In longterm field plots Nafferton are investigating methods of improving sustainability in cereal production.

Organic fertilisers are being evaluated for productivity, quality and health in spelt and rye within:

  • Conventional background: mineral fertiliser, following 2-year grass/clover ley
  • Organic background: composted manure, following 3-year grass/clover ley
  • Autumn applications: composted manure, green-waste compost
  • Spring applications: cattle slurry, biogas digestate, composted FYM compared to mineral fertilisers
Experimental design
Experimental design
Nafferton factorial systems comparison trial
Experimental design

In its dairy herd, the scope for UK grown feeds to improve milk yield and quality under conventional and organic winter diets is being evaluated

The SIP at Nafferton is investigating using UK grown feeds to improve milk yield and quality (antioxidant & mineral content) under conventional and organic winter diets and to improved fatty acid profiles (milk, blood, feeds).

Performance is being compared under conventional and organic management systems, using feed (lipid) supplementation with rape seed and naked oats.

The impacts on milk quality (antioxidant and mineral content) and fatty acid profiles (milk, blood, feeds) are being assessed.

Cows
SIP table