The ÖMKi On-Farm Living Lab, hosted by the Hungarian Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (ÖMKi), is transforming Hungary’s agricultural landscape through an innovative, agroecology-focused experimentation network. Since 2012, this nationwide initiative has brought together farmers, researchers, advisors, and value chain stakeholders to co-design and co-implement field trials and technology tests that promote sustainable, resilient farming practices.
Operating across arable crops, horticulture, viticulture, and more recently, animal husbandry, the On-Farm Living Lab fosters a participatory model of innovation. By testing new products, farming methods, and technologies under real-world conditions, farmers directly benefit from practical insights rooted in their own land and operations. This approach not only accelerates the adoption of agroecological practices but also facilitates knowledge co-creation, enriching the entire organic farming ecosystem in Hungary.
1. Reintroducing Landrace Tomatoes to Hungarian Tables
One of ÖMKi’s standout projects is the creation of the Landrace Tomato Seedling Package. After over six years of participatory research with organic farmers, gene banks, consumers, restaurants, and public research institutes, ÖMKi helped reintroduce traditional Hungarian tomato varieties—also known as landraces—into modern agriculture.
Previously confined to gene banks, these heritage varieties offer greater genetic diversity, resilience, and richer flavor, benefiting both producers and consumers. Since 2019, seedlings have been sold through a nationwide retail network, contributing to both biodiversity and local food culture.
2. Replacing Peat with Leaf Mould in Seedling Production
ÖMKi has also been pioneering alternatives to peat-based growing media, which harm fragile peat bog ecosystems. Since 2020, the team has tested various composts to identify sustainable substitutes. One of the most promising results has come from leaf mould, tested in 2023–2024 by volunteer farmers and gardeners in a citizen science project.
Early results show that leaf mould performs well for seedling growth, making it a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to peat. A free Hungarian-language booklet was recently published to guide farmers and gardeners in getting started with composting and reducing their peat use.
The research continues, with the goal of delivering tailored recommendations on compost production and use—supporting a national shift toward compost-based nutrient management.
ÖMKi’s On-Farm Living Lab plays a critical role in some of Europe’s most ambitious projects related to sustainable agriculture, organic farming, climate-smart solutions, and agri-digitalization. Here’s a selection of ongoing initiatives:
Key EU Projects:
These projects not only boost Hungary’s agroecological capabilities but also connect local efforts to a wider European network of innovation, sustainability, and farmer empowerment.
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