The main goal is to maintain or increase the competitiveness of Swiss aromatic plant production by producing high-quality, original and marketable (for the retailer) aromatic plants. Innovative production systems that are practically feasible and ensure yield stability, product quality and sustainability are expected to be developed.
Domesticate and provide recommendations for cultivating ‘fashionable’ plant species, especially from alpine regions, in partnership with interested companies.
Breed new varieties of important aromatic plants in consultation with the industry with the aim of improving yield stability, time to harvest after sowing or planting, quality, winter hardiness and uniformity.
Test new varieties from foreign breeders in consultation with the industry.
Recommend indirect weed control measures (crop rotation, leys) and in particular, direct mechanical measures (test new digital and AI-assisted mechanical devices between and within rows, physical methods such as mulching and others).
Develop new plant protection strategies to control the main harmful organisms (pests, fungal diseases) using physical methods and biological controls; recommend organic products.
Develop fertiliser strategies to reduce mineral fertilisers and nutrient losses while maintaining product quality.
Develop cropping and irrigation strategies to reduce water consumption while maintaining product quality, yields and protecting the soil.
Optimise harvesting times as well as harvesting, drying and storage processes to enhance constituent and microbiology quality.
Expected outcomes
Increase in the domestic share of aromatic plants in Switzerland
Contributions to fertiliser and crop protection help to achieve the reduction path
Reduction in the amount of water used to irrigate aromatic plants
Improvement in the economic and environmental competitiveness of aromatic plant cultivation in Switzerland
Value-added opportunities in the alpine region are safeguarded/expanded.
