Chlorophyll Meters Aid Plant Nutrient Management

About this technology

Overview

Spectrum Technologies, headquartered in Plainfield, Illinois, licensed a hand-held plant chlorophyll meter developed from Stennis Space Center's research on satellite sensors. The meter measures light to determine a plant's chlorophyll content-a strong indicator of plant health. Spectrum improved the NASA technology and commercialized it as its FieldScout meters. Growers and agricultural researchers can now use the meters to determine the nutrient needs of crops like wheat, rice, cotton, and corn. The meters are also effective nutrient management tools for turf grass, making them ideal for the maintenance of golf courses and athletic fields.