Flying Tech for Better Potato Crops

By Scout Nelson

Across the globe, potato farming is changing with the help of drone technology. From North America to Europe and Asia, drones are helping farmers increase productivity, save resources, and reduce crop losses.

In Idaho, where potatoes are grown on a massive scale, farmers have begun using drones with advanced sensors to monitor soil health. These drones detect issues like overwatering or dry patches, helping farmers adjust irrigation and improve yields. Some farms saw a 10% yield increase and reduced water use by 20%.

In the Netherlands, drones equipped with thermal cameras help detect early signs of disease like late blight. Farmers use the data to apply treatments only where needed, cutting chemical use by 30% and preventing large-scale crop loss.

Australia’s potato growers are using drones to improve fertilizer use. High-resolution imaging shows where plants lack nutrients, allowing for more targeted application. This has led to a 15% increase in marketable yield and reduced excess fertilizer.

The UK and Ireland face cloudy weather that often blocks satellite images. Drones step in here, mapping fields quickly and accurately. In some cases, farmers saved thousands of pounds by reducing unnecessary chemical use while maintaining strong harvests.

In North Dakota, drones help farmers respond quickly to weather-related challenges. After heavy rains, drones mapped flooded zones within hours, helping farmers decide where to replant and where to drain. This fast response helped save a large portion of their crop.

In India, small-scale farmers are embracing drones to save time and labor. New spraying drones can treat fields in minutes, using far less water and chemicals. Farmers have seen reduced disease levels and better crop quality. Government subsidies are helping make this technology accessible.

These real-world cases show that drones are not just high-tech tools—they are practical solutions for everyday farming problems. As technology improves and becomes more affordable, more farmers will likely turn to drones. With climate challenges rising, this shift is not just about improving potatoes—it’s about protecting livelihoods and feeding the world.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-npantos