ALLEY CROPPING
WHAT IS ALLEY CROPPING?
Alley Cropping is an agroforestry system where food crops (such as vegetables or grains) are planted between rows of trees arranged in parallel lines. This system combines short-term yields (e.g., vegetables, tubers) with long-term yields (e.g., fruit trees, timber).
SUITABLE TREE SPECIES FOR ROWS
TROPICAL FRUIT TREES:
Leguminous & Soil-Improving Trees (optional):
Intercrops (Between Tree Rows):
BENEFITS
- IMPROVES SOIL FERTILITY : Fallen tree leaves act as natural compost.
- REDUCES EROSION & FLOODING: Tree roots help reinforce soil structure.
- ENHANCES BIODIVERSITY: Attracts beneficial insects & controls pests naturally.
- MULTIPLE INCOME STREAMS: Trees + Intercrops = Sustainable returns.
SUITABLE FOR:
- Small-scale farmers
- Rural communities
- Urban gardens
- Agro-tourism & sustainable farm projects