Biodiverse Management of Perennial Flower Margins in Farmland: Meandering Mowing by ‘Three-Strip Management’ to Boost Pollinators and Beneficial Insects

Abstract

Intensive farming has caused a sharp decline in beneficial insects like pollinators (such as bees and butterflies) and natural predators of crop pests. One way to address this is by sowing flower margins on farmland, which can boost biodiversity and the numbers of beneficial insects for pollination and pest control. However, after installation, the success of these margins can vary based on how they are managed. In this study, we compared two mowing management methods: the new “three-strip management” method with variable, curved mowing lines and a traditional, regular phased mowing method using straight mowing lines. During the third year of application, we measured how each method affected insect diversity, floral diversity, and plant–pollinator interactions. Our results showed that three-strip management significantly increased the abundance and diversity of pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, and the abundance of natural enemies. Additionally, we found more plant species blooming at different periods of the year and a positive impact on multiple network properties of plant–pollinator visitations in the three-strip-managed margins. This study shows that new, nature-based management methods can enhance insect diversity, improve their beneficial function in the ecosystem, and contribute to overall farmland biodiversity.