Grójec Living Lab Digs Deep into Soil Science: A Workshop on Chemical Soil Properties

More than thirty orchard farmers, researchers, and agricultural professionals gathered in Grójec on 25 February for an intensive training session hosted by the Grójec Living Lab. The workshop brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including orchard owners, university researchers, representatives of agricultural associations, and private companies. Together, they took part in a structured, practice-oriented deep dive into the chemical and physical properties of soil.

The event was organised by the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS) in partnership with Agroekoton (LivingSoiLL’s Open Call Beneficiary) and other Living Lab members.

From Fundamentals to the Field

The programme was carefully sequenced to build from foundational science towards practical application. Józef Chojnicki of WULS opened proceedings by framing soil health as a cornerstone of sustainable orchard production. The message resonated strongly with attendees, who expressed appreciation for science-based knowledge as a counterweight to purely commercial narratives that often dominate agricultural marketing.

As Chojnicki explained, understanding soil chemistry has a direct impact on virtually every decision in orchard management. Fertilisation, irrigation, tree health, and fruit quality all depend on it. In his words, this means moving from “reactive” management to genuinely data-driven governance.

Jerzy Jonczak then led an extended session on the physical and chemical properties of soils. On the physical side, the session covered soil density, porosity, air-water ratio, water capacity, compactness, viscosity, and structure. On the chemical side, it addressed soil pH, organic matter content, sorption capacity, and the presence and availability of macro- and micronutrients. pH received particular attention as a critical driver of nutrient availability, with direct implications for orchard management decisions.

The Central Role of Soil Organic Matter

The role of soil organic matter (SOM) was another highlight of the afternoon. Jonczak walked participants through the processes of mineralisation and humification, emphasising the long-term significance of SOM for soil quality. He also offered practical guidance on how to interpret laboratory results in an orchard context.

The importance of SOM goes well beyond chemistry. As Chojnicki noted, it enhances soil physical, chemical, and biological properties all at once. SOM increases fertility, improves nutrient availability, supports water management, and boosts biological activity. In practice, it is one of the most decisive factors in determining the long-term health of an orchard.

Nutrients, Transformations, and Rational Fertilisation

The post-break sessions shifted focus to nutrient dynamics. Chojnicki addressed the concept of soil fertility, distinguishing between natural and agronomic fertility, and explored how nutrient bioavailability can be assessed. The training went beyond simply reading laboratory results. The goal, as Chojnicki put it, was to teach participants how to recognise trees’ true nutritional needs. Nutrient levels in the soil directly affect root development, flowering, fruit set, apple quality, and storage capacity. Both deficiency and excess can lead to production, economic, and environmental problems.

Marzena Brodowska from Agroekoton then examined how nutrients transform and move through the soil profile, with practical implications for the timing and efficiency of fertilisation programmes. The workshop closed with a presentation by Dariusz Wrona from WULS on rational fertilisation in apple orchards. He described it as a method in which fertilisers are applied in the right quantities, at the right times, and in the right forms. The aim is to match inputs precisely to plant needs and soil conditions, without excessive loss or environmental degradation.

Practical Tools for Growers

Throughout the day, participants were introduced to a set of practical tools and methods for assessing soil condition and nutrient availability. The aim was clear: to enable fruit growers to make informed decisions based on soil and leaf analysis, combined with direct visual observation of apple tree condition.

A Lively Exchange

Perhaps the strongest signal of the day’s success was the energy in the room during the discussion sessions. Participants exchanged experiences freely, asked probing questions, and put forward suggestions for future events. These included more interactive formats with discussion built in after each topic block, shorter and more focused modules, and the possibility of hybrid or online participation to widen access.

Looking Ahead

The knowledge shared during the training connects directly to the goals of the LivingSoiLL project. As Chojnicki stressed, the tools and methods presented can support the project’s objectives at demonstration, research, and implementation levels alike. They can help improve soil health, rationalise fertilisation, and increase the resilience of apple orchards to climate change.

The Grójec workshop stands as a strong example of what the LivingSoiLL project aims to achieve. The event brings rigorous scientific knowledge directly into the hands of the farmers and practitioners who need it most and it creates the space for genuine dialogue between science and the field.