Evaluation of LAI Dynamics by Using Plant Canopy Analyzer and Its Relationship to Yield Variation of Soybean in Farmer Field

Soybean yield largely varies spatially and yearly in farmer fields. Appropriate growth diagnosis is recommended to stabilize the yield. Leaf area index (LAI) is a representative diagnostic item, but an evaluation method of LAI dynamics with growth has not been established. In this study, we utilized a growth function consisting of an exponential function and a power math function. Parameters were derived from the growth function to be analyzed with yield variability. The LAI was measured weekly by a plant canopy analyzer in farmer fields for 4 years. The dynamics were parameterized by fitting the growth function. The relationship between the parameters of LAI dynamics and soybean yield was analyzed. The growth function was well fitted to measured LAI at R-2 = 0.82 similar to 0.90 and RMSE = 0.54 similar to 0.69 m(2) m(-2). The parameters of the growth function, such as maximum LAI (LAI(max)) and cumulative temperature at maximum LAI (T-LAImax), quantified the spatial and yearly differences in LAI dynamics, partly explaining those in the yield. The growth function utilized in this study is considered a robust method to quantify LAI dynamics and to diagnose soybean production. The quantification of LAI dynamics may help to develop crop growth monitoring with UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) remote sensing as a new diagnostic tool.