Can remote sensing be used to detect Sclerotinia stem rot in soybean?

Assessing the use of UAV imagery and spectral indices for detecting Sclerotinia stem rot in soybean to support improved disease monitoring.

Overview

This project investigates whether remote sensing technologies can be used to detect and monitor Sclerotinia stem rot in soybean under field conditions. The study explores the potential of drone-based imagery and spectral indices to identify disease-affected areas and support improved disease monitoring and management.

Remote sensing approaches may provide new opportunities to complement traditional field scouting by allowing larger areas to be monitored more efficiently and by identifying spatial patterns of disease development.

This work forms part of the MSc Agric research of Marais Cloete.

Status

Details to be added in April 2026 as the project progresses and field data become available.