Cover crops are gaining momentum amongst arable farmers as a practical and sustainable tool to improve soil health, protect the environment and potentially fix nitrogen. Integrating cover crops into crop rotations delivers a multitude of benefits.
Soil Health and Structure
The primary benefit is the improvement of soil structure. Cover crops, especially multi-species mixes, develop extensive root systems which break up compacted layers, increase porosity and enhance water infiltration. This translates into better drainage, reduced waterlogging and improved resilience against compaction—a common challenge in the region’s heavy soils. Over time, the organic matter from decomposing cover crops further enriches the soil, supporting a thriving soil biology and making the ground more productive for subsequent crops.
Nutrient Retention and Reduced Inputs
Cover crops play a critical role in nutrient management. By absorbing surplus nitrogen and phosphorus, they minimise nutrient leaching during the winter months, holding valuable nutrients within the field for use by the next commercial crop. This not only reduces fertiliser requirements but also helps protect watercourses from agricultural runoff, supporting wider environmental goals.
Erosion Control and Biodiversity
Leaving soil bare over winter increases the risk of erosion and runoff. Cover crops function as a living shield, protecting the soil surface from heavy rain and wind, reducing erosion and retaining topsoil. Additionally, these crops provide habitats and food sources for wildlife, enhancing on-farm biodiversity and supporting nature-friendly farming practices.
Diversification and Forage Potential
Northern Ireland’s arable rotations often lack diversity, with cereals dominating. Introducing cover crops allows farmers to diversify their rotations without sacrificing their main commercial crops. Some can also offer valuable winter forage for livestock, adding another dimension to their utility.
The DAERA Farming for Nature Winter Cover Crop Scheme
Recognising these benefits, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched the Farming with Nature Transition (FwNT) Scheme. This scheme incentivise the establishment of multi-species winter crops, offering payments to farmers who sow mixes containing at least two species from different plant families (e.g., brassicas, legumes, cereals, or herbs). The cover crop must be established before winter, retained until mid-February and not fertilised with inorganic inputs. The scheme aims to:
- Improve soil health and structure.
- Provide wildlife habitat and winter feed.
- Reduce soil erosion and nutrient leaching.
- Support water quality improvements.
Farmers can receive up to £9,500 per business for participating in the scheme, with specific payments for actions such as growing multi-species winter cover crops of £225/ha.
To find out more about how cover crops could benefit your farm and what mixtures are available, contact your local Fane Valley Agronomist or call 028 9261 0485.
