Grassland
Agronomy for EFA Herb and Legume Rich Swards
A new option under the Greening changes for 2026 includes establishing and managing herb and legume rich pastures. This article will explore the benefits of herb and legume rich pastures and look at specific management requirements, from selecting the right species, through to establishing and managing the sward. This option aims to increase diversity in…
Setting up a New Grass Ley for Success
Management of a grass ley in its first year will dictate the persistence and yield potential of that sward in future years. It can take a new ley at least one year to establish properly and it must be managed with care during that time. This article covers the key considerations for successfully establishing a new grass ley. Nutrition Nutrition is important to any crop but any deficits in soil pH, phosphate…
The Role of Major Nutrients in Grass Plants
Plants capture light, converting carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates, such as sugars which are required for crop growth. This process of photosynthesis and the rate at which a plant can complete this process dictates the yield and quality of crops. Nutrition plays a key role in ensuring the plant has the fuel to photosynthesise. …
Tips for Better Weed Control in Grassland – Docks, Thistles & Rushes
Weeds in grassland can reduce yield and pose risks to animal health if not managed effectively. As chemical control options which preserve clover are limited, prevention is the most effective strategy. A dense, healthy sward of grass can outcompete weeds, while avoiding poaching or overgrazing helps prevent weeds establishing. The most common weeds in grassland…
Managing Grass Swards Through Dry Conditions
When compared to the frequency of days in which it rained in 2024 it has been a very different year and it poses very different challenges. The rainfall across the UK for Winter 2025 was on average 90% of the average annual rainfall from 1991-2020. Rainfall in March and April was typically 49% of the…
MMN January 2025 – Spring Sulphur Applications to Boost Grass Growth
Sulphur is an essential nutrient often overlooked by livestock farmers. It plays a vital role in nitrogen use efficiency and protein formation. Although light sandy soils are most vulnerable to sulphur losses, research suggests that deficiencies can also occur in heavy textured soils in early spring. The application of sulphur can boost dry matter yields…
Integrated Pest Management Plans – Grassland
What is IPM? Integrated Pest Management is a holistic approach which incorporates cultural, physical, biological and chemical methods of control to manage insects, weeds and diseases. This approach promotes practices which are environmentally responsible and socially acceptable leading to more sustainable agricultural practices. An integrated approach to crop and grassland management enables production to be…
Managing Grassland Under Organic Systems
Managing land using organic principles requires a greater emphasis on working in harmony with natural processes. This guide discusses the 5 key areas of soil management, crop choice and rotation, crop and soil nutrient management, weed control and grassland management. The principles of organic farming place food quality, human health, environment, animal welfare and socio-economic…
The Farm Management Handbook
The Farm Management Handbook Your guide to Scottish agriculture The Farm Management Handbook is an essential tool for any progressive farm business, providing a comprehensive and up-to-date source of information for farmers, crofters, rural professionals, students and consultants. Subject matter covered includes: Crop Inputs Arable Potatoes Grassland Forage Crops Livestock Dairying Beef Cattle Sheep Red…
Maximising Clover in Grass Swards
Clover plays an integral part in forage systems, improving forage quality, soil health and reducing inorganic nitrogen requirements. As part of the grassland productivity series, this guide covers the key differences between red and white clover and the management considerations needed. Benefits of including clover in grass swards: Increased total dry matter yield Increased quality…