The AdvisoryNetPEST cross visit in Spain, held on 21–22 April 2026, brought together agricultural professionals, researchers, and advisors to exchange knowledge on sustainable vineyard management practices.
Hosted in Pamplona and at the Ochoa Winery fields in Olite, the event focused on innovative approaches to reducing pesticide use, in line with the objectives of the AdvisoryNetPEST project.
Knowledge exchange on plant cover crops
A key theme of the AdvisoryNetPEST cross visit was the use of plant cover crops to control vegetative vigour in vineyards. This agroecological practice reduces excessive vine growth, improving canopy aeration and helping to prevent airborne fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis.
Beyond disease management, participants discussed how plant cover contributes to a range of environmental benefits. These include reduced reliance on herbicides, improved soil health, enhanced water infiltration, and increased biodiversity within vineyard ecosystems.
Field visit in Navarra’s vineyards
The technical programme took place at the Ochoa Winery in Olite, one of Navarra’s emblematic wine estates. Experts from INTIA guided participants through vineyards equipped with plant cover and irrigation systems, demonstrating how this approach can be applied under real farming conditions.
The visit highlighted the importance of adapting plant cover species to local climates and water availability, as well as the potential need for irrigation to manage competition between cover crops and vines.
Collaborative learning and innovation
The AdvisoryNetPEST cross visit also included structured knowledge exchange activities, with interactive workshops designed to encourage dialogue between participants and consolidate key insights.
These sessions enabled participants to reflect on how plant cover strategies can be adapted across different regions and farming systems, supporting wider adoption of sustainable practices.
Supporting pesticide reduction in European agriculture
Overall, the cross visit demonstrated how agroecological tools such as plant cover crops can contribute to reducing pesticide use and risks, while improving crop quality and environmental sustainability.
By bringing together practitioners and experts, AdvisoryNetPEST continues to foster collaboration and practical innovation across Europe’s agricultural sector
