Webinar kruidenrijk grasland 25 maart 2026

In this webinar, expert Wim Schippers discusses herb-rich grassland and farming within healthy boundaries. He takes us through the different forms of grassland, from permanent grassland to extensive herb-rich grassland. Is it financially feasible for dairy farmers to introduce more biodiversity to their land? Schippers has also created a two-page summary, which can be read here: https://kruidenrijk.1001ha.nl/wp-cont... Discount on herb-rich grassland Farmers who wish to start with herb-rich grassland can receive a discount on the purchase of seeds via https://kruidenrijk.1001ha.nl Questions answered by Wim Schippers During the webinar, it was not possible to answer all of the participants' questions. Below, Schippers provides answers to the questions asked in text. Fertilizing with slurry for natural soil: would you recommend this? During the development phase of native herb-rich grassland, we initially refrain from fertilizing (in combination with mowing twice, possibly followed by subsequent grazing). If the history involves large quantities of slurry and artificial fertilizer (infusion fertilization), then a (single) application of solid manure is sensible to activate soil life (not necessary if subsequent grazing is practiced). Once you have developed herb-rich grassland (after 4 to 6 years), you apply a limited fertilizer application of 50 kg N/ha per year (sandy soil) or every two years to maintain it. Applying solid manure is preferred. However, slurry is also an option, provided it is applied above ground in a small quantity (10 m³/ha) after the first mowing. This way, we do not eliminate soil life and do not cut through herbs (roots). Please note: when combining mowing and grazing, fertilizer application can be omitted. On peat soil, it seems complicated to achieve good extensive herb-richness. Can you explain that? On peat soil, increased mineralization occurs in the spring when there is a certain degree of drainage. This stimulates grass growth and creates increased competitive pressure for the herbs. Therefore, on peat soil, it is especially important to mow on time to ensure smooth development towards herb-rich grassland. Naturally, in meadow bird areas, we take into account the potential presence of meadow birds in the relevant plot. Bear in mind that Type 2 grassland (grass mix-plus) is already sufficiently herb-rich for suitable chick pasture. Timely pre-grazing then has a positive effect on meadow bird opportunities as well as grassland development. Type 3 (grass-herb mix) is a welcome addition to this for the late chick phase, even in somewhat less moist conditions. Developing native herb-rich grassland on peat thus proves to be quite possible, provided we apply appropriate development management. Is a calculation tool for ‘Farmers within healthy boundaries’ available? Not yet. In 2025, based on the concept ‘Farmers within healthy boundaries’ (Schippers), a solid mathematical model (spreadsheet) was developed by Rijneveld, commissioned by the Part-Ner foundation. Subsequently, the model was used to calculate the transition consequences for a number of interested farmers in the provinces of Overijssel and South Holland. Following informal discussions, two-thirds of the farmers want to seriously proceed with it. Phase 2 of the project has now started in Overijssel (plan of action, safeguarding, and farm support). At the request of LVVN, the model is currently being validated (spring 2026) by agricultural economists from Wageningen. Recently, a foundation called ‘Farmers within healthy boundaries’ was established, within which active fundraising will take place, initially to finance calculations and informal discussions. Several farm advisors will also be trained. A derivative calculation tool is expected to become available at some point. How do you ensure a good harvest and preservation of native herb-rich grassland that is not grazed? Herb-rich grass harvested under favorable conditions promotes health. Well-pressed/baled hay is preferred, but optimal hay harvesting is not always possible. Some loss of quality is unavoidable when ensiling. Is herb-rich grassland possible in an orchard without the trees receiving insufficient nutrients? If the trees are not planted too close together (sufficient light between the trees), a form of herb-rich grassland is certainly possible. The trees themselves are cared for as needed within the tree canopy (compost/manure). If animals are grazing in the orchard, it is difficult to transition from a species-poor turf to herb-rich grassland. Due to pasture manure, development then remains stuck between grassland types 1 and 2 (grass mix and grass mix-plus). Once it is herb-rich (primarily between the trees), grazing according to carrying capacity is fine, and the herb richness can be preserved.