In 2024, we acquired a new location in Slivnica pri Mariboru, where we laid the foundations for the first Slovenian Center for Research in Berry Growing. The center was established to integrate all professional and research tasks of the Agricultural Institute of Slovenia. The site features modern infrastructure that allows us to monitor the impact of various production technologies, ranging from autonomous greenhouses to equipped orchards and soilless cultivation. The facility is suitable for conducting experiments across different plant species, from substrate-based production to soil-based methods. In the coming years, a modern field laboratory and storage space will be added to facilitate research and development of post-harvest technologies.
The Berry Fruits Center is also part of a meaningful partnership. The Agricultural Institute has brought its research work closer to young residents of the nearby Youth Home (Mladinski dom), becoming part of a learning-integration model. We implement a “Production School” model where young people are involved in our research work, significantly contributing to the employment opportunities for this specific vulnerable group.
Fields of activity
- Professional tasks,
- International research tasks,
- General public education via the berry demonstration orchard,
- Knowledge transfer to growers,
- Educational programs (theses, faculty practicals, etc.),
- “Production School” for the Youth Home,
- Networking of researchers and experts.
Equipment:
- Laboratory container with accompanying analytical equipment (laboratory balance, microscope with associated equipment, sample preparation equipment, sample storage equipment, …)
- Small autonomous greenhouse (Computer-controlled management of all factors, including propagation benches, heating, ventilation, and irrigation …),
- Large autonomous greenhouse (Computer-controlled management of all factors, including irrigation, ventilation, and fertilization …),
- Small autonomous greenhouse (Computer-controlled management of all factors, including propagation benches, heating, ventilation, and irrigation …),
- Sample orchard (9,000m2) with new plantings of various berry species and varieties,
- Two strawberry tunnels (400m2 each),
- Storage container,
- Office container,
- Tractor,
- Arable field area.
