Viticulture

The experimental farm also has a weather station. Crops routinely cultivated for research purposes are wheat, forage crops, corn, tomato and vegetable crops in general. The main focus of the farm is on the assessment of crop water requirements through the integration of remote sensing and in-situ sensors for data collection and the development of smart irrigation systems. Advanced weed management through robotic systems is also a developing area of research.

Main equipment includes a multiparameter metre station that monitors different water quality parameters including pH, ORP, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and temperature; an IRGA system for measuring leaf gas exchanges; a psychrometer and a pressure chamber for measuring the water potential on leaves; a leaf area metre and fluorometre that enables quick and precise measurement of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters; probes for ion detection in leaf sap.

The Vision+Robotics programme combines our rich domain knowledge with technology: we bring together a diverse team of more than 40 experts in computer vision, robotics, AI, and spectral imaging from all corners of WUR. This unique synergy creates a powerhouse of tech-savvy researchers, united by a shared commitment to developing high-tech solutions that benefit both the planet and its inhabitants.