Introduction
Welcome to our guide to cover crops.
This booklet has been put together with the aim of displaying the benefits, reasons and options of growing cover crops.
SFI payments are becoming more prominent, and with the arable standard focusing on soil management, organic matter and ground cover, cover crops can play a key part in the actions required. With more extreme weather patterns coming through, creating more resilient soils is key. Cover crops are one way to increase organic matter, improve structure and reduce run off, which are all necessary to help maximise production from soils. With heavy rainfall, soils that are able to hold as much water as possible without becoming waterlogged are vital to be able to continue production. Conversely, soils that are able to maintain moisture without droughting in the dry weather are just as important. There is no one mix to fix all, but it is more dependent on soil type, cropping rotation, management and destruction. Each farm is unique and the scope for cover crops is huge. Working with industry leaders we have put together a comprehensive range of mixes that will work in a range of situations, combating the main reasons for using a cover crop. For those that want something more specific, we have the option of creating a bespoke mix. The information we have displayed on the key species can help make these decisions. Over the last few years we have run several trials, looking at how the species interact and take up nutrients, further adding to the species information. For more information on this, we have a dedicated cover crop trials booklet, which follows the crops from planting throughout the season, with details on rooting and nutrient uptake. We hope that you find this booklet useful and informative, please contact your agronomist or the seed department for more information. Email: seed@bartholomews.co.uk Call: 01243 755620 Boston Seeds
1
Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker