The way the readings taken from Sencrop stations are measured comes from considering theory and scientific rigor as much as the experience of our users. New functions are constantly under development to improve their precision, coming as close as possible to the reality and problems faced by farmers.
Collection
The air temperature measurement system is designed to ensure the best possible reliability. Inside the slatted cover, the station has three sensors that each independently measure the temperature. The information transmitted to the user is the average of the values they measure.
This way, if one of the three sensors stops working, it is easy to identify the damage, and the information transmitted to the user then comes only from the other two. In general, if a sensor stops working (perhaps due to a water droplet, or overly high humidity), it starts working normally again after a few hours.
The three sensors are positioned within a slatted cover that was designed and engineered by Sencrop. Its purpose is to optimize exchanges with the outside world (maximize air circulation) without compromising the measurements taken. The slatted cover mainly provides protection from bad weather, insects, and spiders.
To get the collection of data as precise as possible make sure your station is clean.
Readings
The air temperature is a critical factor in farming, as it significantly influences plant growth, development, and overall agricultural productivity.
Here are some of the most common usages of air temperature in farming:
Crop Selection: Different crops have specific temperature requirements for germination, growth, and maturity. Farmers choose crop varieties that are suitable for the average temperature range in their region. This choice ensures optimal growth and yield.
Planting: Farmers consider temperature patterns when deciding the best time to plant crops. Some plants are cold-tolerant and can be planted early in the spring, while others require warmer temperatures and are planted later in the season.
Frost Protection: Frost can damage sensitive crops. Farmers use temperature forecasts to implement frost protection measures, such as covering plants, using sprinklers to create ice insulation, or employing heaters to raise the temperature in orchards or fields during cold nights.
Harvest: Temperature affects the ripening process of fruits and vegetables. Farmers monitor temperature conditions to determine the best time to harvest crops, ensuring they are picked at the peak of quality and flavor.
Pest and Disease Management: Temperature influences the prevalence of pests and diseases. Farmers track temperature data to anticipate outbreaks and apply appropriate pest control measures. Certain pests thrive in specific temperature ranges, so understanding these patterns helps farmers implement timely interventions.
Water Management: Temperature affects evaporation rates and plant water requirements. Hotter temperatures increase evaporation, leading to higher water demand. Farmers adjust their irrigation schedules based on temperature patterns to ensure crops receive adequate water without overwatering.
Sources
WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION (WMO), 2021. Guide to Instruments and Methods of Observation. ISBN 978-92-63-10008-5.