Hungarian university collaboration can help grow berries

The participants in the collaboration are investigating in experimental plantations how the microclimate-regulating effect of trees affects the yield. They justified the initiative by saying that weather changes are not favorable to soft fruits, atmospheric dryness and strong sunlight hinder their development, and breeding is no longer a solution to these challenges. Based on their data so far, they are confident that the microclimate-regulating effect and shading of trees can ensure the future of cultivation.

In the coming years, the participants in the collaboration will study the sustainability and applicability of mixed tree-soft fruit systems. The research on the Fertőd experimental raspberry plantation focuses on the effects of natural shading on microclimate, water management and yield, but will also monitor nutrient content indicators, biodiversity trends and the carbon footprint of the system. According to the announcement, the study of agroforestry berry technology is attracting international interest, and its adaptability to other environmental conditions is also being examined, so it could be applied not only domestically.