Higher plant diversity in grasslands can boost yields while reducing fertiliser use. Findings from a global network of 26 sites highlight the potential of multispecies swards for productive, climate-resilient farming.
Productive grasslands are widely used to supply forage for livestock, either in permanent grassland systems or as part of crop rotations. These swards are typically low in plant diversity.
Two common management approaches dominate. The first involves growing a single grass species, usually supported by high levels of chemical nitrogen fertiliser. The second uses a grass-legume mix, such as perennial ryegrass and white clover, which requires lower fertiliser inputs.