Inside the Technology: How John Deere See & Spray Finds Weeds in Your Field

See & Spray Gen 2 combines cameras, processors, and machine learning software to recognize weeds and control nozzles at spraying speeds in real time. While the underlying technology is sophisticated, the operator experience is designed to be straightforward and familiar.

Learn more about See & Spray at Koenig > 

Cameras and Processors Across the Boom

• Cameras are spaced across the boom, looking down at the crop and soil surface to capture continuous images as you move.

• High‑speed processors analyze those images using trained algorithms to distinguish weeds from crop and background.

• The system can evaluate large sections of the field at once, allowing it to operate effectively at typical spraying speeds.

Machine Learning and Weed Detection

• See & Spray algorithms are trained on thousands of images to recognize differences in color, shape, and texture between weeds and crops.

• In fallow and early‑season situations, the system focuses on detecting any green weed against soil.

• Gen 2 expands capabilities into more in‑season crops and small grains by detecting weeds in more complex canopies.

Nozzle Control and Application

• Once a weed is detected, the system calculates where it will be under the boom and triggers the appropriate nozzles at the right moment.

• Integration with ExactApply maintains droplet size and coverage even when individual nozzles are pulsing on and off.

• Operators can also use Variable Rate capabilities in Gen 2 for non‑weed applications like harvest aid or fungicide, where living biomass detection helps refine rates.

Koenig Equipment Support for the Technology

• Help you understand camera and sensor placement and what field conditions give the best performance.

• Assist with software updates, calibrations, and display setup so the system runs smoothly from day one.

• Provide in‑field training so operators can trust what they see on the screen and in the field.