ICL’s Agronomist Insights:Dr. Sebastian Feil

From Farm Roots to Agronomy Expertise

Dr. Sebastian Feil’s deep agricultural roots shaped his passion for plant nutrition. Early on, he realized that farming requires multi-dimensional problem-solving. His PhD in plant nutrition solidified his mission: healthy crops start with proper nutrition, not treatment.

Innovative Partnerships for Sustainable Solutions

Feil has pioneered partnerships that leverage big data to optimize fertilizer use, helping farmers increase efficiency and reduce emissions. One key collaboration focuses on nutrient planning, while another tackles the growing demand for organic farming in Germany, where 30% of production is targeted to be organic by 2030.

Tailoring Solutions to Local Needs

Feil’s agronomic advice is rooted in honesty and tailored to local conditions. He considers soil types, water availability, and crop physiology to provide farmers with effective, customized solutions. “It’s not about pushing the highest profit but about what best serves the crops and the farmers.”

Agronomic Challenges in the DACH Region

Germany’s agriculture is regionally diverse, driven by local clusters and climate variations. Feil emphasizes that successful consulting requires deep knowledge of these regional differences. In areas with variable rainfed conditions, products like Agrocote are vital, providing a stable nutrient supply despite extreme weather. CRFs help farmers manage these uncertainties, offering consistent nutrient release over time. Fertigation is gaining importance, especially for various vegetables like cabbage, cucumbers, and even in potatoes. Efficient use of NPK water-soluble fertilizers (WSFs) is essential to avoid human error in application. In poorer soils with low availability of manure, ICL PotashPluS and Puraloop are key solutions. “Promoting advanced products like Agroleaf Power presents an exciting opportunity to inform farmers about the benefits of crystalline foliar fertilizers. Similarly, ICL biostimulants (BIOZ/BEOZ) offer a chance to stand out in a competitive market by demonstrating their unique advantages.”

Advice for Future Agronomists

Feil encourages young agronomists to stay curious and open to learning. “Understanding plants and farmers’ needs is crucial. Passion for the field drives innovation.”

A Final Thought

“The health of the plant starts with nutrition,” Feil concludes, reflecting his commitment to sustainable, data-driven farming.