Fields & Crops of the MACC SOIL Living Lab
This page showcases the agricultural fields and crops that actively participate in the MACC SOIL Living Lab, an initiative of the Mediterranean Agrofood Competence Center. Through a dynamic and diverse network of producers across Crete (and beyond), the Living Lab applies innovative practices, precision technologies, and sustainable soil management methods.
The participating fields cover a wide range of microclimates and include open-air, covered, and hydroponic cultivation systems. The geographical dispersion of these locations provides an ideal environment for experimentation and monitoring of MACC’s innovations in real-world conditions.
Crops with a focus on sustainability
Vineyards
The largest cultivation area within the Living Lab, covering over 1,300 stremmas (130 hectares) across Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Lasithi. Six producers are involved. The applications include LoRaWAN sensors, biostimulants, and soil moisture monitoring systems.
Hydroponic Cultivation
Crops such as strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are grown using hydroponic systems in areas like the Lassithi Plateau and Ierapetra. The use of pH/EC water sensors and monitoring is crucial to maintaining high-quality produce.
Industrial Hemp
An innovative crop hosted in Rethymno, currently under pilot trials exploring alternative fertilization and soil regeneration practices.
Vegetables & Garden Crops (e.g., tomatoes, zucchini, broccoli, cucumbers)
These are cultivated both in greenhouses and in open fields in the Heraklion region. Applied practices include water-saving techniques, temperature control, and nutrient management tests.
Olives
In areas such as Chania and Sitia, olive oil producers participate in the development of soil monitoring and irrigation management models, aiming to improve the quality and sustainability of their products.
Fields & Crops Details
Pantazis Argiris
Ierapetra
Lasithi
email: arzannn@yahoo.gr
Mob.: 6946683805
PEPPER
10 στρέμμ. - acres
Indoors
Vasalos Vaggelis
Malades Heraklion
Heraklion
Mob.: 6973433387