Tohoku Agricultural Research Center, NARO

In order to expand production and ensure a stable supply of onions used for processing, we will develop technology that takes a panoramic view of the entire food system.
Specifically, we will establish a production system using onion bulb set that is less affected by the quality of seedling growth and can be customized according to the proper planting time, which changes due to weather. In response to production technology with a high degree of freedom in scheduling, we use a production support system that utilizes growth models and weather data to present cultivation management schedules in response to changes and to support standard yields under various production conditions. In addition, by using crop growth and weather sensing data to predict actual harvest dates and yield forecast, we will support matching with actual users and contribute to improving the accuracy of pre-harvest sales contract. Through this system, multiple producers can work together to increase shipping volumes and extend shipping times, benefiting both producers and consumers. As an element technology of this technology system, we will develop labor-saving data acquisition technology using sensing technology such as image information, and develop algorithms for technology selection necessary for cultivation support, such as fertilization according to soil conditions and pest control according to the risk of disease and pest outbreak.