An advanced sensing and artificial intelligence (AI) system for the early detection of pests and plant stress in U.K. tomato greenhouses has been developed under the TomatoGuard project.

The project, which was funded by Innovate UK, led by Altered Carbon and supported by APS Produce, Fargro Limited and the UK Agri-Tech Centre, features Altered Carbon's graphene‐based volatile organic compound (VOC) sensors, embedded electronics and machine-learning — all of which is packaged into a grower-friendly cloud platform.

During a series of trials, the system’s so-called ‘digital nose’ sensing capability revealed biochemical stress signals from plants. Such signals, the researchers explained, will enable earlier detection, offer more precise biological control and reduce current reliance on chemical interventions.

Also during those trials, alerts suggested the presence of spider-mites, with the system reportedly achieving 69% alignment between sensor alerts and grower observations.

The earlier intervention promised by this device is expected to help support integrated pest management (IPM), enhance labor efficiency and reduce chemical and energy inputs.