Water-repellent peat soils in Friesland: factsheet

Water-repellent peat soils in Friesland cause poor grass growth during dry periods. Farmers face declining soil moisture retention due to hydrophobicity, a problem reported for 80 years. Dry, hot summers intensify this issue, leading to water runoff and reduced groundwater recharge. Measures like adding clay, lime, gypsum, or surfactants may restore soil hydrophobicity. Field trials (2020–2022) assess effectiveness under varying weather conditions.