Efficiency of Low-Pressure Tires in the Cultivation of Winter Barley

Introduction. Today, a pressing problem is the lack of a comprehensive analysis of the impact of low-pressure tires on the growth and development of crops (dimension and mass characteristics of different plant parts, diseases, etc.), yield within the track and off the track using ground-based measurements, images from drones and from space. The aim of the work is to determine, using digital technology, remote and ground-based measurements, which element of yield structure and at which stage is most affected by tire pressure during the cultivation of winter barley. Materials and Methods. Above-ground monitoring of sprouts was carried out using standard methods of field testing. Remote monitoring of sprouts was carried out during the vegetation of winter barley by an unmanned aerial vehicle (Phantom 4 Pro, Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual) and by satellite images (OneSoil, SkyScout systems). Results. As a result of one year research the efficiency of low-pressure tires application in the cultivation of winter barley was proved. The results of comparing the efficiency of low-pressure tires with standard pressure tires show that when using low-pressure tires the biological yield increases by 4.4% and combine yield increases by 9.5%. Discussion and Conclusion. It was determined that tire pressure affects the growth and development of winter barley, the development of diseases, and crop yields. At the same time, the difference in indicators when the tire moves within the track and off the track is noticeable. Thus, the use of low pressure tires is an important issue of agricultural production intensification just like the use of modern technologies and technical means, highly productive varieties and hybrids, and plant protection means.