13.10.2026

Planting begins in autumn 2026

Citizen Science & Biochar for the Traditional Orchard of the Future

The co-creation team is investigating how biochar can improve soil quality, water retention capacity, and the growth of meadow orchard trees. An initial workshop was held involving researchers from the TERRA Cluster of Excellence, representatives from the Reutlingen district, and local fruit and horticulture associations (OGVs) to define the framework for this citizen science project. Meadow orchard owners are contributing local expertise regarding the orchards and soil conditions, as well as providing land for planting. The Ministry for Rural Areas, Agriculture and Heritage is funding the young trees as part of the Reutlingen district’s "1,000 Trees" project. The first trees will be planted on the grounds of the Bad Urach OGV on November 6. During this event, the orchard owners will receive instruction on planting techniques involving biochar and the use of sensor technology. The biochar is being supplied through a joint research project between the University of Tübingen and the Kastaniehof in Bodelshausen.

Learn more about the co-creation team: Citizen science & biochar for the meadow orchard of the future.
More information

Partners

The co-creation team is a project of the University of Tübingen’s Public Engagement Hub and is facilitated by Natalie Lenhof and Oliver Häußler.

Co-creation team partners:
Markus Maisch, Cluster of Excellence TERRA
Gloria Koepke, Citizen Science Coordinator, University of Tübingen
Simon Walch, Reutlingen District
Ralf Röckel, Reutlingen District Association of Fruit and Horticulture Clubs (Kreisverband der Obst- und Gartenbauvereine Reutlingen e.V.)
Members of fruit and horticulture clubs in the Reutlingen district
Living laboratory Kastanienhof Bodelshausen

Additional participants:
Bad Urach Garden Show 2027