METHODS

 

Direct sowing

The "short-term" trees used in Vi Agroforestry are sown directly where the farmer wants them. There is no need to cultivate them in nurseries first. They are sown in lines across the contours in crop fields, along boundaries or scattered over the farm. They stop erosion, marks the boundaries and acts as windbreaks. And they produce fuel-wood and/or fodder within 1-2 years. Many of the "long-term" trees can also be sown directly. They are sown in intervals within the lines of "short-term" trees or just scattered on the farm or on boundaries.

 

Home nurseries and seeds

Some "long-term" trees are difficult to establish through direct sowing. The farmers are advised and taught to establish their own small nurseries. Seedlings are then ready to be planted when the rain comes. Seeds for both home nurseries and direct sowing are given to farmers by our extensionist for a limited period of time. Farmers are trained by the extensionists to collect and use their own seeds. This is part of the knowledge we want to leave behind, part of the sustainability

 

Tree management

Trees need to be managed to minimise competition with crops. Pruning of branches reduces the shading effect on crops. Pruning of roots reduces the competition for nutrients and water. Trees also need management for optimal production of whatever product they are planted for, fuel-wood, fodder, fruit, posts or timber. By timing tree management the farmer can decide when to reduce shade, when to apply nutrients to the crops through tree prunings etc. Trees in agroforestry systems are not static; they are constantly used, managed and re-planted.

 

Crop and water management

Agroforestry is not just tree-planting. Agroforestry is an active and intentional mix of trees and agricultural crops. It is combinations and management of all components. Our extensionists gives farmers advise on how to space their agricultural crops and on how to combine them with trees. They also advise on water harvesting and on fodder combinations to maximise production of crops, trees and animals.

 

Land rehabilitation

In some areas the soil and landscape is so degraded by erosion, that cultivation of agricultural crops isn´t possible. These areas are also mostly dry. Raring large herds of livestock are often the dominant lifestyle in these areas. Large herds of livestock increase erosion and large areas enter into a vicious circle. Here we advise farmers/pastoralists to protect areas and to plant trees within these enclosures to increase production of grasses and crops. Water harvesting is essential to enable grasses, crops and trees to grow under these very harsh conditions.
 

Print