Agroforestry Fruit Tree Nursery
Resource explained
This video from the Organic Growers Gathering in 2024 features Tom Adams talking about his 2.6 hectare (6.5 acre) organic fruit tree nursery in an agroforestry system near Oswestry, in Shropshire. Tom goes through how he set up the holding on permaculture and forest garden principles, with a range of trees (willows and broad-leafed trees) grown for short rotation coppicing, aiming to form a closed loop system providing ramial chipped wood to mulch the young fruit trees and pest and disease control services. In addition he is enterprise stacking with cut flowers and chamomile tea businesses sharing the space. He also runs courses and workshops.
Findings & recommendations
- A seven-year rotation is needed for apple trees to combat apple re-plant disease.
- Growing trees for coppicing provides a number of benefits including acting as windbreaks, wildlife corridors, increasing water infiltration and increasing soil carbon.
- Willow contains salicylic acid, which when chipped and applied as mulch leaches into the soil and provides protection from fungal diseases such as scab and canker.
- Ramial chipped wood (RCW) applied around the fruit tree rows after cultivation, planting and a couple of weed passes, holds weeds at bay and holds in moisture – applied at 7-8 cm depth it lasts for 2 years until the trees are sold.
- Using forest garden principles “the possibilities are endless” for combining perennials and fruits alongside and within the coppiced areas.
- “Diversity is key.” Green manures and wild flowers in addition to the range of tree species are great for wildlife and provide “a lot of joy.”
Summary provided by:
Phil SumptionEdited by:
Janie Caldbeck
Organisation(s):
- Organic Growers Gathering
Date:
19/01/2025Evidence:
Farmer experience
Copyright:
All Rights ReservedRelated theme:
Key Farming Practices:
- Silvohorticulture
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