and Precision Agriculture Future Trends
The future of VRT is as exciting as its past. Here’s what’s coming:
AI Optimisation
Machine learning and AI will further refine VRT practices to make real time adjustments in the field.
IoT
The Internet of Things (IoT) will allow for seamless connectivity between all the tools, sensors and systems for farming operations.
New Applications
Beyond crops VRT is being used in forestry and livestock management, a new era of precision agriculture.
Farming for the Future
VRT is key to the future of sustainable farming. Farmers can get higher yields while reducing their environmental impact – and stay profitable and responsible.
To make the most of this technology farmers, technologists and policymakers need to work together to overcome the barriers and make it accessible to all.
If you want to try VRT or learn more, there are great resources and communities to join. Stay connected, stay informed, be part of the future of farming.
