Convertible husbandry, also known as alternate husbandry or up-and-down husbandry, is a method of farming whereby strips of arable farmland were temporarily converted into grass pasture, known as leys. These remained under grass for up to 10 years before being ploughed under again, while some eventually became permanent pasturage.[1] It was a process used during the 16th century through the 19th century by "which a higher proportion of land was used to support increasing numbers of livestock in many parts of England."[2] Its adoption was an important component of the British Agricultural Revolution.[3]
Ley farming, a similar system of growing fodder on fallow plots of arable land, remains in use today.[4]
- ^ "Convertible husbandry". Oxford Reference. Oxford University Press. 2019. Retrieved 27 September 2019.
- ^ Broad, John, "Alternate Husbandry and Permanent Pasture in the Midlands, 1650 – 1800", The Agricultural History Review, Vol. 28, No. 2, pg 77-78, British Agricultural Society; 1980.
- ^ Kerridge, Eric, The Agricultural Revolution, Taylor and Francis US; 1967, pg 40. ASIN B0000CNP4H
- ^ Ikande, Mary (2018). "Ley farming advantages and disadvantages". Ask Legit. Legit (Nigeria). Retrieved 24 September 2019.
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