Viticulture, a cornerstone of the agricultural sector, faces significant threats from diseases like powdery mildew, downy mildew, and grape wilt.
Two pioneering research projects funded by the RTI Call for Applied Research aim to revolutionize disease management in vineyards through cutting-edge technologies and artificial intelligence.
A Strategic Investment in Viticulture
Lower Austria is taking proactive steps to support its wine industry through applied research funding. Stephan Pernkopf, Deputy Governor, highlighted the state’s commitment to addressing pressing social and ecological challenges while strengthening the region's economic potential. Johannes Schmuckenschlager, President of LK Lower Austria, emphasized the importance of innovative solutions for sustainable viticulture, reinforcing the significance of these projects for the local winegrowers.
Vinepredict: Precision Forecasting for Mildew Diseases
The "Vinepredict" project, spearheaded by the Wein & Obst Klosterneuburg RTD group, seeks to refine forecasting models for powdery mildew (Oidium) and downy mildew (Peronospora) using artificial intelligence. Current large-scale weather-based models lack the precision required for individual vineyards, often failing to account for localized factors.
Project manager DI Christian Redl explained that the use of leaf moisture sensors in the canopy, combined with AI, will enable site-specific disease predictions. This innovative approach is designed to enhance environmental protection and improve plant health by predicting disease progression days in advance. The project, which runs until the end of 2027, is funded with EUR 350,000.
BAISIQ: Detecting Grape Wilt with AI-Powered Imaging
The second project, "BAISIQ," focuses on grape wilt, a complex and economically damaging disease. Led by DI Dr. Michaela Griesser at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, the research aims to leverage imaging techniques and explainable AI to quantify and monitor grape wilt occurrences in vineyards.
The interdisciplinary team of plant physiologists, computer scientists, and engineers is working on creating diagnostic methods to standardize disease detection and provide early warnings. This technology will empower winegrowers to make timely decisions regarding harvest and processing, potentially reducing losses. Funded with EUR 360,000, the project promises to deliver yield estimation tools that align with sustainable farming practices.
Implications for the Future
Both projects underscore the transformative potential of AI in viticulture. By integrating advanced technologies, they aim to reduce the environmental impact of vineyard management, optimize resources, and strengthen resilience against climate and disease-related challenges.
As these initiatives progress, they hold the promise of not only safeguarding vineyard health but also enhancing the economic sustainability of Lower Austria's wine industry. These research efforts pave the way for a future where precision agriculture and ecological balance coexist seamlessly.
Source: Der-Winzer