Have you spotted the Herbal Leys?

Have You Spotted the Herbal Leys?

Herbal leys are temporary grasslands made up of legume, herb and grass species.

And so it has come to pass that one of our local farmers has planted a herbal ley on the field adjacent to the Mill Brook and at the back of the Flacca.

You probably remember the field covered in maize shown to the right. Whilst maize might provide a valuable fodder crop, it negatively impacts on soil structure and increases water runoff which carries pollutants. In Tattenhall, this would be running into the Mill Brook. The runoff would also negatively impact on flooding in the heart of the village.

So what are the benefits of herbal leys you ask – they

• provide more flowers, so they are a better food source for pollinators like bees, butterflies and hoverflies.
• improve soil structure, which benefits soil fauna and increases soil organic matter.
• increase soil fertility, as legumes add nitrogen to the soil.

Progressive farming right here in the village – well done!

If you are walking your dog along the permissive footpath, then please keep them under control and off the herbal lay – many thanks.

Image of herbal ley from Farmers Guardian.


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