Barley straw is an incredibly versatile resource that we produce right here at Lower Blakemere Farm. Not only is it fantastic for maintaining your pond by naturally helping to keep the water clean, but it also serves as bedding for our cattle during the colder months when they are in the cowshed. This is just the beginning of its journey.

Our approach to using barley straw is an example of circular farming and regenerative agriculture. In circular farming, every part of the production process is reused or recycled, forming a continuous cycle that reduces waste. Regenerative agriculture goes a step further by enhancing and restoring the health of the farm ecosystem. This approach helps improve soil fertility, increases biodiversity, and can even help combat climate change by capturing carbon in the soil.

Here's how it works on our farm: After harvesting the barley for seed—which is sent to merchants—we use the remaining straw to bed our cattle. Over the winter, we enrich this bedding in situ with LIVE Bokashi Bran or our liquid Mother Culture. The cattle play their part by treading down the straw and manure mixture, which we later compost and spread on our fields. This not only provides nutrients to grow the next crop but also completes a natural cycle that enhances the sustainability of our farming.

Cattle are an integral part of our farm’s ecosystem, especially when they are grass-fed. Contrary to popular belief, grass-fed cattle contribute far less methane compared to those in feedlots because their grazing patterns and diet promote healthier digestion. In fact they play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture by maintaining the health of grasslands and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. So, supporting grass-fed cattle farming not only helps in defending the reputation of cows but also contributes to a healthier planet.

Order Wiggly Barley Straw from our farm here https://www.wigglywigglers.co.uk/products/barley-straw-for-ponds