How do you translate observations directly into action?

The B.O.S. system helps growers make faster and more informed decisions.

July 30, 2025

Diseases or pests on the field require quick and thoughtful intervention. But in practice, this is not always easy: observations sometimes arrive too late, are not recorded properly or lead to unclear communication. The new B.O.S. system for onions within iCrop is working on a solution that links data directly to substantiated advice.

In this article, you will read how the Treatment and Observation System (B.O.S.) works in practice, what it adds for growers and advisors, and how the system translates from seeing to acting.

Observation is crucial, but what do you do with it?

Many farms still use manual observations on paper or via WhatsApp. A noise observation is noted, but sometimes gets lost in the hectic pace of the day. Or there is a reaction, but without insight into previous treatments or weather conditions.

The result? Late or duplicate spraying, frustration for both grower and advisor, and a missed opportunity to target resources.

What is the B.O.S. system?

The B.O.S. system within iCrop provides a structured process for recording observations, understanding agent effectiveness and linking standard treatments. Examples include:

A field observation is immediately recorded digitally
The system automatically suggests a treatment suggestion tailored to the crop, time and type of infestation
Previous treatments, weather conditions and crop stage are considered
Advisors can check suggestions and adjust if necessary
The grower receives clear instructions including explanations and time indication
This approach creates speed, clarity and substantiation, without additional administrative burden.

What does it bring to the practice?

Growers receive faster and more targeted advice, without having to oversee the entire file themselves. Advisors save time by working with standardized treatments that remain customizable.

And because all the steps are recorded, it automatically creates a logbook, useful for audits, but especially for learning from previous years.

Future expansion and chain impact

The B.O.S. system will be further expanded in the coming seasons, with more crops, type of infestations and links to field data. Integration with sprayer registration and pesticide stocks is also being considered.

For the chain, this means: more transparency, less risk of error and better traceability, without creating extra work for the grower.

Would you like to participate in the pilot?

For the further development of the B.O.S. system, we are looking for growers who want to participate in the pilot program free of charge. You will test the system in practice and automatically receive advice based on your observations. Interested? Then sign up now!

Next edition

In December, we conclude this knowledge series with a preview of the role of artificial intelligence in agriculture. What can AI already mean for making better decisions in the field and how will it change the role of grower and advisor?