'Drone knights' protect 200-year-old trees from drought in Germany

Researchers at the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart, Germany, have developed a high-tech drone system to protect nearly 200-year-old trees in the historic Hohenheim Gardens from drought and climate stress. Launched in April 2025, the project uses weekly drone flights equipped with multispectral and thermal cameras to monitor tree health by detecting variations in moisture content and physiological stress. This data, combined with information from about 100 sensors installed in the tree canopies by professional climbers, enables precise assessment of water needs and supports targeted irrigation, thereby improving climate resilience while reducing water consumption. The initiative represents a significant advancement in precision irrigation and climate-smart gardening, particularly important for preserving urban greenery amid increasing heat and drought conditions. The project has garnered EUR 350,000 in funding from the Eva Mayr-Stihl Foundation and operates under strict safety protocols, including licensed pilots, redundant drone systems, and regulatory compliance to ensure safe flights. The researchers hope their pilot project will serve as a model for green