Light energy utilization and measurement methods in crop production

• Published in: Crop and Environment Vol. 3; no. 2; pp. 91 - 100
• Main Authors: Lu, Zhaohong, Gao, Jing, Wang, Qi, Ning, Zili, Tan, Xianming, Lei, Yi, Zhang, Jie, Zou, Jiaqi, Wang, Lingxuan, Yang, Chenyao, Yang, Wenyu, Yang, Feng
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 01-06-2024
• Subjects: Crop production; Intercropping; Light use efficiency; Monoculture; Photosynthesis model; Remote sensing
• ISSN: 2773-126X; 2773-126X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.crope.2024.02.003

Efficient solar energy utilization is a crucial determinant of crop yield formation. Moreover, various planting methods have dissimilar impacts on crop solar energy utilization and its measurement methods. This study examined the differences in solar energy utilization between monoculture and intercropping by considering density configuration, plant type arrangement, timing schedule, and spatial layout. We further evaluated the traditional methodologies versus remote sensing technology for solar energy measurements and described the differences in calculation methods for monoculture and intercropping, drawing from the photosynthesis model. Additionally, we discussed the potential advantages and limitations of employing remote sensing technology for the monitoring and prediction of solar energy utilization in field crops.