Open-field horticultural production is an economically significant sector in Southwest Finland. The industry holds considerable potential for future expansion, as the demand for vegetables is expected to rise in line with nutritional guidelines emphasising increased and more varied vegetable consumption. However, horticultural production relies heavily on inputs, the use of which needs to be optimised to enhance sustainability and environmental protection. There is a high risk of nutrient leaching if nutrients applied through fertilisation are not efficiently utilised by the crops.
The project aims to promote the economic and environmental sustainability of vegetable and strawberry production by refining nitrogen fertilisation practices in open-field cultivation. The project enhances farmers’ expertise and understanding of nutrient management and implements methods for assessing nitrogen fertilisation needs. The effects of nitrogen fertilisation and various assessment methods are tested and demonstrated on vegetable and berry farms in Southwest Finland and Satakunta, as well as at the Natural Resources Institute Finland’s (Luke) horticultural research facility in Piikkiö. Information is disseminated to farmers and other industry stakeholders through field days, workshops, and other events, as well as via information sheets and online communication.
The project is implemented by the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) and Pyhäjärvi Institute.