Smartphone App Under Development for Diagnosing Citrus Leaf Symptoms

Abstract

A smartphone app using deep learning artificial neural networks (“artificial intelligence”) was developed for the Florida citrus industry to identify multiple pest, disease, and nutrient deficiency symptoms on leaves. The prototype app achieved encouraging accuracy of 89%, which will be improved with more data and training.  Smartphone apps will not replace conventional leaf nutrient or disease testing in laboratories for the foreseeable future. Instead, they will increase the availability of expert in-field advice, in the palm of any user’s hand.