Frequently Asked Questions
What is Leafscan's accuracy?
To test Leafscan's accuracy, we used the Licor LI-3100C leaf area meter as a reference. We found an excellent correlation between the two methods for various plant species. Typical percent errors were between 2% and 5%. We do recommend, however, that you test Leafscan's accuracy against your own independent measurements for your particular plant species. It is essential that you accurately measure the width and length between the dots on the reference sheet, and then enter these values in the app's settings.
What kind of leaves can Leafscan measure?
Leafscan has been used successfully with many kinds of leaves, including alfalfa, cotton, cowpea, maize, okra, peanut, garden bean, giant pumpkin, grain sorghum, rice, and soybean.
Can Leafscan measure leaves non-destructively?
Yes, as long as the leaf can be placed flat against the white reference sheet. We recommend that you use a solid surface on which to put the reference sheet, such as a cardboard or clipboard. It also helps to use a clear, anti-glare cover to flatten the leaf and prevent it from moving as you take the picture. If there's still some glare, you can take the picture at an angle to avoid the glare. The app is able to correct for the camera angle, as long as it's not too extreme.
Can Leafscan measure herbivory?
Leafscan was not specifically designed to measure herbivory, but the app allows you to exclude the area of holes inside the leaf. However, any herbivory on the periphery of the leaf is not detected.
Can Leafscan measure a whole plant?
Leafscan was designed to measure individual leaves that can be placed on a white background. A picture of a whole plant, if taken from above, may include non-leaf artifacts that may produce bad results.
Can Leafscan exclude the petiole?
Leafscan does not remove the petiole automatically. However, you can cover the petiole with a white piece of paper, or you can remove it digitally by painting it with a white color.
Can Leafscan measure necrosis?
Leafscan cannot measure necrotic or senescent tissue on the leaf.
How should I cite Leafscan on my research paper?
Please cite Leafscan as follows (APA style): Anderson, Carlos J. R. and Rosas-Anderson, Pablo J. (2017). Leafscan (Version X.Y.Z). [Mobile application software]. Retrieved from https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1254892230. Note: Replace X.Y.Z with the version of Leafscan you are using.
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