The Influence of Seed Mix and Management on the Performance and Persistence of Sown Forbs in Buffer Strips

Westbury, Duncan B, Harris, S, Brown, V K and Potts, S G (2018) The Influence of Seed Mix and Management on the Performance and Persistence of Sown Forbs in Buffer Strips. Aspects of Applied Biology: Ecosystem and Habitat Management: Research, Policy, Practice", University of Worcester, Worcester, UK, 27-28 March 2018., 139. pp. 23-31. ISSN 0265-1491

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Abstract

A popular option under agri-environmental schemes throughout Europe has been the introduction of buffer strips adjacent to field boundaries. Buffer strips are usually established using grass-only seed mixes, or through natural regeneration. As a consequence, their function and biodiversity value might be limited due to a low presence of desirable forb species. Given the financial barrier of using forb-rich seed mixes, there is a need to identify species that establish reliably in parallel with management options that encourage their persistence. In a 5-year study across three different sites we investigated the responses of 32 different forb species sown in two different grass-based seed mixes tailored to soil type. Generally, there was an increase in sown forb cover with time, and this effect was greatest in plots sown with fine-grasses treated with an application of graminicide or an annual cut. We have identified a suite of ten forb species that are likely to establish and persist in buffer strip habitats.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	field margins, plant traits, wildflower establishment, sowing success
Divisions:	Land and Property Management
Depositing User:	Professor Duncan Westbury
Date Deposited:	19 Apr 2024 13:40
Last Modified:	06 Mar 2026 15:41
URI:	https://rau.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/16610

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