SFI Option Management

With an increasing number of farm businesses entering the SFI scheme it is important to remember that some of the options will require a change in management.  Two options that appear regularly are Herbal Leys (CSAM3) and No Insecticides (CIPM4).  Whilst these options offer a high rate per hectare they do require changes in management.  This is particularly true with the use of fertilisers.

CSAM3
There are several aims with this option including reducing the use of Nitrogen fertiliser, improved forage quality, drought tolerance and improving soil structure.  It is important to remember that whist Nitrogen fertiliser can be significantly reduced, if not cut out, herbs and legumes require higher levels of Phosphate, Potash and Sulphur so these still need to be applied regularly via slurry, FYM or bagged fertiliser.

Given that clovers and some herbs are deep rooting, hence the drought resistance, they require higher levels of Phosphate than a conventional grass ley.  Legumes also require higher levels of energy to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere, again leading to higher Phosphate demands.

Potash levels need to be maintained as this element helps with the fixation of nitrogen by the root nodules in legumes.

It is commonly known that sulphur fertiliser benefits protein levels in grass.  Given that clover and some herbs fix nitrogen and have higher protein levels it should be no surprise that they have a greater demand for sulphur.  Sulphur deficiency results in reduced numbers of nodules and less nitrogen fixation.

CIPM4
Cutting out the use of insecticides is a positive move both for the farmers bottom line, but also for human health.  Care should be taken with this option though to avoid significant damage to crops from viruses carried by Aphids.

To help the plant protect itself it requires sufficient Potassium levels.  This makes the plant less attractive to pests as it reduces the level of free sugar in the plant tissue.  It also helps reduce the yellowing of the plant which acts as a beacon to pests.

Potassium strengthens plants and makes the stems and leaves harder resulting in more resistance to pest attacks.

In short when considering SFI options make sure you consider the changes in management that may be required to obtain the annual payment.

To see how nutrient management planning can save you money or increase your crop outputs, contact Phil at pcooper@fcgagric.com or Tel: 07798 673665, or contact one of our other FACTS qualified consultants.