Exploration of tree management options to manipulate tree and crop interaction trade-off using WaNuLCAS model

The transformation from degraded soils to agroforestry can benefit from the complementarities between the early stages of tree-based production systems and crop growth.

Farmers managing such transitions must make strategic decisions (multi-year) on the choice of tree species, the number of trees per hectare and spacing; and tactical decisions (shorter term) on the choice of intercrops, tree canopy pruning and/or treeroot pruning.

We used a simulation model to explore these choices: the Water, Nutrient and Light Capture in Agroforestry Systems (WaNuLCAS ) model (van Noordwijk and Lusiana 1999; van Noordwijk et al 2004). The study was conducted in Lampung, Sumatra, Indonesia.