Scientists at the Arborétum Mlyňany are studying the benefits of agroforestry, which combines various plants and crops, resulting in higher yields and environmental benefits compared to traditional monoculture methods.
At the Arborétum Mlyňany, researchers are conducting experiments to explore the advantages of agroforestry. This innovative method combines species such as acacia and lavender with agricultural crops, showcasing a significant positive impact on biodiversity, carbon retention, and product quality. Unlike traditional farming practices that often focus on monoculture, which is easier to manage but detrimental in the long run, agroforestry offers a more sustainable alternative.
Scientist Peter Ferus from the Department of Dendrobiology at the Institute of Ecology notes that agroforestry reduces the area of arable land needed while increasing economic benefits. In their experiments, they found that while the arable land required is decreased by about a quarter, the overall economic yield can be 1.2 to 1.4 times greater than that of single-crop farming on pure arable land. This demonstrates the potential for agroforestry to provide both higher economic returns and improved agricultural sustainability.
The findings from this research could have significant implications for the agricultural sector, especially in the context of addressing climate change and promoting biodiversity. By encouraging practices that integrate multiple species in farming systems, there is a greater opportunity to enhance ecosystem services, improve soil health, and potentially counteract some of the environmental challenges faced by conventional agricultural practices.
