The latest video from the DiverIMPACTS Horizon 2020 project explores the benefits of strip cultivation, focusing on the work of Wageningen University & Research (WUR) with Dutch farmers. Researchers are conducting “new large-scale strip trials to see if crop diversity can fulfil its promise of supporting a robust, plant-based food production system”.
The video features WUR researcher Dirk van Apeldorn and farmer Roy Michielson. In the video, Dirk explains: “We look at how nature arranges things but also use all techniques and machines at the disposal of today’s farmers. An example of this is strip cultivation.”
Farmer Roy explains how he has shifted from planting crops in large blocks, usually of several hectares each, and is now cultivating multiple strips of particular crops, creating more diversity in his fields. “The advantages are that our potatoes are a lot healthier,” he explains.
“You will see that potato diseases spread like oil spills across the field. When you cultivate in narrow strips it spreads less quickly and the other strips will remain healthy for longer. We also see that we are less affected by aphids. There are fewer aphids and more natural enemies that are able to suppress the negative effects from aphids.”
Dirk explains that this approach has advantages for the soil and biodiversity, and offers farmers better protection against pests and diseases. “You really change something in the landscape,” he says. “You work together with the farmers and you notice their enthusiasm, people want change.”
The overall goal of DiverIMPACTS (Diversification through Rotation, Intercropping, Multiple Cropping, Promoted with Actors and value-Chains towards Sustainability) is to achieve the full potential of the diversification of cropping systems for improved productivity, delivery of ecosystem services and resource-efficient and sustainable value chains. DiverIMPACTS receives funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 programme.
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Last update: 24/05/2023 - ENDURE © 2009 - Contact ENDURE - Disclaimer