Archive

Seeds are generally routinely treated with plant-protection products to safeguard yields. A study conducted on wheat seeds and based on new field data shows that when disease pressure is low, this routine treatment offers no benefit in many cases.

Fungicide seed coatings protect seeds and safeguard yields, but can adversely affect beneficial soil fungi. Recent findings from various experimental systems – from controlled laboratory trials to real-life conditions in the field – show how dramatically these effects can vary.

Where in Europe will tomorrow’s wine be produced? A study based on climate analogues shows that global warming will redefine the wine-growing regions, with diseases playing a vital role.

For the first time, a genetic analysis provides a detailed image of how flavescence dorée spreads in Swiss vineyards north of the Alps, showing that infected planting material and local dissemination both contribute to the growth of the epidemic.

In Switzerland a large proportion of strawberries and raspberries are grown under protective structures that could be combined with agrivoltaic systems. A study conducted by Agroscope and Insolight investigated how shading impacts yield and fruit quality and calculated threshold values.

The hot, dry years between 2021 and 2025 substantially reduced the yeast-assimilable nitrogen in the musts of Vaud wines – particularly in Chasselas – with direct impacts on fermentation and wine quality.

Mixtures of several forage-plant species systematically increase yields with lower fertiliser input. Higher temperatures enhance the benefits of these mixtures, making them a key component of climate-change adaptation.

A recently published paper by Agroscope gives an overview of preventive measures and non-chemical methods of controlling weeds, diseases and pests in arable farming and field vegetable cultivation.

Thanks to the selection of new clones, the ‘Räuschling’ grape variety has become more consistent in terms of cultivation and wine quality. Multi-year trials have shown that four new clones stabilise yield and quality and reduce the risk of both berry splitting and Botrytis (grey mould) infestation.

Plant-plant interactions can contribute to yield security and resilience. The significance of these interactions in agriculture is contentious, not least of all because the mechanisms are largely unclear. This study summarises the current state of knowledge.