We are working on the current challenges and issues of plant protection. This includes the evaluation of pesticides as well as research on the resilience of crops against certain diseases or research on harmful organisms from a biological and ecological point of view. Furthermore, a focus of our work lies on the research of pesticide resistance development in connection with plant protection product use. At the same time we carry out research on how to develop efficient and resource-sparing plant protection methods for a sustainable and organic agricultural farming.
With over 60 employees the Institute carries out research on harmful organisms and weeds which are relevant in arable crops and grassland. The work is divided into the workgroups
entomology,
herbology,
mycology/bacteriology/virology and
nematology.
Generally, the tasks for our Institute arise from the demands of the plant protection law and the corresponding legal decrees.
The Institute`s broad spectrum of topics concerning research on the biology and ecology of important pests in arable crops is being modified continuously due to the frequent changes in public notion and perception. Also the climatic conditions and technical parameters are in constant change, which bring forth new difficulties and issues that need to be solved.
In extensive greenhouse and field trials with pest insects and pest fungi, we investigate the resilience of different crops (e.g.: potatoes, corn) against important pathogens. Among other duties we work on new integrated plant protection measures and we promote the further progress on already existing plant protection strategies.
Pesticide resistant insects and weeds and their continued control can also be added to the research topics at this Institute.
Since 1995, a specific trial area has been dedicated to research on organic growing systems. With several studies the Institute supports the German National Action Plan on Sustainable Use of Plant Protection Products (NAP). Because of our widespread and extensive expertise we are an acknowledged partner in several national and international projects.