By Jamie Martin
John Deere farmers using See and Spray technology achieved impressive results in 2025. The system covered over five million acres across the U.S., reducing non-residual herbicide use by almost half and saving 31 million gallons of chemical mix while keeping fields clean and productive.
“See & Spray continues to redefine what’s possible in crop protection,” said Joshua Ladd, Marketing Manager for Application at John Deere. “With See & Spray, farmers can save on input costs, improve weed control, boost yields, and increase their sustainability – all in one pass. Our customers’ results for 2025 show that these benefits are real.”
Developed in 2021, the technology relies on boom-mounted cameras and real-time processors to detect weeds over 2,500 square feet per second while moving up to 15 miles per hour. Deere’s ExactApply system activates individual spray nozzles, delivering precise treatment and reducing waste.
Farmers can add See and Spray as a factory feature or Precision Upgrade kit for R-series and 400/600 series John Deere and Hagie sprayers from model-year 2018 onward.
Independent university trials in Mississippi, Nebraska, Arkansas, Indiana, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee reported average soybean yield gains of two bushels per acre and as high as 4.8 bushels with See and Spray compared to broadcast methods. The studies showed reduced crop injury and better field health, validating that precision farming delivers real economic and environmental benefits. Beck’s Hybrids research also confirmed similar yield advantages, underscoring that technology and sustainability go hand in hand.
Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic
Categories: National