In organic farming, the use of organic starting material is obligatory according to the current EU regulations. However, sufficient material of high quality is not available for all crops, and in those cases farmers still rely on conventionally produced seeds, tubers, bulbs or cuttings. This research program aims at developing solutions, needed for improving the production of high quality propagation material. The main emphasis is on the model crops cabbage, onion, wheat and potato. The projects within the program include epidemiological studies of seed borne diseases to develop disease prevention strategies, development of multi-spectral analysis and sorting techniques, methods for analysis and improvement of seed vigour, methods to improve resistance of seeds and seedlings towards pathogens and control of silver scurf in seed potatoes. Active involvement of producers and users of the seeds or seed potatoes ensures that the results will be implemented in practice. The program also aims at strengthening the international collaboration, amongst others through involvement in international research projects. Although the main emphasis of the program is toward improvement of organic seed production, spin-off toward a more sustainable conventional production is expected.
[Products]:
Production of organic seeds: status, challenges and prospects Full reference: Groot S.P.C.. 2005. Production of Organic Seeds: Status, Challenges and Prospects. Seed Info, Official Newsletter from WANA (West Asia and North Africa) Seed Network. January 2005 p 9-12. Abstract: The article provides an update on the production of organic seeds in Europe and the difficulties and chalanges encountered. It gives examples of research performed to solve the excisting problems. This research is on seed health, seed production, seed sorting and seed treatments.
Publications of this programme are available Here |
