Establishing a New Ley

• Lime field if necessary to achieve a pH as close as possible to 6.5
• Check the drainage status - undesirable weed grasses will soon invade waterlogged fields
• Analyse soil and correct any nutrient imbalances - 'normal' soils will require around 40 units/acre of N, P and K. White clover is particularly sensitive to phosphate and potash levels
• Prepare a firm, fine and weed-free seedbed
• Roll prior to seeding to close gaps
• Broadcast or cross drill and then roll or very lightly harrow to ensure seed is no deeper than 6mm
• Sow at a suitable time - ideally when the soil is warm and moist. Grasses and clovers will germinate between
  5-10°C but require higher temperatures to achieve satisfactory growth
• If you use a cover crop make sure it is suitable for establishing a grass ley
• A light, early grazing by young stock or sheep (when the grasses are 3-4 inches high) will help consolidate the field and encourages young grasses to tiller out