Alley cropping is an ancient practice, defined by the USDA as “the planting of rows of trees and/or shrubs to create alleys within which agricultural or horticultural crops are produced.” Like other agroforestry systems, alley cropping can diversify farm income streams while also helping conserve natural resources, by reducing soil erosion and replenishing organic matter.
Weavers Way Farms, part of the member-based Weavers Way Co-op, has had a long-term goal for revamping the orchard at Henry Got Crops, one of their two urban farm sites. Pasa connected them with agroforestry consultants at Interlace Commons as part of our work with the Natural Resources Conservation Service to pilot alley cropping systems in Pennsylvania. Weavers Way’s design will help them get more out of each acre by incorporating popular perennial vegetable and flower crops in the alleys between their existing trees and expanding the orchard diversity with additional fruit, nut, and ornamental tree varieties. Earlier this spring farm managers, student volunteers, and forestry professionals planted a variety of new products on the site—from kiwis and asparagus to garlic and hazelnuts. Come check out the results!
Farm Manager Nina Berryman and Interlace Commons consultant Meghan Giroux will share insights about the site-specific considerations that went into the design process and discuss how alley cropping could help you get more out of your field or orchard.
Lunch will be provided.
This project is supported by a USDA Conservation Innovation Grant and funding from the Philadelphia Committee of the Garden Club of America.
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