Two Year Sown Legume Fallow Advice Sheet
This option will provide food for farmland wildlife such as pollen and nectar for pollinators. These pollinators and other invertebrates not only benefit the flowering species but will also provide food for farmland birds. This option has also show positive impacts on black grass populations when used in rotation around a farm.
Where To Establish
It is considered more beneficial to target wildlife if this option is sown widley across a farm to help link pollinators and other insects to new habitats. This mixture will do well in most soil types.
How To Establish
Plan this option into existing cropping rotations where problem weeds such as black grass are present. This will help give you the most benefit from this option. Sowing should take place in early autumn and remain in place for two years.
A sowing rate of at least 30kg/ha is recommended to ensure good plant stands. This mixture should be retained for two years.
What To Plant
Sow a mixture that includes species from the list below:
- Intermediate Perennial Ryegrass
- Late Perennial Ryegrass
- Red Clover
- Common Vetch
- Black Knapweed
- Birdsfoot Trefoil
How To Sow
Although broadcasting is possible it is best to shallow drill this option to achieve fast and even germination.
When To Cut
This mixture can be cut twice in the first year following the autumn sowing to help control invasive weeds such as black grass. Applicants must be prepared to do subsequent cuts as close as three weeks apart as weeds start to reappear. Cutting at the end of March in the second year will continue to help control weeds.
This mixture must not be grazed.
Record Keeping
Agreement holders will need to keep the following records and supply upon request:
- Correct seed invoices for mixtures used and (including mixture contents)
- Field operations at the parcel level. This should include and associated invoices issued if contractors where used.
You should also be aware that at the start of each claim year a percentage of agreement holders will be asked to take and submit the following:
- Photographs of blocks and strips making up their claimed area
- Photographs of establishment techniques used
