TRANSFORM
TRANSFORM project: driving the digital transformation of agriculture in central Germany. The TRANSFORM project is dedicated to advancing the digital transformation of agriculture in the central Germany region. Its goal is to address current challenges in crop production by establishing so-called smart transformation labs, developing digital tools, and providing decision-making support. The focus lies on ecological and economic sustainability, as well as securing long-term agricultural productivity.
In light of climate change – including rising temperatures, the absence of cold periods, and irregular rainfall – the need for innovative solutions is growing. TRANSFORM responds to this need by developing strategies aimed at making crop production future-proof.
Content and objectives
One sub-project within TRANSFORM focuses on irrigation demonstration, where innovative concepts such as subsurface drip irrigation are being tested. Crops including wheat, maize, spring barley, and in future also field beans are being examined – both in terms of yield and quality parameters such as protein and oil content.
Further key areas include:
- Establishing Smart Transformation Labs for practical testing of digital technologies
- Developing decision-support tools for agricultural enterprises
- Promoting knowledge transfer between research and practice
- Strengthening the practical applicability of innovative crop production concepts
Task of the DLG
DLG supports the TRANSFORM project by planning, establishing, maintaining, and evaluating plot trials. It also contributes to the organisation of field days and expert events, where trial results are presented and discussed.
Key findings from previous trials
- Irrigated variants show significantly increased yields.
- Without accounting for investment costs, the additional revenue from greater yield stability exceeds the cost of irrigation.
- Drip irrigation is technically feasible even in field crops, but requires adapted crop management and involves high investment costs.
- Challenges include disease risks, soil cultivation, and the need to consider drip lines during sampling.