Unlocking the Benefits of SFI for Your Farm: Insights from Agrii Experts

In this episode, host Tony Smith speaks with Agrii’s Adam Simper, National Grass, Roots, and Environmental Seeds Manager, and Simon Hobbs, National Cover Crop, Environmental, and Wildflower Seeds Manager. They discuss the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and its impact beyond just financial payments.

What is the Latest SFI Update?

The SFI 2024 expanded offer closed in March, and DEFRA plans to introduce a revised scheme post-spending review, likely in July. However, new applications will not be available until 2026. For those already enrolled in the 2023 and 2024 schemes, valuable insights remain applicable.

How Many Farmers Adopted SFI in 2023 and 2024?

• Herbal leys (SAM3): 326,000 hectares in 2023, plus 47,100 hectares in 2024.
• Legumes on grassland (NUM2): 72,000 hectares in 2023, with 30,400 more added in 2024.
• Cover crops (SAM2): 214,000 hectares in 2023, with 27,000 hectares added in 2024.
• Companion cropping (IPM3): 57,000 hectares in 2023, rising to 30,000 hectares in 2024.
• Legume fallow (NOOM3): 92,000 hectares in 2023, with 9,300 hectares in the revised 2024 version.
• Wild bird seed (AHL2): 68,000 hectares in 2023, with 6,500 hectares added in 2024.

What Are the Key Lessons from 2023?

Many farmers enrolled in SFI without considering soil suitability. For example, SAM3 herbal leys do not thrive in wet, heavy soils, leading to establishment failures. Similarly, NOOM3 legume fallow struggles against blackgrass infestations, making site selection crucial.

SAM3 vs. CSAM3: What’s the Difference?

The main differences are in mixture composition and fertilisation rules:

• SAM3: Requires five grasses, three legumes, and five herbs, with no nitrogen restrictions.
• CSAM3: Requires one grass species, two legumes, and two herbs, but limits nitrogen applications to 40 kg/ha per year.

CSAM3’s nitrogen restriction makes it less attractive for dairy farms but viable for beef and sheep operations.

Is NUM2 a Better Alternative?

NUM2 (legumes in improved grassland) offers a lower payment (£102/ha) but has no nitrogen restrictions, making it more suitable for high-yield dairy farms.

What’s New in 2024: Summer Cover Crops

The expanded SFI scheme now includes summer cover crops at £163/ha, which must be established between June and August. However, late harvests in northern regions may pose challenges for successful establishment.

How Can Farmers Optimise Seed Mixtures?

Agrii has developed various seed mixtures for different farm needs:

• Cutting mixtures: Exclude chicory to prevent silage fermentation issues.
• No red clover versions: Avoids bloating in cattle and fertility issues in breeding ewes.
• Overseeding mixtures: Helps refresh pastures without full reseeding.
  
  

How Can Farmers Succeed with SFI?

1. Choose schemes that align with farm management practices.
2. Select seed mixtures suited to land and livestock needs.
3. Consult agronomists for the best establishment strategies.
4. Prepare a fine, firm seedbed to support small-seeded crops.