Assessing how irrigation practices and soil moisture affect crop growth through monitoring Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data

Abstract

This study authorizes processes and approaches using optical and microwave data to determine the availability of water in the study area at any given moment. This will aid in identifying the optimal time and location for irrigation to enhance crop growth. For this purpose, a set of spectral vegetation parameters (from Sentinel-2), soil moisture (from Sentinel-1), evapotranspiration, and surface temperature (from Landsat-8) were used, along with field data on water content and irrigation timing. The results showed that both NDVI and NDMI are highly sensitive to moisture, making them the best indices for determining the timing and location of irrigation. This research contributes to sustainable agricultural development. It has implications for farmers, policymakers, and researchers in optimizing irrigation schedules, developing policies for sustainable agriculture, and enhancing crop productivity while conserving water resources. This approach can be particularly useful in regions facing water scarcity, where the efficient use of water resources is crucial for sustainable agricultural development