Last week, two representatives from our project participated in a study tour organized by the Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket). The tour focused on practical measures that farmers can implement to enhance biodiversity on their land.
During the day, we visited three farms that demonstrated different approaches to supporting biodiversity in agricultural landscapes.
Locally Sourced Wildflower Seed Production
Our first visit was to a company specializing in wildflower seed production. The seeds are used in mixtures sold to farmers, municipalities, road authorities and other land managers for establishing flower-rich habitats.
A key topic was the quality of seed mixtures. Their ecological value can vary significantly depending on the proportion of native species and the balance between flowering plants and grasses. Choosing appropriate species is important to maximize benefits for pollinators and other wildlife.
To preserve local genetic diversity, the company collects seeds from wild populations of native flowers. These plants are then used for seed production for up to three consecutive years before new wild collections are made, reducing the risk of unintended genetic selection.
The visit also highlighted the importance of seed quality for long-term biodiversity outcomes. While some flower mixtures provide quick results, high-quality seed mixes based on native species can establish plant communities that continue to flower and regenerate over multiple years.
Establishing Hedgerows for Wildlife and Wind Protection
The second farm visit focused on newly established hedgerows. One had been planted for wind protection, while others were intended to provide habitat and shelter for wildlife and to limit the movement of certain game species into arable fields. The hedgerows included native species such as hazel, hawthorn and wild currant. Beyond providing cover, the choice of species can influence the availability of flowers, berries and other resources for wildlife.
The farmer had tested two establishment methods. One hedgerow was planted without protection, while another was surrounded by a fence. Although both were planted at approximately the same time, around one year ago, the difference in growth was striking. Browsing by wildlife had significantly reduced growth in the unfenced hedgerow, while the fenced hedgerow had established much more successfully. However, fencing requires a considerable investment of both time and money and will eventually need to be removed.
The discussion highlighted an interesting trade-off: while the unprotected hedgerow may face a greater risk of establishment failure, the plants that survive are likely to be particularly resilient and well adapted to local conditions.
The importance of early-flowering shrubs was also emphasized, as they can provide valuable food resources for pollinators emerging in early spring.
Flowering Fields and Habitat Creation for Pollinators
Our final visit showcased flowering fields established to support pollinators. The farmer had planted approximately two hectares of flowering species, including Lacy phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia) and Bugloss (Anchusa arvensis), both attractive to pollinating insects. These flowering fields are eligible for environmental support payments and have become increasingly popular in Sweden. Applications increased from approximately 13,500 hectares in 2025 to 26,000 hectares in 2026.
We also visited an impressive "insect hotel" created from a large tree that had fallen during a storm. The trunk, together with smaller trees, branches and woody vegetation, had been placed along the edge of a field to provide habitat for insects and other organisms associated with dead wood. It also provided shelter for birds and other wildlife.
In addition, the farmer had established sandy nesting sites for ground-nesting pollinators. Vegetation had begun to colonize some of these areas, reducing their suitability for nesting. Maintaining exposed sand, particularly on the warmer south-facing side, was therefore considered important to maximize their ecological value.
Key Takeaways
The study tour highlighted a range of practical biodiversity measures that are already being implemented on Swedish farms. From native wildflower seed production and hedgerow establishment to flowering fields and pollinator habitats, the visits demonstrated how biodiversity can be integrated into everyday farm management.
The examples provided valuable inspiration and insights for our continued work within the project.