Ecological intensification pathways for vegetable production systems in south Uruguay

Summary

Developing and implementing agroecology and ecological intensification as alternatives to intensive industrial agriculture requires the generation of actionable knowledge to translate ecological principles into concrete practices. This thesis contributes to this goal by developing knowledge and methods for ecological intensification of vegetable farms in Uruguay. Using a large dataset, we found that artificial fertilizers or pesticides did not increase yields of five vegetable crops in Uruguay. Experimental testing of two agroecological technologies showed the opportunities to reduce agrochemical use and promote ecological processes: adding flowering plants in conventional greenhouses increased biological control; decreasing ploughing in onion crops to restore soil fertility still met with various challenges. In parallel, we started work with farmers and technical advisors and developed and applied a diagnostic instrument to support agroecological transitions. The thesis evidences ample room for improving production while reducing agrochemical use and provides knowledge and practices to support ecological intensification processes between researchers, advisors and farmers.