Climate-Smart Fruit Varieties Platform

European fruit production is increasingly challenged by climate change and heat stress, water scarcity, stricter pesticide reduction, declining adaptability of conventional fruit varieties. To integrate fruit breeding, digital phenotyping, and artificial intelligence tools to accelerate the development and adoption of climate-smart fruit varieties.

Main Activities

WP1 – Digital Phenotyping

• Drone-based canopy monitoring

• Vegetation index (NDVI) and stress detection

• Automated growth and vigor assessment

WP2 – Climate Resilience Modeling

• Heat stress response modelling

• Water-use efficiency analysis

• AI-based early variety selection

WP3 – Green Variety Portfolio

• Low pesticide input varieties

• Reduced water consumption traits

• Carbon footprint assessment of orchards

WP4 – SME Decision Support Platform

• Digital advisory system for growers

• Variety–location suitability recommendations

Expected Impact

• Reduced agricultural inputs

• Increased climate resilience

• Faster breeding cycles

• Sustainable European fruit production systems