John Deere (Deere & Co.) is now offering See & Spray Ultimate, an AI (artificial intelligence) technology it says is redefining weed control. What’s so special? It combines computer vision, machine learning, and precision nozzle control to deliver herbicide only where it’s needed. And, because farmers everywhere are facing rising input costs, herbicide resistance, and tight application windows, this technology is more than a convenience—it’s a real-life game-changer. Launched as part of Deere’s precision ag portfolio, See & Spray Ultimate uses 36 high-resolution cameras mounted on a carbon fiber boom to scan fields at speeds up to 15 mph (~24 kph), identifying weeds and activating individual spray nozzles within milliseconds. The system processes over 2,500 square feet per second, applying herbicide only where weeds are detected. This targeted approach reduces non-residual herbicide use by up to two-thirds, saving farmers money while minimizing environmental impact. John Deere pointed out that the new See & Spray Ultimate technology uses computer vision and machine learning to—in season—target weeds in corn, soybean, and cotton fields so that farmers use only what they need and use more advanced tank mixes thanks to its dual-tank configuration. The sprayer’s dual-tank configuration adds another layer of efficiency. Farmers can apply two different mixes—such as a targeted non-residual spray and a residual broadcast—in a single pass, cutting labor and fuel costs while improving weed control strategies. Weed Management Weed management is one of the most expensive and time-sensitive tasks in row crop production. Herbicide costs have soared, and resistant weeds like waterhemp and Palmer amaranth are forcing growers to rethink their strategies. See & Spray addresses these challenges head-on by reducing chemical use and enabling more complex tank mixes without antagonism. Farmers have reported 60–70 percent savings on herbicide costs in field trials, along with fewer tendering stops and more acres per day. Beyond cost savings, targeted spraying reduces crop stress and drift, protecting plant health and improving yield potential. Deere-sponsored research across seven states showed an average yield increase of two bushels per acre, with some trials reaching nearly five bushels compared to traditional broadcast spraying. Founded in 1837 by blacksmith John Deere, the company revolutionized agriculture with the invention of the self-scouring steel plow. Today, Deere & Company is tackling weeds. 14 SEE & SPRAY OFFERS COMPUTER VISION AND MACHINE LEARNING TO IDENTIFY WEEDS John Deere’s AI-targeting spraying technology helps farmers cut costs, fight herbicide resistance, and boost yields—all in one pass. ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM PHOTOS: deere.com
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