In temperate agroforestry systems trees are often integrated in the form of short-rotation coppices, linear structures which resemble hedgerows and are harvested regularly for energy production purposes. Between these tree rows which often consist of fast-growing species such as poplar, willow or locust, annual crops can be cultivated. Several recent studies have shown that the presence of trees in agricultural landscapes leads to a number of microclimatic alterations on adjacent crop alleys such as the reduction of wind speeds, reductions in the amount of solar radiation reaching the crop and changes in air temperature and humidity. Reduced wind speeds result in lower rates of soil erosion and also lessen the amount of evaporation from the soil. All these aspects may ultimately increase the availability of water for crops in agroforestry systems, which in turn can also have a positive effect on crop yields.  

Against this background, we investigate with high spatial and temporal resolution correlations between changes in microclimate, soil water availability for crops and crop yields in a short-rotation alley cropping system near Forst (Lausitz), which consists of two poplar clones intercropped with three different arable crops over two consecutive years. To do so, we installed weather stations at different distances from the tree row which continuously measure air temperature, air humidity, solar radiation, wind speed, precipitation and photosynthetically active radiation. Additionally, we measure different aspects of water availability, such as potential evaporation (according to Piché), soil water content, transpiration and water potential. Lastly, small-scale corn and straw yields of crops will be assessed at all measuring points at the end of each vegetation period.

More information can be found here.

Project Staff: apl. Prof. Dr. Dirk Freese, Marie Majaura, Robin Fröhlich

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