Management of docks (Rumex obtusifolius) through enhanced soil health

Summary

In this Farm Net Zero field lab, nine Cornish farmers are trialling different ways of managing their grassland to reduce docks without using herbicides.

The triallists will be applying calcium and carrying out different mechanical interventions to reduce soil compaction. 

The idea came from the work of James Barrett of Tremadart Barton who demonstrated how he managed docks without agrochemicals. James demonstrated his technique as part of a Farm Net Zero event in 2023.

This field lab is funded through the Community Lottery Funded Farm Net Zero Project.

Benefits

Docks are perennial weeds that often grow in grassland. They can spread quickly as they produce a huge quantity of seed, and can quickly establish themselves thanks to their deep-rooted tap root. 

Docks are thought to be particularly prevalent in compacted soil conditions and in soils which are low in calcium. 

It is hoped that by improving soil structure and chemistry in grassland farmers can reduce their dock burden without the use of herbicides.

Trial design

Each farm will dedicate one field to the trial.

Step 1: The researcher will assess the depth and severity of soil compaction in the trial fields, and recommend the appropriate mechanical intervention (eg subsoiler / slitter).   Soil assessments will determine soil calcium levels and pH.

Step 2: The trial field will be split into 4 areas: 1) No intervention (control); 2) Calcium only; 3) Mechanical intervention only; and 4) Calcium and mechanical intervention.

Step 3: The farmers will graze/cut the field according to standard management. Mid season a foliar sample of the grassland will be taken from the area with calcium and the area without calcium. If deficiencies are evident, further calcium application will be carried out.

Step 4: At the end of the season, assessment of dock density will be assessed, and soil structure.