The aim of this trial was to assess the potential of a range of sensors to detect changes in wheat after a frost event. This is the first step in determining the potential of remote sensing to be used as a tool to detect and manage frost impacts on farm.

• Differences between frosted and non-frosted wheat crops have been detected soon after frost events in a paddock using remote sensing, including spectral reflectance, fluorometer, multispectral, and thermal infrared instruments.
• Sensor measurements indicate differences in responses among wheat varieties. Likewise, there are differences in the responses across plant components (leaves, heads, and stems).
• Most of the 2016 measurements were made on plants or canopies where the frost treatments were visible to the eye. Additional analysis is being made on frost treatments where initial damage is not visible.
• Some measurements indicate a change in response over time following a frost treatment, highlighting the importance of the timing of measurements following a frost event.
• Further research will correlate the sensor readings with the level of frost damage incurred by plants and the impact on harvested grain.