Hyperspectral Data Analysis of N-fertilisation Effects on Winter Wheat: a Case Study of Huimin County, North China Plain

High nitrogen fertiliser applications are very common in many densely populated areas as in the North China Plain (NCP). A still growing population and an ongoing economic progress enforce that process. Remote sensing methods can help to optimize the N-management for diagnosing crop N status on a field and regional level. For that purpose, spectral and agronomic data were collected during the vegetation period of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in 2006 and in 2007 in the study area of Huimin County. In a post-processing step, a hyperspectral and agronomic data library was established which enables the analysis of spectra in dependence of agronomic data. The investigated parameters include biomass, N-uptake, LAI (Leaf Area Index), plant height and others. Finally, a model was developed which could be applied for extrapolation of the regional knowledge by using hyperspectral air or satellite borne remote sensing data. This paper shows that the collection and postprocessing of spectral and agronomic data of winter wheat in combination with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and RS (Remote Sensing) analysis help to identify over-fertilised and undersupplied managements for different phenological stages from shooting to heading. * Corresponding author.