PotatoSize

PotatoSize calculates information on the size of a crop by image analysis.

The PotatoSize app provides potato growers with information on the size distribution of their crop, by analysing photographs of crop samples in the field. It was developed by the James Hutton Institute and Agrovista, with funding from Genomia Fund.

Currently, growers need to manually measure and count potatoes in order to work out when the crop will be ready for harvest. PotatoSize eliminates much of the effort and cost of this, by allowing growers to take a photograph of a sample dig. This photograph is automatically analysed and the size of each potato measured. With a few additional details, the user can get information on the current weight per hectare of the crop within each 5 millimetre size range.

All that is required is a smartphone, a set of scales, a spade and a sheet of A4 or letter-size paper to allow the potatoes to be sized and information returned in tons per hectare for each size range. No riddling, no manual counting – and you will get the results in approximately 2 to 3 minutes after sending the photo. Results can be stored on the app or emailed to you as a spreadsheet file (coming in a later version).

The app contains useful instructions on how to carry out the dig, arrange the sample potatoes and take the photograph. It gives results in the form of a graph and a table, and is quick and easy to download and install. Server-side processing means that memory and battery requirements are minimised for use, however using the app will require an internet connection.

We have made the image analysis as smart and flexible as possible, to minimise effort for the user. If you follow the instructions on how to prepare and take the photograph, all the rest is done for you quickly and accurately.

Users can register to use the app through Agrovista’s website and do not need to be existing Agrovista customers – anyone can register and use the app, anywhere in the world.