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Although there is enormous microbial diversity in blueberry substrate, there is no strong correlation between diversity and yield, according to a new Agroscope study examining the interaction of soil biology and cropping system.

Agroscope researchers tested three natural antagonists of the tomato leafminer on six tomato genotypes. Of the three genotypes displaying a degree of resistance, two were found to be compatible with the natural enemies of the pest.

A study led by Agroscope has deepened our understanding of the genetic mechanisms responsible for grape skin colour. New findings have led to a revision of the genealogy of the Rouge du Pays cultivar (Cornalin du Valais) and contributed to a better understanding of the genetic diversity of the grapevine.

A study on Chasselas grapevines shows that yield regulation by cluster thinning after foliar fertilisation does not increase grape nitrogen concentration but does encourage N accumulation in the perennial parts of the vine.

An Agroscope study shows that pre-flowering removal of the main leaves instead of the lateral shoots appears to be a viable practice with a moderate effect on both yield potential and must composition.

Foliar fertilisation around veraison improves grape nitrogen levels without affecting vigour. A trial shows that the fertilisers ‘Safe N 300’ and ‘Folur’ effectively increase assimilable nitrogen in the grape must; however, their degree of effectiveness depends on climatic conditions.

Summer droughts reduce grassland yields and forage quality. More drought-resistant than herbaceous species, certain trees can provide supplementary forage of good nutritional value in summer. Increasingly intense summer droughts have led to a sharp decline in the yields and nutritional value of grassland forages. Producing sufficient supplies of quality forage has therefore become a genuine…