Rougham Estate Farms
Encompassing over 2,700 acres of arable land and 84 hectares of permanent pasture, the Farm stands as a beacon of sustainable agriculture in Suffolk.
Farming in Suffolk
The farm is one of the core enterprises on the Estate and we take our role of caring for the environment very seriously, farming in the most sustainable way we can to protect our soils and environment.
Arable Farming
The diverse soil types, ranging from sandy to clay, influence unique cropping rotations across the Estate. Crops include Rye, Sugar Beet, Spring Barley, Wheat, Malting Barley, Oilseed Rape. The Estate’s dedicated team strives to produce high-quality crops while adhering to environmentally sustainable practices.
We have worked diligently for over a decade to enhance soil health and environmental well-being, including practices such as reduced cultivations, organic matter application, cover cropping, and prudent pesticide use. These efforts have yielded remarkable results, including improved water retention, ease of cultivation and increased soil fertility.
Pasture
The 84 hectares of pasture are all included within our Countryside Stewardship Scheme and are managed as a low input system to encourage biodiversity. The pasture is rented out for sheep, cattle and horse grazing.
We embrace a low-input approach and limit the amount of fertiliser that is applied to the grass to allow wild flowers and grasses to seed, contributing to a flourishing ecosystem.
Conservation
Environmental stewardship is a cornerstone of Rougham Estate’s ethos, extending to its vast woodland covering 20% of the total area. Ancient woodlands, veteran trees and traditional hedgerows showcase the Estate’s commitment to biodiversity.
Engaging in government schemes and advised by Suffolk Wildlife Trust, the Estate regenerates hazel coppice, providing habitats for wildlife like dormice, rare bats and butterflies and fostering native flora.
The Rougham Post
Latest from the farm
