SmartVitiNet Research to Be Presented at the World Congress of Vine and Wine

We’re proud to announce that a research paper developed within the SmartVitiNet project has been accepted for presentation at the prestigious World Congress of Vine and Wine. The paper explores the growing impact of drone technology in agriculture, with a special focus on its transformative role in precision viticulture. 

Let’s have a preview of this research conducted by our Project Coordinator Maritina Stavrakaki from Agricultural University of Athens and our Greek pilot leader Theo Kontogiannis  from Agroecology Lab!

Drones in Agriculture: A New Era of Precision

In recent years, drone technology—formally known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)—has reshaped agricultural practices across the globe. With applications ranging from crop monitoring to water and input management, drones are ushering in a new era of precision farming that enhances productivity, efficiency, and sustainability.

The research paper highlights several key applications of drones in agriculture:

• Crop Monitoring: UAVs equipped with multispectral and hyperspectral cameras provide real-time data on plant health, chlorophyll levels, and early signs of disease or nutrient deficiency. These insights, analyzed via vegetation indices like NDVI, allow for timely interventions and reduced crop loss.

• Soil & Field Analysis: Drones generate detailed topographic maps that support irrigation and fertiliser planning by revealing elevation, moisture levels, and erosion-prone zones.

• Variable Rate Application (VRA): By enabling the precise application of fertilisers and crop protection products, drones reduce waste, costs, and environmental impact.

• Water Management: Thermal imaging sensors detect water stress, guide efficient irrigation, and identify faults in irrigation systems.

• Livestock Monitoring: UAVs offer aerial surveillance of herds and grazing areas, especially useful in remote or large-scale farming operations.

• Disaster & Risk Management: Drones are vital for post-disaster assessments and for detecting pests and diseases early, ensuring faster, data-driven responses.

  
  

Drones in the Vineyard: SmartVitiNet’s Perspective on Precision Viticulture

In the wine industry, drones are playing an increasingly essential role. The research paper emphasises how UAVs are transforming vineyard management, from monitoring vine health to supporting eco-friendly farming practices.

Key benefits of drone use in viticulture include:

• Vine Health Assessment: Drones capture high-resolution imagery for row-level analysis, helping identify gaps, stressed vines, or canopy density variations.

• Disease Detection: Multispectral and infrared imaging enables early detection of common vine diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis, allowing for targeted treatments.

• Canopy Management: Indices like NDVI and LAI assist in optimizing sunlight exposure and air circulation, helping reduce disease pressure and improve grape quality.

• Irrigation Planning: UAVs equipped with thermal sensors detect water-stressed areas, allowing for data-driven, efficient water use.

• Yield Estimation: Some drones are capable of estimating grape clusters and maturity levels, helping vineyard managers prepare for selective harvesting.

• Sustainability Monitoring: UAVs support the tracking of soil erosion, frost conditions, and biodiversity, contributing to the sustainable management of vineyards.

  
  

Looking Ahead

The adoption of drones in agriculture and viticulture is not just a trend—it’s a revolution. By delivering real-time, high-precision data, drones empower farmers and winemakers to make smarter decisions, reduce environmental impact, and increase operational efficiency.

We’re thrilled to see this research recognised on such an important stage and look forward to sharing more outcomes from the SmartVitiNet project as we continue exploring innovative solutions in precision viticulture.

The full paper will soon be available through the E3S Web of Conferences and featured at the World Congress of Vine and Wine, on June 16-20, 2025. Our partners will be happy to meet you there and discuss more on the challenges of viticulture. Stay tuned for updates!

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