Analysis of Environmental Factors which limit Plant Growth Using Fuzzy Modeling

Von Liebig formulated a concept in which plant growth is controlled by the supply of multiple essential resources. In this manuscript, several environmental factors which limit plant growth are evaluated using fuzzy modeling. Descriptions of several soil attributes which can limit plant growth (pH, phosphorus, potassium) are elaborated using fuzzy indicator models based on the trapezoid-shaped membership function. Also, fuzzy indicator models are developed for cases where soil temperature in the root area are lowered so that damage to winter crops occurs. The combined effect of several co-limitation factors is also evaluated using a weighted average operation. Several examples were discussed in this manuscript for illustration.