Multiple benefits of trees

There are many species of trees the offer some, if not all, of the following benefits. It's rather surprising that, generally, people aren't more enthusiastic about planting trees. There are a number of obvious benefits:

  • Human food and animal fodder
  • Physical barrier
    • Shelter (wind and rain)
    • Shade
    • Living fences
  • Moisture
    • Raise humidity
    • Huge surface area captures mist and dew
    • Roots lift water towards the surface and improve soils ability to absorb water
  • Soil building and improvement
    • Leaf litter and pruning improves soil organic matter
    • Nitrogen (select species)
    • Concentrations of manure from shade seeking animals and birds
  • Soil stabilisation and erosion control
  • Aesthetics (colourful leaves, flowers etc.)
  • Cornerstone for biodiversity (habitat for insects, bees, birds...)
  • Wood for fuel and construction
  • Perennial (plant once)
The myth about tree & pasture incompatibility - photographic evidence

The myth about tree & pasture incompatibility - photographic evidence

I am passionate about trees and their numerous benefits so I frequently encounter this commonly held misconception when I try and encourage grass growers to consider incorporating trees on their farms. The argument goes something like this: "I can't plant trees in or around my pasture because they compete with grass for light, water and minerals, grass production would suffer".

This photo, taken a few hundred meters from my home on a conventional sheep and beef farm during the worst drought in decades is evidence that certain tree species can actually improve the performance of grass. If only people were as observant as they are quick to dismiss the value of trees in the landscape.
May 06, 2015
  trees  grass  drought 
olmec

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