The research project on kiwifruit mortality funded under the Operational Programme of theCommon market organisation (CMO) of fruit and vegetables continues also this year. After the activities conducted in 2024, which they provided valuable data on the interactions between hail protection and satellite monitoring, the 2025 research program will focus on detection of critical issues in crops, providing tools for more effective and sustainable agronomic management, through the use of advanced technologies.

The activities, which will concern 3 agricultural companies in the province of Latina, aim to Optimize agronomic practices to reduce the impact of kiwifruit decline.

Launch of real-time satellite monitoring

The first phases of the 2025 project saw the identification of sample plots and preliminary inspections on the farm, necessary to guarantee an accurate data collection. The observation period will cover the'time frame between March 1st and November 30th, allowing a monitoring of crop growth conditions throughout the agricultural season. The use of TETHYS technologies will be central in'variable analysis which affect the health of kiwi plants.

Vigour maps and vegetative stress reporting

One of the key tools will be Watch, a advanced monitoring system which will allow us to process vigor maps for each sample plot. These maps will help to promptly identify any water, nutritional or phytopathological deficiencies. In case of anomalies found in the vegetation and biophysical indices, the manufacturer will be notified and invited to carry out a direct inspection on the campo. Following the inspection, will provide feedback on the possible causes of the detected stress, such as the recent replacement of a plant or problems with irrigation systems. The analyses will be carried out in parallel on systems covered by anti-hail tarps and uncovered systems.