June 2025 marked an exciting milestone for the AdvisoryNetPEST project, as we launched our cross-visit programme with five innovative events across Europe.

These visits bring together farmers, advisers, and stakeholders to explore hands-on examples of novel practices in pesticide reduction and integrated pest management (IPM). With topics ranging from biological control to decision support tools and regenerative systems, the June programme had diversity in both geography and approach.

Bulgaria: Ecological Solutions Against Tomato Moth

In Bulgaria, participants discovered an ecological spray technique aimed at combating fungal diseases and pests such as the tomato moth (Tuta absoluta). The method combines natural ingredients—raw milk, bicarbonate of soda, aspirin, and yeast—to enhance plant resilience and control disease. Pheromone traps and bioagents like Macrolophus caliginosus and Nesidiocoris tenuis are also deployed for pest monitoring and control. This visit offered a compelling look at accessible, low-impact plant protection methods.

Spain: Mating Disruption in Artichoke Crops

In Navarra, Spain, the spotlight is on the pest Gortyna xanthenes affecting artichokes. With conventional insecticides proving ineffective, the region is trialling mating disruption as a sustainable alternative. After four years of experimentation, this visit provides an opportunity to delve into early results and exchange insights on pest control strategies that are already in use in other crops.

Latvia: Regenerative Farming in Practice

The Latvian cross-visit invited participants to explore a regenerative agriculture system that replaces conventional inputs with microbial plant protection products. The event took place in Dienvidkurzeme, and featured a field visit and expert lecture on soil health, followed by cultural and community elements including a walk through the historic town of Aizpute and local farm-to-fork initiatives. It gave a holistic view of how regenerative principles are being implemented on the ground.

Denmark: Digital Monitoring for Real-Time Decision-Making

In Denmark, attention shifts to digital innovation with a visit centred on the “Registreringsnet” monitoring tool. Developed by SEGES Innovation and advisers, this platform enables real-time tracking of pest and disease outbreaks across the country. Participants joined a farm visit and open field trials to see how data collection feeds directly into practical decision-making, helping advisers and farmers stay one step ahead.

United Kingdom: Decision Support in IPM

The UK event explored how decision support systems (DSS) are revolutionising IPM strategies. Hosted near Cambridge and in conjunction with the Morley Innovation Day and AHDB’s Strategic Cereal Farm East Open Day, this visit offers participants the chance to see cutting-edge disease forecasting tools in action. While the official programme does not include sightseeing, the location offers participants the opportunity to explore the historic surroundings of Cambridge on their own.

Each of these events highlighted the creativity and commitment of farmers and advisers working to reduce pesticide use and risk. They also provide a unique space for peer learning and cross-border collaboration—core to the AdvisoryNetPEST mission.