Switzerland's agriculture is navigating the challenges posed by climate change, with increasing temperatures influencing traditional farming practices. The Agroscope federal research centre has observed a shift in weather patterns, leading to more drought and heavy rainfall, which impacts domestic crops like the Swiss potato. Annelie Holzkämper from Agroscope notes the necessity of exploring more resilient crops, potentially introducing heat-loving varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon into Swiss viticulture.
Experimental farming is underway to determine which crops could thrive under these new conditions. Among the candidates are almonds, chickpeas, kiwis, mountain cereals, sorghum, and chia seeds, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities. For instance, Stefan Germann has cultivated over 100 almond trees in Valais, despite variable yields due to unpredictable weather and frost. Meanwhile, Agroscope's trials with 26 almond varieties have faced setbacks from frost and fungal infestations.
Chickpea cultivation, attempted by René Ritter and Andreas Gass in Basel Land, has seen mixed success, with failures attributed to wet conditions and pest infestations. However, lentils have shown more promise, demonstrating resilience to climatic fluctuations. Kiwis, grown around Lake Geneva for approximately 50 years, face risks from cold snaps and wet periods, according to Matthias Faeh of Kiwi Suisse.
Mountain cereals, explored by the Alpsteinkorn association in the Alpstein Alps region, highlight the potential of upland farming as lower regions become less viable due to heat and dry periods. Sorghum, a drought-tolerant African sweet grass, is gaining traction for both animal feed and human consumption. Chia cultivation, attempted by Christoph Gämperli in St. Gallen, has shown promise with a plant flowering early enough to produce seeds before winter.
These explorations into exotic and resilient crops reflect Swiss agriculture's adaptive response to climate change, seeking sustainable practices for future food security. However, the success of these crops will depend on market demand and further agricultural research.
Source: Corporate Migros