End of June, around 80 of our BENEO colleagues from the Offstein and Mannheim sites in Germany had the opportunity to visit the Südzucker experimental farm in Kirschgartshausen, where sustainable agriculture in the digital age takes center stage. Under the guidance of Dr. Peter Risser, we gained exciting insights into the current issues and developments in agricultural research, focusing on innovation and sustainability.
Innovation and sustainability at the core
Located near Mannheim, Germany, the 317-hectare farm operated by Südzucker AG since 1862 is a pioneer in agricultural innovation and sustainability. The farm is dedicated to the advancement of agricultural practices and biodiversity. As BENEO relies on agricultural products/raw material such as sugar beet and faba beans to produce its plant-based ingredients with added benefits, knowledge in these areas is particularly important.
Dr Peter Risser, head of the experimental farm, holds a PhD from the University of Hohenheim and is a driving force behind the farm’s innovative projects. His research focuses on modern farming methods, the use of robots and artificial intelligence in agriculture, and the promotion of biodiversity. In addition to his scientific work, Peter is also involved in training future professionals by regularly employing student assistants and interns.
Fascinating insights into modern agriculture
From the moment we arrived, we felt the blend of traditional charm and cutting-edge research. Although the farm has an air of rural idyll, it quickly became clear that the latest technology and innovative methods are being used here. Our journey into the world of modern agriculture began with a presentation by Peter in the newly built experimental machinery hall. He introduced us to current research topics, modern farming methods, digital technology, targeted fertiliser use and biodiversity.
Digitalisation and artificial intelligence in agriculture
One of the most exciting topics was the use of robots and artificial intelligence in weed control. Digitalisation in agriculture is opening entirely new possibilities, from precise weed detection and removal to autonomous crop management. These technologies promise not only efficiency gains, but also a reduction in the use of chemical pesticides, contributing significantly to environmental protection. Innovative technologies such as drones could help to sow cover crops more efficiently and before the main crop is harvested, increasing their positive impact on soil health. If you see an unidentified flying object over Kirschgartshausen, it’s probably a drone at work. Drone images help to analyse fields and target plant protection while satellite data help to target fertilization.
Promoting biodiversity
Another research focus at Kirschgartshausen is to increase biodiversity through biotope networks and integrated perennial flower strips. Flower strips already cover four hectares of the farm. These are integrated into the fields and provide a habitat for numerous insect species, improve soil quality, and support natural pest control. Peter explained the importance of these measures for sustainable agriculture and their positive impact on the whole ecosystem.
The impressive demonstration garden
After the theoretical introduction, we moved to the nearby demonstration garden. Here, we experienced several topics firsthand, such as multi-crop rotation with cover crops, sugar beet protection and sugar beet relatives in the vegetable garden. The colourful flower mixes, which function as insect magnets, were particularly impressive. It was a vivid demonstration of how agriculture and conservation can go hand in hand. The demonstration garden is also a favourite haunt of the local rabbits.
Field tour in perfect weather
During the subsequent informative field tour in sunny 28°C weather, we had the opportunity to closely examine various experimental plots of faba beans, peas, winter rape, winter rye, sugar beet and winter barley and to experience the practical application of the research topics presented.
It was particularly exciting to visit the trial plots with different sugar beet varieties, where Peter and his team study the effects of different cultivation and crop protection methods on plants and soil. Ongoing experiments in the sugar beet trial field, investigating the impact of the froghopper (Cicadella viridis) and a disease it transmits (SBR = Syndrome of Low Sugar Content), highlighted the importance of research in this area to maintain high yields.
The earthworm as a valuable aid to soil fertility
At the end of the field trip, Peter Risser used a soil profile at the edge of a faba bean field to show how valuable earthworms are for soil fertility. Earthworms dig tunnels several metres deep into the soil, which helps the plants to take root quickly and deeply. They also loosen and mix the soil, promoting aeration and water absorption. Their castings are an excellent fertiliser and have a positive effect on soil biology.
Demonstration of the Farmdroid weeding robot
Back at the trial farm, we witnessed an impressive demonstration of the Danish company Farmdroid’s GPS-controlled weeding robot with SpotSpray. This innovative technology clearly shows that the future of agriculture lies in autonomous maintenance and precise use of resources.
Culinary conclusion
To round off the visit, Peter served us a hearty barbecue lunch. Over good food and in a relaxed atmosphere, the the BENEO team was able to reflect on the morning’s impressions and exchange ideas.
Outlook: The future of farming
Our visit to the Kirschgartshausen experimental farm was very impressive and showed us how sustainable agriculture in the digital age is transforming traditional farming methods. The integration of digital technology and innovative practices ensures that we maintain a focus on sustainability from cultivation to production. Thanks to a close exchange with the farmers who supply the Südzucker Group with raw materials, the research results and innovative approaches are also incorporated into the cultivation of sugar beet, chicory root, wheat and faba beans, which form the basis of BENEO’s ingredients. In this way, we keep an eye on the entire value chain of our products, with a particular focus on sustainability, starting with cultivation.
The visit to the Kirschgartshausen experimental farm was both educational and inspiring. It demonstrated the importance of research and innovation for the future of agriculture to ensure a sustainable food supply. We thank Peter and his team for an informative and entertaining tour and look forward to future developments and projects at the Kirschgartshausen experimental farm.
Want to know more about sustainable agriculture at BENEO? Find out about an exciting project in Belgium that we have started together with Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, Puratos and local farmers.