Our research focuses on sustainable cultivation of plants for food, feed, energy, and fibre
We aim to contribute to the cropping systems of the future, where higher quality and yields are combined with better use of ecosystem services and minimal negative impact on the environment.
Our courses cover the biology and ecology of plants
You will gain knowledge about how production methods and cropping systems affect yield, quality, and the environment, knowledge that is essential for designing sustainable farming systems. We teach courses within SLU’s bachelor’s and master’s programmes, offer undergraduate courses, and provide postgraduate studies.
A Department at the forefront of crop production research
The Department of Crop Production Ecology conducts research, teaching, and collaboration to support the agriculture of the future. As part of SLU’s internationally leading research community, we are a force in the transition to both productive and climate-smart farming. Through our research, collaboration, and education, we contribute to sustainable development.
Resources and collaboration
At the Department of Crop Production Ecology, several units and infrastructures serve as important resources, not only for the Department and SLU, but also for society at large. They support research, education, and collaboration, and contribute with expertise, data, and technical solutions. Here you find webpages with information about SLU Fältforsk, our field research stations, SLU Agricultural Long-Term Experiments and more.
News
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Growing a broad set of crops does not threaten food security – quite the opposite
Crop rotations with a broad set of crops can produce more calories and nutrients than growing only cereals year after year. This result of an international study led by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) challenges the common argument that diverse crop rotations produce less food. -
Adviser: A Long Awaited Digital Boost for Smarter Forage Production
Researchs project CyberGrass’ promise of new digital tools to optimize forage production using remote sensing has been met with enthusiasm among agricultural advisers. “Today we lack any real forecasting support for the second and third cuts,” says agricultural adviser Benjamin Bollhöner. -
SLU researcher Marcos Lana shared expertise at COP30
He placed the science of agroecology at the heart of the climate negotiations. SLU researcher Marcos Lana gave two presentations at COP30 in Brazil.
Research projects
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Transforming the food value chain based on ecologically and economically sustainable crop production (TRANSECO)
We assess the capacity for upscaling of agroecology practices and business models by examining actor-specific motivations for adoption on large actor populations in the value chain. Gained knowledge will inform policymakers for the transition to sustainable and resilient food systems. -
Wet Grain in Package
New method for packing, storing and handling of crimped ensiled grain. -
NP-balans
The project increases the expertise to refine and use the digestate that arises in connection with biogas production. By adapting the nutrient content of the digestate for its intended use as fertilizer, its value can be increased. -
GrassRefine
We develop systems for cropping, processing and characterisation of biomass from grass intercropped with legumes for different purposes. -
Crop Production Systems, subject area within SLU Agricultural Long-Term Experiments
Crop rotation trials provide information about the efficiency of cropping systems from various perspectives. Data from the experiments - many of which have been running since the 1960s - can also be used for other studies, such as simulating how climate changes or farming practices affect yield.
Research groups
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Plant ecology - Crop production in relation to genotype and environment
We conduct research to develop and identify crops and crop mixtures that efficiently utilize the available resources by collaboration with microbes and resistance against diseases, pests and extreme weather conditions that are becoming more common due to climate change. -
Short rotation forestry
Fast-growing deciduous tree species can be used to replace fossil fuels and to diminish human impact on the climate. Our research contributes to a more efficient and environmentally sustainable cultivation of tree plantations for bio-energy purposes. -
Crop production specialized in forage
The overall aim of the research group is to create knowledge that promotes sustainable and competitive agricultural systems that are based on forages, like leys, pastures and whole-crops, and ensures the supply of environmentally sustainable food from ruminants. -
Cropping systems
Our research contributes to the development of sustainable and ethical cropping systems. To achieve that goal, our team employ various interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research approaches from the crop level to the food system scale. -
Weed ecology and management
We study both basic and applied aspects of the ecology and management of weeds in agriculture.