The exciting thing is this: Our water-retaining granules were applied there back in October 2025 on a steep slope. Now—several months later—the soil has been dug up to reveal the effect directly in the root zone.
The results attracted a great deal of attention from everyone involved.
Particularly impressive was the extensive development of fine roots around the granules. Right where water available to the plants is stored, there was extensive root penetration into the soil. In addition, soil moisture and pH levels were measured on site. These readings also confirmed the participants’ positive impression.
Among the experts on site were, among others, the renowned Grassland and soil expert Hans Koch (LaWiBeKo) and agricultural engineer Dieter Knakowski, geologist and soil specialist who observed the development directly in the open soil profile. The feedback was consistently very positive.
It is precisely in challenging locations, such as steep slopes, that we can see just how important sustainable soil water management will be in the future. After all, drought stress doesn’t begin in the height of summer—the groundwork for it is often laid months in advance.
A big thank you to Christbaum Klug for the invitation, the open discussion, and the opportunity to observe developments together right in the field.
