Multi-species swards

This information is for UK farmers interested in increasing the diversity of their pastures. It provides practical advice and management strategies covering all stages of multi-species swards, from establishment to grazing and cutting, so you can maximise the benefits of a more diverse sward.

Multi-species swards – also known as herbal leys – include a range of clovers, herbs and grasses, with many different mixes and options available.  

Multi-species leys differ from species-rich grassland as they contain sown productive species in temporary grassland.

Learn about the components of a multi-species sward and whether it is suitable for your system.

Multi-species swards can play a central role in improving soil health and increasing carbon capture in grassland systems.

Healthy, well-structured soil is the foundation of successful multi-species swards.

Successful establishment is critical to the long-term performance of multi-species swards.

Overseeding can be a cost-effective way to introduce clovers and herbs into an existing grass ley, boosting productivity, resilience and soil function without the disruption of a full reseed.

Seedlings are vulnerable in the early weeks and decisions around rolling, moisture, nutrients and grazing can make the difference between even establishment and patchy, unbalanced swards.

Effective weed control is essential for maintaining the productivity of multi-species swards.

Pests and diseases can affect individual species within multi-species swards more than others, potentially altering sward balance if not managed early.

Different species have varying growth patterns and responses to weather conditions. Adjusting grazing and cutting strategies through the year helps maintain forage quality, animal performance and sward longevity.

The right mix can improve forage quality, support livestock performance, reduce fertiliser inputs, build soil resilience and help future-proof the system against weather extremes.

When a single species takes over, biodiversity declines, forage quality can suffer and the risks from pests, diseases and nutritional imbalances increase.

Multi-species swards can match – and in some cases exceed – the nutritional performance of conventional rye-grass swards while offering greater flexibility across the season.

Multi-species swards can support healthier, more resilient livestock while reducing reliance on chemical and purchased inputs.

Grazing systems that allow for short grazing periods and longer rest periods are essential; herbs can also struggle if grazed hard for long periods.

Red and white clover fix nitrogen naturally, boost crude protein and increase overall sward productivity, but they differ significantly in growth habit, persistence and management.

Cutting and harvesting multi-species swards for hay or silage requires careful management to ensure maximum yield, quality and persistence of the sward.