Scientific and yet practical – how is that possible?
05.03.2026 | EVENT
From March 3 to 6, 2026, researchers from all over the German-speaking world met at the 18th Scientific Conference on Organic Farming at the University of Bonn to discuss current topics relating to organic farming. More than 150 lectures, numerous posters and workshops provided space for an exchange on new approaches in plant cultivation, animal welfare, nutrient management and many other organic farming topics.
As part of this program, we held a workshop for over 30 scientists together with partners from the field of practical research.
Making practical research scientific and suitable for everyday use
As a practical research network (PFN), we deal with a central question:
How can we design scientifically robust experiments in such a way that they also fit into everyday agricultural life?
This is because different requirements come together in practice.
Complete data sets are needed for meaningful results, yet the research work must not disrupt farm operations.
Our workshop was therefore dedicated to precisely this area of tension: How can good practical research in organic farming succeed?
Together with partners from NutriNet, KÖL, the leading companies of the University of Bonn and the V. Ö. L. we discussed with over 30 scientists which parameters are crucial for practical trials and how these should be recorded.
From experimental design to data collection
We held discussions in three working groups on the topics of catch crops, root crops and seed crops, among others:
- How large must the test plots be and how many repetitions are necessary?
- How do we deal with heterogeneous surface conditions?
- How to define measuring points on large plots?
- What is more important – more parameters or more repetitions?
We were able to bring together our different experiences. Many of the participants had already supervised practical trials themselves, so we were able to examine different facets together and work out best-practice tips and tricks.
For example:
- Thinking systematically about network tests instead of just looking at individual areas
- Do not place measuring points in lanes
- Measure plots with a tape measure from the edge of the field
- Set GPS points to reliably find scoring areas again
- Define smaller scoring areas within large plots
- Distribute measuring points over the entire area to be harvested
- Count or cut several small partial areas instead of a few large areas
Dealing with failures also played a role:
If, for example, wildlife damage occurs, a new measuring point can be set up directly next to the original one. In the case of less obvious disturbances, the point should remain in place for the time being. In any case, proper documentation is crucial.
Exchange as a driver for better practical research
The workshop was a special experience for us. Unlike usual, we didn’t stand in the field together with farmers, but discussed with scientists in the seminar room.
The discussions have shown: There is a great deal of interest in practical research, including from the scientific community. At the same time, it became clear that there are many challenges. In order to overcome these, the exchange between researchers interested in practical research is an important building block.
Our conclusion that we are taking back to Hesse from Bonn: Practical research thrives on exchange and gets better and better through shared experiences.
