@misc{orgprints31040,
          series = {OK-Net Arable Practice abstract},
            year = {2017},
           title = {Diverse fertility building leys in arable rotations (OK-Net Arable Practice Abstract)},
          author = {Katie Bliss and Mark Measures},
           pages = {1--3},
             url = {https://orgprints.org/id/eprint/31040/},
        abstract = {The results of a three year study in the UK suggest that there are several advantages to more complex mixtures; 
? Greater resilience to variable conditions
? Combine early and late weed suppression ? Slower decomposition on incorporation
? Extends forage availability for key insect pollinators
? Generally achieve higher forage yields
? Potential for higher subsequent crop yields. 
Practical recommendation 
? There are a number of plant characteristics that have an impact on nitrogen release and mobilisation, namely C:N ratio, lignin and polyphenol content which result in slower N release and lower N losses or better N utilisation.
? Including grass species in the mix takes up the N fixed by the legumes and reduces the free N in the soil; the rhizobia bacteria respond to the low soil N, resulting in higher N fixation and greater biomass. Moreover the higher C:N ratio prolongs the release of N to subsequent crops. The balance of grass and legumes is important.
? The annual N accumulation of ley mixtures decreases after two years, although there may be other advantages from longer leys such as weed control.
? In terms of forage yield including a 3rd or 4th legume is generally advantageous.
? The best multifunctional mixtures contain one or more species of Black Medic, Lucerne and Red Clover, plus other legumes according to the circumstances.},
        keywords = {arable farming, crop rotation, crop species, legumes, nitrogen, nutrient management, pest control, weed management, soil quality, plant dosease control}
}