Multi-Species Swards: Farm Walk

Multi-Species Swards - Leading by Doing 

Farming without fertiliser - Can it be done? 

Growing good yields of forage with no artificial fertiliser might seem to many like a pipe dream, but for Paul & Frank Turley it is now a reality. In April 2021 they established over 40 acres of multi-species swards, ranging from a diverse 18 species mix to a simple pure chicory sward, and a number of the more usual 6-species and red clover silage mixes in between. Apart from the pure chicory mix no artificial N fertiliser has been sown since the swards were established in April last year. Their experiences to date will be the focus of an upcoming farm walk on Monday 13th June. There will be two walks with first one starting at 3pm and the second at 7pm. Each walk will last around 2 hours.

While establishment was a challenging process the swards are now performing very well despite not receiving any   artificial N fertiliser. Paul & Frank have both emphasised the mindset   change that is required to establish and manage multi-species swards. The   mutual support and assistance of the “Multi-Species Swards for Beef &   Sheep” European Innovation Partnership (EIP) operational group has been   invaluable. The group is led by AgriSearch, and involves six beef & sheep   farmers from across Northern Ireland. Scientific support is provided by AFBI   and Queen’s University.

The   members of the EIP group will be contributing to the farm walk. The theme of   the farm walk is ‘Learning by Doing’ and it will provide an excellent   opportunity for those thinking about establishing multi-species swards on   their own farms to gather practical information. The farm walks will take   place at an out-farm close to 40 Ballyhornan Road, Downpatrick, BT30 6RH. All   are welcome. While it is not essential we would appreciate it if those intending to attend would register in advance to help us plan. This can be done via the AgriSearch website www.agrisearch.org.

Register for MSS Farm Walk