agroforestry

American  

[ag-roh-fawr-uh-stree, ‑-for-] / ˌæg roʊˈfɔr ə stri, ‑ˈfɒr- /

noun

1. a method and system of land management involving the simultaneous cultivation of farm crops and trees; agriculture incorporating the growing of trees.

   Agroforestry ensures a continuous food supply, some continuous economic return, and the avoidance of soil degradation.

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agroforestry British  

/ ˌæɡrəʊˈfɒrɪstrɪ /

noun

1. a method of farming integrating herbaceous and tree crops

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agroforestry Scientific  

/ ăg′rō-fôr′ĭ-strē /

1. A system of land use in which harvestable trees or shrubs are grown among or around crops or on pastureland, as a means of preserving or enhancing the productivity of the land.

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Other Word Forms

• agroforester
  noun

Etymology

Origin of agroforestry

1930–35; agro- ( def. ) + forestry ( def. )

Explanation

When trees are planted on farms alongside food crops, it's called agroforestry. Farmers often use agroforestry to grow trees that can be used for fuel or lumber. Agroforestry is from the Greek agros, "field," and a Latin root meaning "woods." This agricultural system, sometimes called "forest farming," involves managing farmed land in a way that mixes pasture, crops, trees, and shrubs. Planting so diversely tends to be good for the soil and water quality, and it supports more wildlife and pollinating insects too. Integrating apple trees, lavender plants, dairy goats, and pine trees on one farm would be an example of agroforestry.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

agroforestry

FAO has also introduced agroforestry -- the combination of trees and crops on the same plot -- to diversify their income.

From Barron's ● Jul. 1, 2026

Professor John Bosco Okullo, a leading agroforestry expert from Uganda's Makerere University who has been studying shea nut trees for more than two decades, also blames years of widespread insecurity for the problems.

From BBC ● May 1, 2025

The scientists found very different results depending on the region, and therefore emphasise the importance of tailoring agroforestry management strategies according to the region.

From Science Daily ● May 21, 2024

A nonprofit he founded, Restor, connects community projects, such as an agroforestry farm in Ethiopia, with potential supporters.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 13, 2023

Indigenous communities as well possess a profound knowledge of sustainable agroforestry practices and collaborating with these communities can provide essential teachings into more sustainable food production and responsible land and water management.

From Salon ● Sep. 25, 2023