Project in the Ökomodell-Region Süd delivers good yields and seeks buyers
DARMSTADT/SOUTH HESSE – Heat- and drought-resistant, high in protein, and versatile: The chickpea could become a viable alternative in agriculture in southern Hesse. A recent cultivation trial shows that the legume thrives here. Under the motto "Here I am! Can the chickpea become native to southern Hesse?", the project is now in its second year – and the initial harvest results are promising.
One participating farmer has already harvested 4.5 tons, and the remaining five farms will harvest in the next two weeks. In 2024, the results were still characterized by wet weather and a lack of experience. "Climate change also presents domestic agriculture with the challenge of adapting and exploring new approaches. The cultivation of chickpeas, which grow well in warm and dry conditions, appears to be a promising alternative," explains Michael Kolmer .
Development of marketing structures
Because it was initially uncertain whether sufficient quantities would be harvested, there were no buyers so far. A marketing structure is now being developed – supported by the Ökomodell-Region Süd (ÖMR) , which oversees the project. Three of the six participating farms operate organically, so both organic and conventional chickpeas will be available.
Interested buyers from retail and the catering industry can contact the Science City of Darmstadt directly (email: umweltamt@darmstadt.de ). With their high protein content, chickpeas are particularly suitable for cafeterias, dining halls, restaurants, large kitchens, farm shops, and food retailers. Tastings conducted by ÖMR Süd show that the local chickpea is very popular.
Advantages in cultivation
This year, all farms are relying on the "Rondo" , which already proved its worth with stable yields in 2024. In addition to its high nutritional value, the chickpea also has agricultural advantages: its roots form a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria, which fix nitrogen and thus improve soil fertility —contributing to the reduction of fertilizers.
The ÖMR Süd project imparts knowledge about cultivation and develops structures for processing and marketing. It is funded in 2024 and 2025 by the State of Hesse as part of the 2020–2025 Organic Action Plan .
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/Stip)
