Evaluating Airborne Normalized Difference Vegetation Index Imagery for Citrus Orchard Surveys

Abstract

The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) provides relative estimates of vegetation vigor, density, and health. Little information is available on the application of NDVI imagery for citriculture. The objective of this study was to evaluate airborne NDVI imagery for assessing tree conditions in citrus (Citrus spp.) orchards. Images of two south Texas citrus groves with stressed and nonstressed trees were qualitatively evaluated. Stressed trees were easily detected from nonstressed trees in the images. The images were also helpful for developing survey plans of the citrus groves. Our results indicated that airborne NDVI images could be used as a tool to assess tree conditions in citrus orchards. Findings should be of interest to citrus growers, extension agents, agricultural consultants, and private surveying companies.