Introduction to Herbal Leys

Ian talks to Cotswold Seeds Technical Manager, Sam Lane, about what’s in a herbal ley and how they can be tailored for different soils and uses. They discuss the benefits they bring above and below ground, improving soil fertility and encouraging earthworms, while reducing parasitic worms in livestock. Sam also talks about the new, more flexible, herbal ley options with SFI.
FarmED is the new Centre for Farming and Food Education based at Honeydale Farm in the Cotswolds.
Our mission is to accelerate the transition towards regenerative farming and sustainable food systems by providing space and opportunity for inspirational education, innovative research, practitioner-led knowledge exchange events and personal development.
The farm is a diverse mix of low input arable and temporary grass, and organic permanent pasture. Our trial plots include blocks of sainfoin, herbal ley, barley, heritage wheat, wild bird seed and various cover crops. The grassland is managed by mob grazed sheep.
At the heart of FarmED are two impressive eco-buildings - one providing space for conferences, lectures, workshops and special events; and the other a farm to fork kitchen and food space, and a regenerative business incubator.
Our audience includes local communities, schools, universities, researchers, farmers, new entrants, foodies, businesses, environmental groups and policy makers.
Our Website - www.farm-ed.co.uk

[@mwmingram]

Very interesting. A deep dive.

[@mwmingram]

Is it not possible to plough in the herbal leys like a green manure as opposed to relying on livestock to graze it?