GS4: Legume and herb-rich swards
What is GS4?
GS4 is an action under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme. It pays £382 per year for legume and herb-rich swards.
What do I need to do?
* Establish a mixed sward of grasses, legumes, herbs, and wildflowers within the first 12 months of the agreement.
* Maintain the sward with a minimum 20% cover of other legumes and herbs (excluding white clover, creeping buttercup, or injurious weeds).
* Ensure the seed mix contains at least 5 species of grass, 4 species of legume, and 4 species of herb or wildflower.
* Manage the sward by cutting or grazing.
* Do not use pesticides , except for spot treating or weed-wiping specific weeds.
What evidence do I need?
Where there is uncertainty about whether the aims of the options have been delivered, we will take into account any records or evidence you may have kept demonstrating delivery of the aims of the option. This will include any steps you’ve taken to follow the recommended management set out above. It’s your responsibility to keep such records if you want to rely on these to support your claim.
Field operations at the parcels level, including associated invoices
Stock records to show grazing activity on parcels
If you use the option on permanent grassland, evidence that it has been cultivated within the last 5 years
A fertiliser management plan that is in place at the time of application or within 18 months of the start of your agreement
How much does GS4 pay?
GS4 pays £382 per year.
Which land is eligible?
It is available for Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier and Higher Tier on whole or part parcels in rotation, on: arable land temporary grassland permanent grassland that has been cultivated and re-sown within the last 5 years You must also meet one of the following conditions. Follow a recommended fertiliser management system to plan nutrient inputs across the farm Adopt a recommended fertiliser management system within 18 months of the start of the agreement Qualify as a low intensity
Related links
This information is provided by Farmwalk based on published government guidance. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.