The Institute for Plant Production and Cultural Landscape conducts scientific and systematic research on all aspects of plant production, particularly grassland farming, in conjunction with issues of cultural landscape and rural areas.
Conservation, breeding and propagation of grassland plants
At the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein, the breeding of Austrian ecotypes of grasses and small-seeded legumes is carried out. A key objective is to safeguard the genetic diversity of grassland in our gene bank and to develop and propagate climate-adapted varieties specifically for the management conditions in Austria.
Grassland improvement and recultivation
The non-plowing method of grassland renewal closes gaps in the vegetation cover and creates high-performing, productive stands with a strong grass hierarchy and a sufficient proportion of nitrogen-fixing legumes. Recultivation with site-appropriate grasses and herbs quickly ensures a stable and erosion-reducing vegetation cover, even in challenging locations.
Soil, water and nutrient supply
In grassland, yield and forage quality are primarily influenced by climate, soil, and management practices (especially fertilization). These factors also determine the speed, direction, and extent of nutrient flows within the soil-plant-atmosphere-groundwater system.
Biodiversity, vegetation dynamics and nature conservation
The floristic composition of the plant population and the diversity of plant species in grasslands are primarily determined by the climate, the soil, and the type and intensity of management. Only regular, site-adapted management can maintain this high level of biodiversity.
Feed production, feed quality and feed evaluation
In Austria, the production of grassland and field forage with optimal yield and good nutritional value is the basis for a circular livestock farming system. Quality-oriented production requires professional management in the areas of grassland management, forage conservation, and quality control.
Land use and cultural landscape
The influences of land use, in particular agricultural use and its associated tasks, on the cultural landscape in mountainous regions are studied scientifically and practically.
Agricultural meteorology and climate impacts
Agriculture is highly dependent on weather and climate. Climate change has a lasting impact on land management. Analyzing the consequences of climate change based on agrometeorological studies and models provides an important foundation for appropriate adaptation measures.
Conferences and specialist events
Contributions and lecture materials from the respective conferences of the Institute for Plant Production and Cultural Landscape
