Once an unfamiliar concept that sounded like something out of the future, AI - or artificial intelligence - is now a hot topic of discussion in all aspects of modern society. It isn't necessarily a new thing either, as we have already been using different forms of AI in our everyday lives for many years. From facial recognition on our phones, to online shopping recommendations and the best home tech, all of it is assisted by AI technology - and it doesn't stop there.
The use of AI in gardening has increasingly been adopted and discussed within the horticulture industry. You might have even already started using AI to assist with your gardening tasks if you've downloaded the best gardening apps to advise you on plant care. Even some hydroponic gardening practices involve integrated AI.
I sat down with Pam Maynard , CEO of global IT professional services company, Avanade , and Chair of the Royal Horticultural Society 's Council Technology Group, to discuss how AI in gardening should be seen as an opportunity. Part of Pam's work involves consulting the RHS' use of technology and AI in achieving its strategy and sustainability goals. Here, I share some key ways Pam notes home gardeners can use artificial intelligence for everyday gardening in the backyard.
'AI and horticulture are really starting to come together. The lessons that are being learned from experiences in industrial horticulture are starting to translate more and more into what it means for the day-to-day gardeners,'.