Why do we measure NDVI in turf?

Before asking ourselves why we measure the NDVI on the lawn, it is necessary to know what NDVI is. From English Normalised Difference Vegetation Index, translated into Spanish as Vegetation Index of Normalised Difference, whose acronym is NDVI.

Its physical foundations are related to the exceptional characteristics of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a pigment that has the ability to absorb red light (660–680 nm) and reflect light. distant red (720–740 nm). It is important to note that NDVI can detect stress in a natural grass surface earlier than visual inspection.

The amount of chlorophyll in the plant determines the NDVI.

The NDVI relates the reflectance of red light and far-red light using the following equation:

NDVI = (Far Red – Red)/(Far Red + Red)

Measuring the difference between the wavelengths emitted by the plant when receiving light we can calculate the NDVI. As it is chlorophyll that causes the difference, and the greater the amount of chlorophyll in plant tissues, the healthier the plant is overall, we can use this parameter as a general control measure for the plant health.

NDVI can help detect stress in a natural grass surface earlier than visual inspection.

FIFA has recently determined in its latest handbook that NDVI should be measured using an instrument with very specific characteristics:

• Internal, constant light source (660nm and 840nm or 850nm)
• Eliminate the influence of ambient light
• Digital reading

The TCM 500 meter meets FIFA requirements for on-site readings.

There are satellites available to users in the market who are prepared to carry out this type of reading and determine the evolution of the planet's plant mass. Now some are so accurate that they can be used on football pitches and golf courses to ascertain the general health of the surface. For a small annual fee, we can have updated images of our field every week.

It is very important to monitor this variable using the available technology in order to stay ahead of problems caused by biotic or abiotic factors.

If you would like to know more about NDVI, TCM 500 or satellite field monitoring, please contact Tiloom at info@tiloom.com or via our website and we will help you with no obligation.