What is Agroforestry?

Agroforestry is about combining trees with other crops in the farmed environment, traditionally this might have been orchards or wood pasture under-grazed by sheep. Or thick hedgerows providing shelter and forage for cattle. However, as these farming approaches have disappeared, a new style of agroforestry is emerging. Farmers are now testing the use of trees within arable fields to help boost production and diversify their business. Growing crops between rows of trees is known as silvo-arable agroforestry and bringing trees back into grass pasture is called silvo-pastoral agroforestry.

Why is it agroforestry good for Wildlife?

Nature loves diversity, so increasing the diversity of crops within a field is a big plus for wildlife. The impact of an agroforestry system for biodiversity, will depend on the types of trees that are introduced and how they are managed. At Kent Wildlife Trust we strongly believe in the mantra ‘right tree, right place’ so not all habitats will benefit from the introduction of trees. But when done well, bringing trees right into the fields, and not just keeping them on the edges, can create a more dynamic and three-dimensional environment for wildlife to thrive in.

Why could it be good for farmers?

Trees are deep rooted and can draw moisture up to the surface to support crops in periods of drought. They can shelter livestock reducing the impact of extreme weather and depending on the tree, provide a crop in their own right, diversifying the farmers income and reducing the risk of relying on just one commodity. The right trees can also be a fantastic contributor to carbon sequestration!

What are Kent Wildlife Trust doing about it?

Our Farmer Cluster Officer, Ellen Wilson, will be visiting Wakelyns Agroforestry Farm to find out more about the benefits of agroforestry. Together our farmer engagement team will be exploring how to support farmers in Kent to trial different combinations of trees and diversify their farms for more resilient businesses and thriving wildlife.