Related Projects

Excalibur

Excalibur enhanced the knowledge on soil biodiversity dynamics and its synergistic effects with prebiotic and probiotic approaches in horticulture, using a multi-actor approach. To pursue this aim, new multifunctional soil microbial inoculants (bio-inocula) and bio-effectors were tested on three model crops of economic importance (tomato, apple, strawberry) under different experimental and open-field conditions across Europe, and the feed-feedback effect of/on native biodiversity was monitored. To go beyond the multitude of studies on the links between soil biodiversity and plant health, Excalibur developed a comprehensive strategy of soil management, improving the effectiveness of biocontrol and bio fertilization practices in agriculture.

Hort2thefuture

The project, commencing in mid-2024, will advance innovative, sustainable horticulture solutions. Over the next four years (2024-2028), the focus will be on sustainable peat-free substrates, efficient techniques in fertilization, fertigation, and irrigation, as well as adaptive soil cultivation practices. Additionally, the project will explore how farmers adjust their behaviors to these new methods. The figure below schematically represents the various themes.