Recently, we have seen an increase in the vibrant yellow and orange wildflower, birdsfoot trefoil on the estate. This plant is excellent for soil health, as it ingests atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria.
This flower is also fantastic for livestock, as it is a high-protein forage crop that helps prevent bloating. Birdsfoot trefoil has a long flowering season, which makes it a reliable nectar source for honeybees and nectar bees.
This wildflower is an essential larval food for caterpillars of several butterfly species. Interestingly, we have seen a massive rise in this plant since grazing our cattle, which has opened gaps in the soil through their grazing habits.