The project focused on two key strategies:
- the promotion of biodiversity,
- an adapted, sustainable management of the vineyards.
Project goal: Natural greening with added value
Regionally adapted wild plants can be successfully established in vineyards – regardless of climate or location. Sowing certified, species-rich cover crop mixtures offers several advantages:
- Protection against erosion
- Increased regenerative capacity after periods of drought
- Improved CO₂ balance through increased soil humus
A particular focus is placed on greening the central strip of the vineyard lanes. The targeted sowing of native wildflowers not only carbon sequestration in the soil but also increases the supply of pollen and nectar for pollinators. This benefits wild bees, beneficial insects, and the entire vineyard ecosystem.
A European project with local benefits
Wilhelm Graiss sums it up perfectly:
“LIFE VineAdapt sustainably strengthens biodiversity in viticulture. By creating site-adapted flowering strips, valuable habitats are created for insects and wild plants. Thanks to the support of the EU's LIFE program, not only was innovative greening concepts implemented, but also an intensive transfer of knowledge between research and practice took place. For winegrowers, this means specifically: improved soil structure, natural pest control and lower maintenance costs in the long term.”
