PDNet: A Novel Approach to Plant Disease Detection Using CNN and Keras

This research addresses the pressing global demand for food by leveraging cutting-edge deep learning techniques for automating plant disease detection. Focusing on tomato and potato leaf diseases, the study utilized the PlantVillage dataset to compare classical machine learning methods, such as Local Binary Patterns (LBP) combined with classifiers like kNN, SVM, and Extreme Learning Machines, against modern Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architectures. These included MobileNet, DenseNet201, ResNet50, Inception V3, and VGG16/19. A custom-designed CNN model was developed with unique configurations implemented using Keras and TensorFlow. The model was tested for binary, 6-class, and 10-class classifications, achieving remarkable accuracy rates of 99.6%, 98.4%, and 97.2%, respectively. Notably, after 50 training epochs, the model achieved a peak accuracy of 99.78% for plant disease classification. A practical web-based application was also developed, integrating the best-performing model to facilitate real-time leaf disease detection and notify farmers via email. This approach demonstrates a significant advancement in sustainable agriculture by providing an efficient, accurate, and scalable solution for early disease detection, which is critical for improving crop yield and productivity.