PFN Field day at Gut Mönchhof

On July 2, 2024, around 60 participants gathered at the idyllically located Gut Mönchhof to take part in an exciting field day organized by the Practical Research Network (PFN) Hessen. Under the theme “Breeding, Propagation, Research“, the event provided insights into current agricultural research projects and practical innovations. The farm, which belongs to PFN Hessen’s arable farming group, is beautifully situated at the foot of the Meißner mountain.

Diversity in the Fields: A Focus on Seed Propagation and Research

During a field tour, participants explored the extensive fields of Gut Mönchhof in two groups. Even on the way, the impressive diversity of cultivated crops, used for seed propagation, was striking.

At the first station, “Where does the nitrogen from cover crops go?”, Johanna Hoppe from the University of Kassel presented initial results from the PFN project UMKREIS. She guided the group through two adjacent experimental fields, where the effects of different cover crop mixtures and soil management strategies were being studied. Participants could observe the differences firsthand and gain valuable insights into how cultivation techniques influence nitrogen dynamics.

The second station featured the spelt breeding garden at Gut Mönchhof – a highlight for those interested in modern organic grain breeding. Farm manager Catherine Cuendet led the group through the impressive one-hectare breeding garden, explaining the specifics of ecological grain breeding. In the heart of the garden, spelt varieties are bred and propagated to meet the demands of organic farming.

After the informative stops, participants enjoyed a well-deserved coffee break. Over coffee and cake, they eagerly discussed their impressions and exchanged experiences before continuing with a tour of the farm.

Jens Müller Cuendet, also a farm manager, introduced the operations of the farm. Particularly interesting was the seed cleaning process and the organization of the seed storage, both crucial elements of the farm’s workflow. Another topic of discussion was the gentle soil cultivation techniques: using small tractors, twin tires for reduced soil compaction, and a specialized ridge-forming implement following the Turiel method, the farm ensures sustainable and careful soil management.

A Successful Afternoon with Positive Feedback

Thanks to the excellent weather, all program points took place as planned. The day concluded with overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, who particularly appreciated the combination of hands-on demonstrations and scientific background information.

The event at Gut Mönchhof impressively demonstrated how innovative agricultural approaches can be tested and successfully implemented not only in the lab but directly in the field.

A truly successful afternoon that inspired participants and strengthened the exchange between research and practice.