HORNBEAM, beech, goat willow and walnut are just some of the tree species best suited to planting on farmland, according to a new expert tree planting guide for farmers published this week.
The Tree Species Guide for UK Agroforestry Systems, which was developed by Forest Research in partnership with the University of Reading, provides information on 33 different species of trees and shrubs suitable for planting in UK agroforestry systems. This guide will help inform farmers’ tree species selections based on the individual needs and conditions of the farm.
Trees on agricultural land can offer a range of benefits, including protecting natural resources like soil, storing carbon, diversifying farm products with timber, fruits and nuts, and providing shade and shelter to livestock. Planting the right trees in the right place helps farms remain resilient to changing climate, diversifies the farm business and lessens exposure to fluctuating agricultural markets.
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Forestry Commission chief executive Richard Stanford said: "Food production and environmental goals are under increasing scrutiny and the effects of climate change are becoming apparent to us all. Agroforestry can offer improved productivity from livestock and crops and help to build resilience to climate change.
“This indispensable guide outlines which tree species are most suited to farmers’ needs and the conditions specific to their land.
“A wide variety of trees are suitable for a range of situations from livestock farming to arable; this guide will help farmers, land managers and foresters enjoy the whole host of benefits incorporating trees into farmland while maximising food production.”
Species highlighted in the guide include hornbeam trees, which are suitable for most farm types, have great longevity and can produce specialised timber.
Similarly, beech trees offer longevity and value for timber while also being suitable for upland farms and requiring little maintenance.
Other alternatives include walnut and black walnut trees which, in addition to producing nuts, offer benefits to livestock, goat willow trees have great productivity benefits such as biomass and tannins, and common and red alder trees, which are able to capture nitrogen for farmers to help improve soil health and, ultimately, forage grassland.
Every tree planted can absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Tom Breeze, senior research fellow in Ecological Economics at the University of Reading’s School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, said: "Farming with trees is a great way for farmers to meet environmental goals without compromising food production, but the barriers to entry can feel overwhelming.
“Drawing on years of research from the University of Reading, this guide aims to equip farmers with the practical knowledge and tools they need to get started.
“Our goal is to make farming with trees more accessible, increase awareness of its benefits, and spark a conversation about how agroforestry can transform agriculture in the UK."
There are a wide a range of grants available to farmers to support planting and maintaining trees on agricultural land.
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