A year of learning, adapting and looking ahead with French grower Jérôme
Proud Farmers
In the north of France, where clay soils and unpredictable seasons set the rhythm of cultivation, Jérôme, a participating grower in Aviko’s Future Proof Farming programme, looks back on his first year in the programme. It was a year in which he not only gained new insights but also experienced first-hand the value of collaboration and knowledge exchange.
At the start, the programme took some getting used to for Jérôme: new faces, new systems and a new way of looking at his own farm. But that initial feeling soon gave way to curiosity and inspiration. He quickly discovered that the programme offers more than technical advice alone. It gives growers the opportunity to learn from one another’s experiences — a valuable source of knowledge, especially in a sector that is becoming increasingly complex.
“At first, you don’t know anyone, but over time you get to know each other and start sharing experiences. And it’s precisely those elements that make it truly interesting.”
Soil as the foundation for resilience
For Jérôme, one theme soon became central: soil health. “We chose this theme because in the past, when livestock farming was still part of the system, it was easier to maintain a good level of organic matter in the soil. Nowadays, without livestock, it is essential to compensate for that. Working on organic matter and covering crops is therefore indispensable to maintain soil fertility and resilience. At the same time, irrigation – although necessary – leads to additional breakdowns.
He therefore opted for an approach focused on cover crops and carefully selected species that contribute to higher and more stable soil fertility — with success.
“We see that our organic matter levels are stabilising. That shows that the efforts are paying off.”
Dilemmas between generations
The transition towards more sustainable practices also brought dilemmas — particularly within the family business. His father was initially sceptical about the new methods and questioned whether the efforts would deliver results. But the visible outcomes helped to overcome that doubt.
“Sometimes you need to see it first to believe it,”
“Sometimes you need to see it first to believe it,” Jérôme says. The positive effects on soil structure and crop resilience clearly demonstrated that change pays off.
Looking ahead
His ambition for 2026 is clear: to continue experimenting with cover crops that are better able to withstand wet winters. He wants to create winter ground cover that continues to grow after frost, retains water for longer and protects the soil structure.
In addition, he values the support of Greensol, particularly because data, analyses and agronomic advice help him make well-informed decisions.
Collaboration as a driving force
or Jérôme, the social aspect of the programme is at least as valuable as the measures themselves. Openly sharing both successes and setbacks strengthens growers collectively.
“The exchanges between growers are incredibly enriching. We learn a great deal from one another.”
The Future Proof Farming programme serves as a platform where knowledge, practical experience and innovation come together.