Belgian farmer hasn’t irrigated his crops in 26 years: How Diederik Steyaert’s soil holds water even during dry weather

Belgian farmer Diederik Steyaert says he has not irrigated his crops in 26 years. His unusual soil-management methods, including avoiding ploughing, adding decomposed grass and allowing natural vegetation to grow, are drawing attention online. An Instagram video appeared to show moisture just 5–10 centimeters below the dry surface, highlighting how healthy, organic-rich soil may retain rainwater for longer during dry weather and heat waves.