Creation of Green Manure

Date published: 22 December, 2015

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The aim of this item is to support the creation of green manure.

Green manure protects the soil and improves soil biodiversity, fertility, carbon content and structure.

Land which will be managed under the Stubbles Followed by Green Manure in an Arable Rotation management option is eligible.

You must identify on a map the locations of any areas to be created each year.

This item can be moved around the farm within the normal rotation and on an annual basis.

To maximise flexibility you can create a different total hectarage each year as long as the area you create each year is at least 90 per cent, and no more than 100 per cent, of the area you plan to manage in the first year under this option.

  • you must establish a green manure crop (such as forage rye, chicory, mustard or legumes) from 1 March in the spring following retention of stubbles under theStubbles Followed by Green Manure in an Arable Rotation option. The seed mix must include at least one annual flowering plant (e.g. vetch, clover or phacelia)
  • do not spray, except for the spot-treatment of injurious weeds (requires prior written notification) or treatment of invasive species (requires prior written approval)
  • you must maintain a diary

You can claim £278.16 per hectare of green manure created subject to the following maximum claims:

  • 10 hectares per year per location code unit of up to 250 hectares
  • 20 hectares per year per location code unit of greater than 250 hectares and up to 500 hectares
  • 30 hectares per year per location code unit greater than 500 hectares

You will need to make a claim each year for this payment.

The inspectors will check:

  • you have established a green manure crop (such as forage rye, chicory, mustard or legumes) from 1 March in the spring following retention of stubbles under the Stubbles option, followed by green manure in an arable rotation
  • you have not sprayed, except for the spot-treatment of injurious weeds / invasive species
  • you have not sprayed, unless with prior written notification or approval as appropriate

Section Change Previous text New text
RequirementsClarification of requirements.To maximise flexibility you can create a different total hectarage each year as long the area you create each year is at least 90 per cent of the area you plan to manage in the first year under this option.To maximise flexibility you can create a different total hectarage each year as long as the area you create each year is at least 90 per cent, and no more than 100 per cent, of the area you plan to manage in the first year under this option.

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