Russian Farmers Turn to AI for Smarter Fertilization

An AI-powered system developed at Kuban State Agrarian University has proven it can cut fertilizer costs by 15 percent without reducing crop yields.

Researchers at Kuban State Agrarian University have tested their artificial intelligence models in large-scale field trials across 50 plots totaling 4,250 hectares at agricultural holding company Progress Agro. Over the past two growing seasons, the team evaluated a system designed to analyze crop conditions and calculate precise nitrogen application rates.

The AI determined where additional nutrients were needed and where plants had enough. As a result, the farm saved nearly 2 million rubles (about $22,000)—roughly 15 percent of its fertilizer budget—while maintaining high yields. Grain harvests averaged 70 centners per hectare, matching traditional methods.

Progress Agro is also piloting other digital technologies developed by the university. During harvesting, machine vision systems were tested that allow combines to operate without relying on satellite navigation.