TOMS diverse lay

Toolbox
of
Multi-species Swards

Toms herbal ley

Toolbox
of
Multi-species Swards

Toolbox
of
Multi-species Swards

The Toolbox of Multi-species Swards (TOMS) project researched the uses and benefits of multi-species swards, with a particular emphasis on growing conditions in Cornwall.

We investigated the performance of multi-species swards, also known as herbal leys or diverse forages, including yield, forage quality and micronutrient content, compared to a simple rye-grass and white clover mix and the farmer’s own control ley, at a number of farms across Cornwall, as well as at replicated plot trials at Rothamsted Research.

In addition, the TOMS project also evaluated existing research, sought farmers experiences and produced easy to use tools.

If you have any questions, please email the TOMS team at: multispeciessward@cornwall.ac.uk

PROVEN BENEFITS

PROVEN BENEFITS

Summarised findings from our review of published research into the key benefits of multi-species swards.
PERCEPTION SURVEY

PERCEPTION SURVEY

Results from our detailed survey of farmer perceptions of herbal leys, as well as any barriers to uptake.
OUR RESEARCH

OUR RESEARCH

Results from a range of field experiments, including forage quality and mineral content.
TOMS APP & CARDS

TOMS APP & CARDS

Our App and card set helps you identify species, compare their functional traits and monitor swards over time.