Higher Federal Teaching and Research Institute for Horticulture and Austrian Federal Gardens
Research on all aspects of horticulture is conducted in Schönbrunn, with a central focus on the impacts of climate change. The research institute is organizationally linked with the Higher Vocational School for Horticulture and the Austrian Federal Gardens.
Research in Schönbrunn focuses on vegetable cultivation, ornamental plants, woody plants and nursery management, as well as plant protection. A key role is played by the state-of-the-art in vitro laboratory, which enables research at the highest level. Trees and plants that are difficult to propagate are multiplied in vitro and tested for specific traits such as drought resistance or frost tolerance.
In vegetable cultivation, research includes low-energy production and unheated winter vegetable farming, aiming to enable the production of CO₂-neutral winter vegetables. For street tree plantings, the sponge city principle has been developed. Suitable plant mixtures and substrates for urban areas are also tested.
As alternatives to chemical plant protection products, effective microorganisms are being studied. Innovative techniques and products, such as LED technology, peat substitutes, or green walls, are further developed.
Website: www.gartenbau.at (Website in German only)