Editorial: Innovative technology and techniques for effective weed control

Abstract

With the rapid increase in drone adoption, the global agricultural drone market is forecasted to grow to $11.9 billion USD by 2028 from an approximate worth of $1.4 billion USD in 2021 (Research and Markets, 2023). Butts et al. explored the combined effects of various hydraulic nozzle types and spray volumes on coverage and deposits from remotely piloted aerial application systems (spray drones). They observed increased spray recovery in the center of the spray swath compared to ground spray equipment, and identified specific nozzles to improve deposits while mitigating off-target movement potential. Paul et al. observed similar weed control in rice from a spray drone application compared to a knapsack manual sprayer despite significant reductions in spray volume, coverage, and droplet deposits. Their findings highlighted the potential of spray drones to reduce both labor and pesticide exposure in direct-seeded rice production.Proper weed identification is a critical first step towards effective weed management efforts. Venkataraju et al. explored multiple algorithms, including machine learning, deep learning, and object detection, to correctly identify troublesome weeds such as Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats.) and waterhemp [Amaranthus tuberculatus (Moq.) J. D. Sauer]. Their deep learning model was most successful, achieving 93% accuracy in identifying the two species.Innovative techniques also involve viable strategies for improving future weed management efforts. Somala et al. explored the capabilities of a fungal extract (Diaporthe spp.) to reduce growth characteristics of barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli P. Beauv.). Their laboratory research demonstrated greater than 80% reduction in barnyardgrass seed germination, root length, and shoot length. In other laboratory allelochemical research, Trespidi et al. identified that root exudates from Baccharis halimifolia L. reduced germination by 50-75% and reduced root length by more than 85% across all tested species. However, they noted the challenges of consistently translating laboratory allelochemical results to field applications, and thus further research is needed to refine the use of allelochemicals for effective weed management. Niklolić et al. investigated biological characteristics, including germination thresholds and seed properties, of common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) across different European climatic conditions. Their research demonstrated high adaptability of common ragweed to varying weather patterns, further exemplifying the need for site-specific weed management strategies.Finally, understanding practitioners' perceived needs, current practices, and thoughts about novel technologies is vital for establishing stakeholder-driven research and providing meaningful outreach. Ugljic et al. surveyed 128 stakeholders across the U.S. Midwest to assess these values. Results revealed more than 75% of respondents were unsure of adopting innovative targeted spray technologies. Survey results also showed that nearly 50% of respondents indicated they needed additional information on targeted spray equipment, underscoring the importance of further innovative technology research in conjunction with effective outreach efforts.This collection of research works serves as a critical example of the innovative weed management research being conducted globally, and the need for continued exploration. Longterm career forecasts have predicted that there will be a need for professionals who understand weed biology, ecology, and management principles, while simultaneously comprehending sensors, automation, and engineering technologies (Westwood et al., 2018). Additional funding resources and support are also required in this critical agricultural research crossroad. Collaborations with industry partners are a necessity, but there is also a pressing requirement for state, federal, and international funding resources to evaluate innovative weed management technologies and techniques. These novel tools will be released commercially regardless of the research background; therefore, funding not tied to a specific company will be crucial to validate marketing claims, supply non-biased data, and disseminate recommendations through engagement and Extension outreach for the successful implementation of these tools.

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