Description
Autonomous robots are used to remove weeds in horticultural crops. These robots operate either by applying herbicides precisely to individual weeds (targeted spraying) or by using mechanical tools to eliminate weeds while leaving the crop undisturbed. An example is the Kilter X robot, which is employed in newly sown row crops and significantly reduces herbicide use through targeted application.
Explanation
Several robotic solutions are already available on the market and are gaining traction. In addition to their environmental advantages, such as reduced herbicide usage, these robots also reduce the need for manual labour—an increasingly scarce resource in some horticultural systems.
Advantages
• Effectively reduces weed pressure, despite being relatively slow. Can operate autonomously 24/7.
• Algorithms are continuously updated to adapt to new crop types.
• Significantly reduces labour demand, which is especially beneficial where manual labour is scarce or costly.
• User-friendly once set up, with minimal ongoing intervention required.
• Drastically reduces herbicide use—down to as little as 5% compared to conventional broadcast spraying.
Drawbacks
• Slow operation speed makes it important to carefully assess how many hectares can be managed per robot.
• No major drawbacks identified.
• Weather-sensitive—high wind speeds may affect performance.
• Environmental changes during operation can potentially disrupt precision and performance.
• No significant environmental drawbacks reported.
Technical Aspects
Technical readiness
High. Several autonomous weeding robots are commercially available, though adoption in Sweden is still limited at this stage.
Ease and efficiency of implementation
Generally easy to operate, but performance is not optimal in rainy or windy conditions, which can affect precision and safety.
Need for training and education
A comprehensive introduction by the manufacturer is essential. It is also recommended to explore complementary use with other techniques (e.g. inter-row hoeing) to increase overall weed control efficiency.
Need for investments
A minimum investment of €50,000 is typically required for the purchase of a robot.
Policy Recommendations
To support wider adoption, subsidies and co-funding schemes for equipment purchase should be provided. Demonstration activities are also highly recommended, especially now that a few robots are already operating in Sweden. These demos can help increase awareness, build confidence among farmers, and showcase the technology's potential in real field conditions.
Social Analysis Color
green
Environmental Analysis Color
green