Vol. 9, Special Issue 12, Part E (2025)

Precision horticulture constitutes a new paradigm of crop production, which utilizes digital, geospatial, and automation technologies to manage spatial and temporal variability in fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals. In this regard, this review focused on the development, features, and exploitation of digital tools, which are differentiating existing and emerging smart horticultural systems. Among these, a number of key enabling technologies exist including IoT, remote sensing, drones, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and robotics which facilitate technology convergence to realize the continuous sensing, predictive analysis, and data-driven decisions related to irrigation, fertigation, pest management and postharvest handling. GIS-based zoning, sensor networks, Variable-Rate Technologies (VRT) and cloud-based Decision Support System (DSS) are integrated to improve resource use efficiency, crop yield, and environmental protection. Furthermore, developments such as blockchain-based traceability and autonomous greenhouse and orchard solutions signify the increasing influence of digitization in horticulture. Still, challenges pertaining to technology costs, data interoperability, infrastructure, and access for smallholder farmers continue to pose major roadblocks for comprehensive uptake. It is anticipated that future development will depend on AIoT convergence, digital twins, climate smart analytics, and the realization of economically feasible and scalable solutions. In the end, precision horticulture, through the convergence of technologic innovation, data intelligence, and ecological stewardship, perhaps best embodies a sustainable pathway to resilient, productive, and climate-adaptive horticultural systems within the concept of Agriculture 5.0.