Soil Association Exchange – Insights for Maize Growers

This article by Beth Metson (Soil Association Exchange) highlights how the Exchange supports UK farmers, including maize growers, with sustainability assessments and tailored recommendations. After visiting over 800 farms, the Exchange has identified key opportunities for maize farms to reduce inputs, build soil organic matter (SOM), and access financial support.

Top recommendations include:

• Reducing nitrogen fertiliser use through legumes in the rotation, sap testing, and foliar nitrogen applications.

• Taking up SFI payments, particularly for insecticide-free arable practices.

• Building soil organic matter via compost/manure return, green covers, and strip tillage.

• Enhancing crop diversity through extended rotations, legumes, and cover cropping to improve soil health and resilience.

Improving SOM is noted as especially beneficial for water management and reducing runoff. So far, 38% of these recommendations have already been implemented, showing strong industry engagement.

Soil Association Exchange Article.pdf

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