A comparison was made between agroforestry systems and an area in fallow (Capoeira) to identify vegetational and edaphic effects of an agroforestry system managed through natural succession (SAF) in the Rainforest Region South of Bahia, Brazil. The SAF agroforestry system was tested as a strategy for degraded soil recovery and as a sustainable production system with the potential of replacing present agricultural patterns. The main practices used in SAF implementation and management are: high biodiversity, high density, natural regeneration as part of the system, and selective cutting and pruning. Productive and biodiverse agroforestry systems can repair degraded soil, improving both soil fertility and biodiversity. 

It is very important to consider the structure of local natural ecosystems in designing agroforestry systems, and to choose species adapted to local conditions. Observations on indicator species help in understanding the phases of succession and in determining which associations are better for agroforestry. Plantings must be very biodiverse and dense, and management must respect the order of each species in succession and the ecophysiological necessity of each one. Then, selective cutting and pruning practices can be applied, based on natural processes like pests and disease, or branches broken by the wind, respecting ecosystem stratification and the dominant association. The SAF agroforestry system improved soil fertility by tapping nutrients deep within the soil profile and by increasing the activity of soil biota. The use of natural succession-based management practices makes agroforestry systems dynamic and promotes nutrient cycling, contributing to maintenance of ecosystem health.  

Use Renewable Resources

Successional agroforestry management enhances natural mechanisms of nutrient recycling on farm.

Minimize Toxics

This agroforestry system produces cacao without chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

Conserve Resources

Successional agroforestry systems conserve local biodiversity and soil nutrients.

Manage Ecological Relationships

By managing succession and respecting the ecophysiological requirements of each species, interaction among species and niche utilization efficiency are improved.

Adjust to Local Environments

Because these systems are based on mimicking local natural ecosystems, successional agroforestry systems are adapted to local environments.

Diversify

In this system, crops grow together with local plants, forming a highly biodiverse system. The use of different crops makes it possible to harvest different crops over the year, diversifying the seasonal timing of production.

Empower People

This system promotes independence of small farmers and values local knowledge.

Manage Whole Systems

Management of successional agroforestry systems involves managing entire landscapes.

Maximize Long-Term Benefits

Successional agroforestry improves soil fertility over the long-term by managing organic matter through pruning and by mobilizing nutrients deep within the soil. By making use of trees and other perennials, value is increased over time.

Value Health

Agroforestry systems provide a diversity of products with high nutritive value to support a healthy diet for farmers and consumers. Natural succession-based management helps to maintain ecosystem health. 

Please click here for Pictures & Charts of Successional Agroforestry Systems