Evolution and Application of Precision Fertilizer: A Review

This paper reviews technological advances in precision fertilizer application from 2020 to 2025, addressing the need for a systematic synthesis of recent innovations to support agricultural sustainability. With precision fertilization critical for efficient resource use, rapid technological progress in this field has highlighted a gap in consolidated overviews of post-2020 developments. The review focuses on three core areas: device innovation, intelligent control optimization, and simulation-driven parameter refinement. Key advancements include structural improvements in fertilizer applicators (e.g., multi-segment arc and variable-diameter designs) enhancing discharge uniformity and accuracy; integration of algorithms like PSO, fuzzy logic, and RBFNN (e.g., PSO-RBF-PID reducing flow control errors) boosting control precision; and DEM/CFD simulations optimizing device parameters. These technologies, applied in scenarios from drone-based unmanned operations to automatic targeting systems, have shown potential in reducing fertilizer use and increasing crop yields. This synthesis clarifies recent progress, offering insights for green agricultural development. Note that a few pre-2020 references are included for foundational context, ensuring completeness.