Can NDVI index being use for yield prediction in Solanum tuberosum L. plants biofortified with calcium?

Remote sensing technology (namely, through UAVs) has been used to monitor potato crops. As such, this study aims to analysis the relationship between the NDVI index model and yield productivity in Solanum tuberosum L. plants from Agria variety submitted to Ca biofortification process with two different concentrations (12 and 24 kg/ha) of CaCl₂ or Ca-EDTA. The NDVI values were collected six days after the six foliar application and compared to Ca increase in potato tubers (at harvest) and total yield. The results highlight the fact that 24 kg/ha CaCl₂ presented the lowest NDVI index, however, did not show the lowest yield. Moreover, that same treatment presented the highest Ca biofortification index in tubers. Also, seems that NDVI index can be used in decision-making and improve crop management strategies considering being an indicator to detect plant growth or vigor, however in this research, it’s not sufficient for yield prediction.