Oilseed and protein crops production follow a positive dynamic but struggle to meet the increasing demand. These crops are also facing biotic and abiotic challenges that need to be addressed.
In this project, we aim to carry on independent and neutral variety evaluation for oilseed rape (OSR), sunflower, soybean, pea and faba bean, that will guarantee the best variety recommendation for farmers, considering site adaptation and new biotic stresses.
Additionally, innovative cropping system such as OSR-companion plant intercropping, or legume-cereal intercropping will be studied. These systems offer solutions to reduce pest and disease pressure but need to be managed carefully to secure good grain yields.
The implementation of new cropping systems in the practice will contribute to the crop diversification and support the reduction of the use of phytosanitary products.
Bird pest being the main threats on sunflower production, it will also be considered in this project through the GEODE project and international collaborations.
We will address the main concern of the stakeholders for oilseed and protein crops, and support a shift toward better sustainability in Swiss agriculture.