In Switzerland MIXED is implemented jointly by Hochstamm Suisse and FiBL. The project focuses on fruit trees and livestock with the involvement of one group of farmers practicing MiFAS (Mixed Farming and Agroforestry Systems).
Swiss farms are small structures and can be characterized as ‘family farming’. A typical Swiss tree production system includes around 100 fruit trees per hectare. More extensive fruit tree production also exists, with for example 20 trees per hectare but here the focus is rather on the ’intensive’ and ‘typical’ system. The Swiss MiFAS is primarily engaged in North Western and Central Switzerland.
The Swiss MiFAS is focused on apples, pears, cherries, mirabelle, quinces, and plums, in association with livestock production. In Switzerland, there are more than 2’000 fruit-growers, and 60% of the apple and pear orchards are cultivated by fruit-growers with more than 5 ha. This includes around 1’300 tree producers who are members of the Hochstamm Suisse association, including 10% of organic farmers.
The network is characterised by a high level of innovativeness, with for example the development of special harvesting materials requiring fewer manual labour. Value chains are characterised by a high power of intermediaries and retailers, but some farmers adapted by concentrating on the direct market. Farmers are also highly dependent on subsidies and the future Swiss agricultural policy may further support sustainable farming systems through a subsidy system.
The main role of Hochstamm Suisse is to promote their label by making a clear distinction across the range of systems from intensive to more extensive production. The Hochstamm Suisse label requires farmers to meet certain production requirements with a view to support sustainable farming systems.
An increased focus on the contribution of mixed systems to biodiversity may help to support sustainable farming systems. Hochstamm Suisse and other farming associations follow this strategy, but an enhanced collaboration with animal experts is also needed to optimise the Swiss mifas.
More information on Hochstamm Suisse and Swiss mifas: https://www.hochstammsuisse.ch/
As part of the two final reflection stakeholder workshop gatherings, discussions have highlighted that key working areas should remain focused on improving efficiency, sustainability, and profitability while enhancing biodiversity. The project results still leave questions about how much mixed systems outperform more specialised ones from that perspective. Managing mixed systems involving high-stem fruit trees and livestock still presents challenges such as animal damage to trees and pests like mice. The complexity of grazing schedules, combined with the need to control pests and ensure tree health, also remains a significant hurdle. Additionally, high labour demands during harvest and still limited mechanisation pose obstacles especially for national small-scale farms.
To address these challenges, innovative solutions such as the "Bosco Olivespeed" harvester and “STIHL SP-452” portable shakers have been successfully tested at national level. Significant reflections from the national team were especially made on these during the deep exchanges and debated discussions we had in Portugal in November 2024. These technologies have demonstrated increased efficiency and reduced labour, enabling small teams of workers to manage larger areas while guaranteeing a high quality of the harvested products. While the "Bosco Olivespeed" proves effective in steep terrain, the STIHL shaker can sometimes cause damage to tree bark. Mechanisation plays a crucial role in addressing labour shortages and enhancing the economic viability of mixed high-stem fruit systems, alongside strategies like strategic grazing and fostering natural predator habitats for pest control.
Economically, balancing production with nature is essential. Sustainable practices, such as reducing pesticide use and promoting biodiversity, are central to long-term success. Direct marketing and the promotion of niche products, especially organic or high-quality fruits, offer pathways to profitability, though logistical challenges such as transportation distances and small production volumes still need to be better addressed.
Moreover, the high value of networking and knowledge exchange, including between Swiss, Austrian, and Portuguese farmers was clearly emphasised. By sharing knowledge and best practices, farmers are more confident that they can continue to strengthen their farming systems. However, a more clearly defined national strategy would provide greater support for farmers. National policy targets are perceived as insufficiently defined and/or targeted to agroforestry, especially for integration of trees with crops.
The future success of mixed farming in Switzerland will likely depend on integrating mechanisation in an advanced manner with large scale adoption and improved sustainable farming practices such as highlighted above. Long-term planning, cooperation, investment and adequate policy support seem crucial to adapt to evolving market conditions and climate challenges. In addition, sustained efforts in promoting biodiversity, improving market access, and enhancing consumer education will likely be key to ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of mixed systems based on high-stem fruits.
Pierre Coulin
Mail: pierre.coulin@hochstammsuisse.ch
Phone: +41 (0)79 401 36 63
Catherine Pfeifer
Mail: catherine.pfeifer@fibl.org
Phone: +41 (0)62 865-6380
Sylvain Quiédeville
Mail: sylvain.quiedeville@fibl.org
Phone: +41 (0)62 865 04 24
