Can trees help with farming profit?
THERE is scepticism among some farmers and landowners about planting trees because it means the land is no longer available for more profitable crops or livestock grazing and having tree cover can affect farm subsidy payments.
But increasingly agroforestry is seen as the answer, combining productive farming, particularly of livestock, with the growing of crops. Expanding or creating a game shoot on the farm is also an incentive for planting more trees, which give cover for game birds and add to the scenic interest of the landscape.
The Woodland Trust says agroforestry benefits nature, climate and farming but admits as an agricultural system it has yet to realise its full potential.
A recent academic report suggested sheep farmers should replace their animals on less productive upland sites with trees.
But the Woodland Trust recommends farmers rearing sheep and growing trees. It points out: “Well managed and carefully placed shelterbelts, hedgerows and in-field trees can boost flock performance, improve animal health and welfare and ultimately enhance farm profitability.
“The trees deliver all this through shade and shelter; browse for the animals; improved water carrying capacity of the land and better soil health.”
It is even possible with careful planning to combine fruit trees with cereal crops under what is called a
“silvoarable scheme.” One Cambridgeshire farmer has planted rows of fruit trees 24 metres apart and grows cereals in the gap between the fruit trees.
The Woodland Trust reports: “The trees are planted from north to south to minimise shading. Pollen and nectar and wildflower species are planted beneath them, providing havens for wildlife as well as attracting pollinators vital for farming.”
The Woodland Trust says: “Over 70% of the UK land area is farmed, so it’s essential that farming plays a role in helping tackle both the climate and nature emergencies.
“Agroforestry can be part of the solution while also supporting sustainable food production.”