Source.ag launches AI harvest forecasting tool for pepper growers
Source.ag introduced an AI-powered harvest forecasting tool for peppers that automates yield predictions and improves accuracy. Early trials showed significant reductions in forecast error, supporting better planning for growers.
Key takeaways
- Source.ag launched AI harvest forecasting for pepper crops
- Pilot growers saw forecast error reduced by more than 40%
- Tool automates weekly predictions using cultivation data
Source.ag has launched its Harvest Forecast tool for pepper crops, expanding its AI-based yield prediction system beyond tomatoes to greenhouse pepper production.
The tool replaces manual forecasting methods previously used by growers, providing automated weekly harvest predictions based on cultivation data, greenhouse climate and crop inputs. The model updates forecasts as new data becomes available.
Pilot results from growers including Harvest House and Jansen Paprika showed the system reduced average forecast error by more than 40% at the three-week horizon. Larger forecasting errors declined by 28%, with some varieties showing further accuracy gains.
Accurate three- to four-week forecasts are critical for supply planning, including retailer commitments, labor scheduling and logistics. Growers typically submit weekly forecasts to cooperatives, a process that has relied on manual data entry and calculations.
The pepper model launches with six varieties — Alzamora, Gina, Cadalora, Yedda, Frazier and Silverstone — with additional varieties expected. The release builds on the company’s tomato forecasting model, which previously reduced forecast error by 25% across crops.
Lotte Adema, vice president of product at Source.ag, said adapting the system for peppers required additional development due to crop differences, but enables growers to generate forecasts that can be shared across production and sales teams.
FAQ
Q: What is Harvest Forecast?
A: An AI tool that predicts weekly crop yields using greenhouse and plant data.
Q: What is new in this release?
A: The tool now supports pepper crops in addition to tomatoes.
Q: How accurate is the system?
A: Pilot results showed forecast error reduced by more than 40% at three weeks.
Q: Why are forecasts important for growers?
A: They guide supply commitments, labor planning and logistics.
Q: What varieties are included?
A: Six pepper varieties at launch, with more planned.
What this means
AI-based forecasting tools are being applied to more crops, with potential to improve supply chain coordination and reduce planning uncertainty in greenhouse production.
Photos courtesy of Source.