Similar names: Alley farming (Nalaad tribe, The Philippines), intercropping, farming with shading trees

Alley cropping is a farming method where trees and shrubs are planted in rows, and crops are grown in the spaces between these rows. This technique helps reduce soil erosion by slowing down water runoff and allowing the soil to absorb more water. The trees protect crops from strong winds, provide habitats for wildlife, and attract pollinators like bees. Depending on the type of trees or shrubs planted, they can also provide extra benefits such as fodder for animals, food, firewood, or materials for mulching.

Farmers can start alley cropping on a small scale by planting hedgerows around their fields or farms. On larger farms, the distance between the rows can be increased to allow for the use of machinery. Common crops used in alley cropping include corn, soybeans, wheat, and potatoes, which can be combined with trees that produce valuable products like hardwood timber or nuts. This technique is flexible and can be adapted to meet the specific needs of any farm, making it a practical way to improve productivity and sustainability.

NOTE: This method works particularly well in humid and semi-humid regions but can also be successful in dry areas with careful planning. In drier regions, it is important to ensure that hedgerows do not compete with crops for soil moisture.