Agroforestry

Combining trees with crops or livestock is more productive, better for wildlife and healthier for the planet, but only 3% of the UK’s farmland currently practices agroforestry.

Find out how we’re working with farmers to achieve our goal of over half of UK farms having agroforestry systems in place by 2030.

What is agroforestry?

Agroforestry is the practice of combining agricultural crops or livestock with trees and shrubs. It is a great example of agroecology in action.

Trees play an important role in every part of a farm. If farmers carefully plan trees on farms, they can help to regulate growing conditions for crops and increase biodiversity.

Agroforestry provides healthier soil, higher yields and vital homes for wildlife. 

What are the benefits?

Agroforestry has multiple benefits. 

Research has revealed that it can:

• Enhance farm productivity
• Increase wildlife
• Improve soil health and animal welfare
• Manage water flow
• Contribute to climate change mitigation

Agroforestry in action

Find out how seven farmers are teaming up with scientists to research the benefits of agroforestry in our latest Field Lab.