The legume mix we sow includes typically at least 8 legume species including red, white and crimson clovers, bird’s foot trefoil, black medic, sainfoin and lucerne.  Legumes belong to the Leguminous plant family and includes peas and beans.  These plants take nitrogen from the air and convert it into nitrogen compounds which the clover uses for growth.  This process is called nitrogen fixation.  The nitrogen is released into the soil when the plant dies.  It is a useful crop to plant as part of our crop rotation.

The legume mix is grown as part of a DEFRA (Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) Countryside Agreement to naturally improve soil health.  The clover crop provides natural organic nitrogenous fertiliser which enriches the soil.  This means there is less needed to apply as much manufactured nitrogen to the following crops.  At the same time they protect the soil from erosion.

The clover flowers are tremendously attractive as a nectar source for a wide range of pollinators.