Choosing to grow a multi species ley

Most mixtures would be classed as ‘multi species’ if they contain a mix of grasses or clover. However, we can increase that diversity creating a ley that will have a range of rooting types, growing habits and nutritional value.   

Common species seen in herbal leys: 

Multi species ley.PNG
Key benefits multi species ley.PNG

We have a standard herbal ley which includes: 

  • Tall Fescue 

  • Meadow Fescue

  • Festulolium

  • Cocksfoot 

  • Late Dip PRG 

  • Int Tet PRG 

  • Mixed Herbs  (Yarrow, Ribgrass, Chicory, Burnet, Parsley)

  • Lucerne 

  • Sainfoin 

  • Red Clover 

  • Timothy 

  • White Clover 

  • Birdsfoot Trefoil 

Our mix is comprehensive in its diversity of species. But we do also have the option to amend this to create a mix bespoke for you!  

Environmental options: 

The mixture options below are compliant with the steward ship options, and provide a good mix of species, increasing diversity.  

Environmental mixes.PNG

GS4: Legume and herb-rich swards

25% Late Perennial Ryegrass (Diploid) 

20% Meadow Fescue 

15% Timothy 

10% SSMG 

10% Creeping Red Fescue 

10% Red Clover 

5.6% Sainfoin 

1.43% Lucerne 

1% Birdsfoot Trefoil 

1% Sheeps Burnet 

0.5% Ribwort Plantain 

0.25% Yarrow 

0.2% Oxeye Daisy 

0.02% Sheep Sorrel 

Key Points: 

  • The option allows only very limited use of pesticides so only choose fields that do not have a burden of weeds or slugs. 

  • Manage the sward by cutting or grazing. 

  • The sward will be left to rest for at least 5 weeks between 1 May and 31 July, so that the majority of red clover flowers are open and available for pollinators. 

Seed mix add.PNG

AB15: Two year sown legume fallow 

10% Alsike Clover 

5% Birdsfoot Trefoil 

5% Black Medick 

50% Vetch 

15% Lucerne 

15% Red clover 

Key Points: 

  • To prevent blackgrass heading, the mix will be cut at least twice during the first 12 months after sowing (between 1 March and 31 October) 

  • Do not graze or conserve forage. 

  • The aim of this option is to provide an abundant supply of pollen and nectar-rich flowers, and this cannot be achieved if the option area is grazed, or if fertilisers and sprays are used. 

Seed, AgronomyBartholomewsSeed, Ley, GS4, AB15