Order Your Long Term Leys Before the Weather Shifts
Order Your Long Term Leys Before the Weather Shifts
Maximising the productivity and persistence of a long-term ley begins with establishment. The seedbed environment during the first few weeks after drilling is critical, and with soil and weather conditions changing rapidly, the optimum sowing window is closing.
Why Timing Matters
As autumn progresses, average soil temperatures begin to fall below the threshold required for rapid grass seed germination (typically around 8–10°C). Combined with reduced daylight hours, this slows photosynthesis and early tillering. The implications of delayed drilling include:
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Slower Establishment – Germination and early growth are prolonged, leaving young seedlings vulnerable to weed competition and pest pressure.
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Weaker Root Development – Cooler soils and reduced carbohydrate supply limit root mass, undermining drought tolerance, nutrient uptake, and the ley’s long-term persistence.
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Reduced Early Grazing Potential – A later-drilled ley delivers less autumn forage, and the weaker root system often delays spring growth, reducing early feed availability.
Establishment Best Practice
To optimise results:
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Soil Preparation – Aim for a fine, firm seedbed with adequate moisture. Rolling post-drilling ensures good seed-to-soil contact, vital for germination.
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Nutrient Availability – Ensure P and K indices are at target levels to support root establishment. Sulphur may also be beneficial, depending on soil type.
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Drilling Depth – Maintain a shallow depth (no more than 10–15 mm) to aid rapid emergence.
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Seed Rate & Mixture Choice – Select varieties proven for persistence, disease resistance, and seasonal growth pattern aligned with your system.
The Takeaway
By ordering and drilling without delay, you provide the ley with soil warmth, adequate light, and time to develop strong roots before winter sets in. This investment in establishment underpins both productivity and persistence, ensuring the ley delivers consistent forage output across its lifespan.
