Groningen

The Netherlands

Mts. Noordhoff

Alternative methods of fertilisation and soil improvement

This two-year field trial evaluates alternative fertilisation strategies to reduce dependence on increasingly scarce and expensive animal manure. It aims to maintain soil fertility and crop productivity while improving long-term soil health.
Four soil management treatments are compared: standard fertilisation, reduced fertilisation combined with compost tea, application of dried seaweed, and use of seaweed extract as a soil stimulant or supplementary fertiliser. The experiment is conducted on a farm plot in collaboration with partner organisations, using soil analyses to assess impacts on fertility and soil function. It also builds on existing farm experience with compost tea and seaweed-based inputs.

Duration of the pilot 24 Months

Type of Farm

Arable

Type of Soil

Clay Soil

Crops Involved

Practices

  • Use green compost, vermicompost, thermophilic compost, compost tea

  • Apply seaweed

  • Use microbial biostimulants

  • Apply humic acids and humate products (e.g. perlhumus), seaweed