SOH3

Establish a summer-sown multi-species cover crop using a mix of at least 4 species from two or more specified plant families. The crop must not be harvested for commercial use and must be maintained to protect the soil surface. Certain species are prohibited in the seed mix.

This action must be performed every year for its 3-year duration. If the start date is too late in the season, you have up to 12 months to begin. In the final year, it continues until the next main crop is sown or the action's end date.

The method for implementing this action is flexible, provided all mandatory requirements are met and the action is carried out in a way that is likely to achieve its stated aim.

You must keep evidence to show what you’ve done to complete this action, such as:

• field operations at a land parcel level and associated invoices, including details of the seed mix used
• photographs and other documentation

If it’s not clear that you’ve done this action in a way that could reasonably be expected to achieve its aim, we may ask for this evidence. You must supply the evidence if we ask for it.

Advice is provided on seed mix choices, establishment methods like drilling or broadcasting, and maintaining the cover crop for at least 8 weeks. It also suggests combining this action with no-till farming or organic practices to enhance soil health benefits.