Belgian farmer hasn't irrigated crops in 26 years; soil remains moist just 5-10 cm below surface

At first glance, the fields of Belgian farmer Diederik Steyaert look like they are struggling with drought. The top layer of soil appears dry, the weather is hot and there is little sign that the crops have been receiving extra water. But dig just a few centimetres beneath the surface and the picture changes. The soil is cool and moist, according to his viral Instagram video.The organic farmer from Ruddervoorde, in Belgium's West Flanders region, says he has not given his outdoor crops an extra drop of water for 26 years, even as drought has put pressure on farmers across the region. A 2026 report on his farm says he continues to grow crops without irrigation during the current dry conditions.Steyaert runs Bioboerderij De Zaaier, an organic farm that grows vegetables and fruit on about 11 hectares. The farm began operating professionally in 2001 and has built its approach around maintaining healthy, living soil rather than depending on artificial inputs. “For 23 years, I haven’t given my outdoor crops a single drop of extra water,” said Diederik. “And yet, every year I have beautiful harvests, and my vegetables are bursting with health and flavour. My secret? Managing my soil smart...