CSS6/21R Two Year Sown Legume Fallow Mixture (with ryegrass) AB15

Use this grass and legume mixture for Two Year Sown Legume Fallow Mixture AB15 (2021 onwards).

Mixture also available without grass - see CSS6/21
Recommended for schemes that began from 2021 onwards.
Reduces flowering blackgrass and provides an abundant supply of sown pollen and nectar-rich flowers between early and late summer in year 3 and year 5 of the agreement.
Suitable for Countryside Stewardship (CSS): AB15 GS8 SW1 SW2 SW3 SW4 WT1 WT2
Contains: 40% Perennial Ryegrass, 40% Common Vetch, 5% Crimson Clover, 5% Lucerne, 5% Red Clover, 2.5% Alsike Clover, 2.5% Birdsfoot Trefoil
Sowing rate: 15-20kg/ha. Pack size: 20kg

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Mixture Specification

40% Perennial Ryegrass
40% Common Vetch
5% Crimson Clover
5% Lucerne
5% Red Clover
2.5% Alsike Clover
2.5% Birdsfoot Trefoil

Sowing & Establishment

COUNTRYSIDE STEWARDSHIP AB15 - TWO YEAR SOWN LEGUME FALLOW

What To Sow

In the first year of the agreement, establish a seed mix containing at least 6 flowering species and retain it for 2 years before re-establishing. Grasses such as cocksfoot, perennial ryegrass and timothy can also be used to help smother blackgrass and other competitive weeds.

Where To Sow

Plan this agreement into the rotation in which whole or parts of fields can be used. Spread the legume fallow plots widely across the farm to help connect insects with other farm habitats. This option works best in areas where blackgrass germinates after cultivation in the autumn.

How To Sow

Broadcast the seed when the soil is warm and moist as soon as possible after harvest in years 1 and 3 of the agreement. - it is best sown before the end of August. Ensure the area is rolled after sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Information in this article is given in good faith but should not be seen as a substitute for complete guidance issued at www.gov.uk/countryside-stewardship-grants. Don’t hesitate to get in touch for further information.

Maintenance

COUNTRYSIDE STEWARDSHIP AB15 - TWO YEAR SOWN LEGUME FALLOW

Maintenance and Management

To prevent blackgrass heading, the mix will be cut at least twice during the first 12 months after sowing - between 1st March and 31st October. In the second year after establishing the seed mix, cut the area between 1st March and 15th May to help control blackgrass populations.

This option does not permit the use of grazing, conserving forage or using fertilisers and sprays.

Records and Evidence

Keep records as evidence of establishment and maintenance such as, but not limited to, the list below: