A new project exploring the role of drone technology in improving yield, fruit quality and forecasting in strawberry production could boost food security, the UK Agri-Tech Centre claims.
Precision Pollination for Higher Strawberry Productivity and Quality is run in collaboration with partners Angus Soft Fruits and Polybee, with funding from Innovate UK.
According to figures from Defra, fresh strawberries made up more than 30% of the UK’s fruit value in 2022, totalling £377m. Most of the UK’s crop is grown in polytunnels and glasshouses, which pose challenges for natural pollinators and can lead to fruit that does not meet retail specifications.
Growers have relied on introducing hives to the structures, with native bumblebees or honeybees, however, there are situations where sub-optimal pollination is present.
Polybee, a Singapore-based company that specialises in drone technology, has developed a system to aid pollination by changing the airflow to assist pollen movement.
The project aims to introduce this technology into commercial strawberry crops in the UK, and improve the yield of class 1 and premium fruit, as well as potentially extend the season.
Katie Clark, project manager at the UK Agi-Tech Centre, said: “As the Project Manager for ‘Precision Pollination for Higher Strawberry Productivity and Quality,’ I am thrilled to be involved in this pioneering initiative that brings together expertise from across the global agri-tech sector and the UK soft fruit industry.
“This project represents a critical step towards leveraging innovative drone technology to enhance strawberry yield and fruit quality, addressing the challenges of pollination in protected growing environments.
“By combining cutting-edge drone solutions with the knowledge of leading growers and agri-tech specialists, we aim to drive meaningful advancements in food security and sustainability for the UK and beyond.”
Lucy Wilkins, breeding programme director at Angus Soft Fruits, commented: “We are excited to be part of this innovative collaboration with Polybee and the UK Agri-Tech Centre.
“Enhancing pollination by integrating advanced technology alongside bumblebees promises significant benefits for our growers, ultimately improving yields of Class 1 and premium-tier strawberries.
“By bringing together experts from across the agricultural technology sector and our progressive berry growers, we anticipate meaningful improvements in both fruit quality and overall yield.”