POMME: a computer‐based consultation system for apple orchard management using Prolog

Abstract

Abstract: Direct dissemination of expert knowledge to agricultural producers through computer programs will increase product quality as well as the profit margin. The construction of an expert system, called POMME, to help farmers manage apple orchards is reported here. The system provides advice regarding specific pest management, treatment of winter injuries, drought control and general pesticide selection. A sample interaction is provided, and the knowledge structures employed in the construction of the system are explained. A model of the apple scab disease cycle is incorporated into POMME to give the system a more fundamental reasoning capability than available from typical rule‐based systems.