CPSBB presented results from the application of technologies for irrigation, fertilization and climate control in demo point “Science” within the AgroDigiRise project

CPSBB, together with AgroHUB.BG and the industrial partner ONDO within the AgroDigiRise project, held a demonstration event in the scientific complex pf CPSBB to present the results from the application of technologies for irrigation, fertilization and climate control in the “Science” greenhouse demo point “Science” at CPSBB. The event was attended by agricultural producers and representatives of research institutes from Plovdiv, as well as the Scientific Secretary of the Agricultural Academy, Prof. Dr. Elena Todorovska.

Dr. Veselin Petrov (Head of the “Financing” Department, CPSBB) presented the fundamental and applied research at the Center, some of the current national and international projects, as well as various types of agricultural crops with which scientists conduct experiments in greenhouse and field conditions. Petar Kazakov (Marketing Expert, CPSBB) presented the experiments conducted at the demo point “Science” over the past year. The presentations were also attended by Svetla Markova, Partnerships Manager at AgroHUB.BG, who presented the AgriDigiRise project, and Ivan Dragoev, Technical Director of ONDO, who demonstrated the advantages of the technology for irrigation, fertilization and climate control in the demo greenhouse at CPSBB. Mr. Bozhidar Petkov, Chairman of the Bulgarian Association of Raspberry and Berry Growers, presented technological solutions for overcoming economically significant challenges in the agricultural sector.

So far, 12 test trials, demonstrations and training events have been requested by users and implemented at CPSBB. The first test of the system aimed at increasing the resistance of raspberries to sunburn by using three types of organic biostimulants from brown algae extracts. A biometric analysis of the tested plants was performed, comparing the number of damaged fruits in the control plants to the damaged ones in the plants treated with biostimulants. The weight, size and shape of the fruit were recorded and a metabolic profile and gene expression were performed.

In addition, the research team at CPSBB conducted experiments with raspberries by treating the plants with bacterial products that promote root development. A full report of biometric indicators was done, incl. fruit shape, size, weight, yield, and also metabolic profile and gene expression were studied to analyze results of the application of the bacterial preparations.

An experiment was also conducted with four different varieties of strawberries grown in coconut substrate under two irrigation regimes. Biometric, metabolomic and elemental analyses were performed.

Good results were also reported in combining the automated system for precise irrigation, fertilization and climate control with organic fertilizers’ application of Californian worm, biological plant protection products against pests and plant diseases, as well as biological fungicides against various fungal diseases.

Currently, an experiment with strawberry plantations is underway at the “Science” demo point, testing two different modes of automated irrigation, along with the application of biological technology against pests and pathogens. A technology for propagation, using root buds, is also being tested, with options for in vitro propagation being considered.

Excellent results were achieved with the application of a biostimulant from brown algae, associated with increased fruit weight, increased fruit size and higher levels of magnesium in the fruits.

Results of experiments with strawberries and raspberries, published to date:  https://www.mdpi.com/2218-1989/14/11/594