The project aims to expand apricot production in the German-speaking part of Switzerland using new cultivation methods and minimal plant protection (without synthetic pesticides).
To gather more information about apricot varieties under the environmental conditions in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, data on variety suitability is being collected on commercial farms in parallel with a variety testing trial at FiBL in Frick. The varieties are being assessed for yield, fruit quality, susceptibility to diseases and pests, with a focus on minimizing the use of plant protection. Additionally, the economic efficiency of three different cultivation systems will be compared: open field, seasonal cover, and year-round cover (tunnel). To manage pests, trials on open rearing of beneficial insects and measures to promote their presence are being conducted. Initially, trials will take place at FiBL to develop a practical system, followed by testing this system on commercial farms.
Project management
