Management of nitrogen fixing trees in agroforestry systems for fodder production

The interspaces in a horticultural system can be utilized for the production of food, fodder, and vegetables during the initial 5-6 years. In addition, there is scope for the introduction of multipurpose trees, preferably nitrogen fixing trees (NFTs) into the system. This was investigated in a five-year study on an agri-silvi-horticultural system established in 1988; Leucaena leucocephala (leucaena) was introduced in between the fruit trees the following year. It was repeatedly coppiced for fodder and fuel-wood. Average forage production of leucaena during 1990-94 was highest in the system with Punica granatum followed by that of citrus and Psidium guajava; the lowest was in Zizyphus mauritiana. When agricultural crops were also included in the interspaces, forage production of leucaena was reduced. Leucaena forage yield increased with increasing plant density. In addition to the forage yield, leucaena has other beneficial effects such as providing shade for fruit trees and enriching the soil.