What are the benefits of reseeding an existing ley?

Reseeding an existing ley can lead to a significant return on investment. Within several years ‘weed grasses’ will ingress into a sward – particularly if the field has experienced poaching or after a hard winter. These ‘weed grasses’ have poor quality characteristics compared to ryegrass varieties from the Recommended List. These include poor digestibility and a poorer response to fertiliser, as well as not converting to meat and milk as efficiently as ryegrass.

Spring reseeds are effective, especially when soil temperatures have consistently reached 8–10°C and are rising, typically from late March to early May, location and weather dependant. . For best results, reseed when conditions are moist , and when there’s minimal risk of drought or heavy competition from weeds. Soil should be well-prepared, with a fine, firm seedbed, and pH levels ideally between 6.0 and 6.5. It’s important to correct any compaction or drainage issues before sowing. Light grazing or a stale seedbed approach (where weeds are encouraged to grow and then sprayed off) can help reduce weed burden. After sowing, seeds need good soil-to-seed contact, rolling ensures  quick germination. Timely post-emergence weed control and light grazing can help the new ley establish quickly and robustly.