What Is a Midfield Planting Strip?
A midfield planting strip is a line of trees, bushes, and flowering plants planted within or around your fields, especially in underused or low-yield areas. These strips help nature – and your farm – by improving soil, supporting pollinators, and protecting crops from wind or erosion.
WHY USE MIDFIELD STRIPS? THEY CAN HELP YOU…
- Improve soil health
- Attract pollinators (bees, butterflies)
- Provide habitat for birds and beneficial insects
- Reduce wind and water erosion
- Use land that’s hard to farm efficiently
- Qualify for agri-environment payments (check local programs)
- Retain water in soil
- Improve the quality of nearby crops
HOW TO START – STEP BY STEP
- Width: 3–10 meters
- Length: As much as the field allows
- Shape: Along the fields, but avoid blocking machinery access
Trees, bushes, flowers – pay attention to use native species. Leave plants that already occur on this spot.
Mix deep-rooted and shallow-rooted species for healthier soil.
- Follow spacing guidelines (e.g., 1–2 meters for bushes, 3–5 meters for trees)
- Water after planting
- Replant any failed plants
- Keep checking for pests
- Use local/native species—they grow better and support local wildlife
- Talk to agricultural advisors about financial support
- Add signs: “Pollinator Habitat” or “Wildlife Strip” to raise awareness
