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Interpoma 2026 Presents the Orchard of the Future: Drones, Sensors and UV-C Technology
At Interpoma 2026, taking place from 25 to 27 November 2026 at Fiera Bolzano, the special The Orchard of the Future area will once again showcase technologies that could transform the management of modern apple orchards in the coming years.
Following the 2024 edition, which focused on digitalisation and the use of artificial intelligence in the pre-harvest phase, this year's The Orchard of the Future will concentrate primarily on precision application and spraying technologies. The FieraMesse H1 Eventspace will feature solutions combining automation, sensors, digital systems and precise dosing for orchard treatments.
One of the main topics will be agricultural drones designed for crop protection treatments and precision spraying. These technologies can be particularly valuable in orchards located on steep slopes or terrain that is difficult to access with conventional machinery. The solutions on display will include autonomous route planning, RTK positioning, obstacle detection systems and precise application technologies.
The spotlight will also be on smart spraying systems using multispectral sensors, electronically controlled valves and algorithms capable of analysing vegetation in real time. These systems can automatically adjust the amount and location of applications according to current orchard conditions, helping to reduce unnecessary use of products while increasing treatment precision.
Another promising area will be the use of UV-C light. Controlled exposure of plants to UV-C radiation is designed to stimulate their natural defence mechanisms and help protect them against pathogens, potentially reducing the need for conventional plant protection treatments.
The Orchard of the Future will feature technologies developed across several European countries, including Italian agricultural drone and precision spraying solutions, French UV-C systems, and smart sensor-based spraying technologies jointly developed by companies from Italy and Austria.
The Visitors' Choice Award will also return at Interpoma 2026. Visitors will be able to vote for the most interesting technology presented in the H1 area. The public award will complement the Interpoma Award, presented by a technical jury, allowing innovations to be assessed both by experts and by professionals who may ultimately use these solutions in their orchards.
Interpoma remains one of the most important international meeting points for the apple industry. The 2026 edition will demonstrate how automation, precision spraying, data analysis and technologies designed to reduce the use of plant protection products can contribute to the efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness of the orchards of the future.
Source: Interpoma / Fiera Bolzano
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