SUMMARY. A blog article about syntropic agroforestry. What is it, where does it come from and why is it an interesting method?
Whas ist syntropic agroforestry?
Syntropic agroforestry is a regenerative agricultural method that draws on the principles of natural forest ecosystems. This method was largely developed by the Swiss agronomist Ernst Götsch, who perfected it in Brazil from the 1980s onwards. His work is based on observation of nature and the natural cycles of healthy ecosystems. In contrast to conventional agricultural methods and similar to food forests, syntropic agroforestry focuses on biodiversity, soil structure and the targeted promotion of natural cycles. Core principles include:
- The combination of trees, shrubs and agricultural crops in dense plantings;
- Harnessing natural succession to improve soil fertility;
- Targeted pruning and mulching (‘chop & drop’) to promote growth impulses, humus formation and water storage;
- No synthetic fertilisers or pesticides.
The principles of succession
A central concept in syntropic agroforestry is succession – the natural process of ecological development of ecosystems over time. This can be divided into different stages:
- Pioneer phase: fast-growing plants and trees prepare the ground for subsequent generations. They improve the soil structure and provide the first humus build-up.
- Transition phase: Medium-term plant species, such as pioneer trees, fruit trees or shrubs, gradually take over as the pioneer species die or are pruned back.
- Climax phase: Long-term dominant, long-lived trees and shrubs reach their full size and ensure a stable, self-regulating ecosystem.
In syntropic agroforestry, this natural process is deliberately controlled and accelerated to efficiently utilise the advantages of succession. Through targeted planting, pruning and soil management, soil fertility can be increased and long-term yields secured.
Why is mulching good for the soil?
Mulching is an essential technique in syntropic agroforestry and plays a key role in soil improvement. It involves using cut plant parts, such as leaves, branches and crop residues, as organic ground cover. The advantages of mulching are manifold:
- Protection of the soil: A mulch layer protects the soil from direct sunlight, reduces erosion and prevents drying out;
- Nutrient supply: the slow decomposition of organic material continuously builds up humus, which serves as a nutrient source for plants;
- Stimulation of soil biology: mulch improves soil life by providing food for microorganisms, worms and fungi. These in turn contribute to soil fertility;
- Weed suppression: the ground cover inhibits the growth of unwanted plants, reducing the need for maintenance;
- Water storage: a mulch layer reduces evaporation and helps to retain moisture in the soil – a crucial advantage, especially in dry regions.
Why does it make sense to work with this method?
Syntropic agroforestry differs from other agroforestry methods primarily in its consistently regenerative approach. While ‘classic’ agroforestry systems often aim to combine trees and fields for erosion control or CO2 storage, syntropic agroforestry goes further: it creates a self-regulating ecosystem that is both productive and resilient in the long term. The advantages of this method are:
- Long-term high productivity with less input of external resources;
- Higher soil fertility through continuous humus formation,
- Improved water holding capacity and reduced risk of erosion;
- Increased biodiversity, which keeps pests and diseases in check in a natural way;
- Adaptability to different climate and soil conditions.
Challenges of syntropic agroforestry
Despite the many advantages, there are also challenges that need to be considered when implementing this method:
- In-depth knowledge: very good knowledge of plants, seeds, succession and more;
- High workload: syntropic agroforestry requires intensive planning, frequent maintenance and manual intervention such as regular cutting and mulching. This can be particularly labour-intensive in the initial phase;
- Complexity of planning: The right combination of plants that are coordinated with each other and promote each other requires in-depth knowledge of botany and ecological processes;
- Adaptation to temperate climates: In Europe, the concept has to be adapted to longer winters and slower growth cycles, which present additional challenges;
- Limited machine availability: the dense planting and diverse structure of the system makes it difficult to use conventional agricultural machinery, meaning that more manual labour is required.
What climate zones is the syntropic agroforestry system suitable for?
The method was originally developed for tropical and subtropical climate zones, where growth rates are particularly high and natural succession processes occur faster. But it can also be successfully applied in temperate zones, including Western Europe.
Does it also make sense to use this method in Western Europe?
Yes, under certain conditions, the syntropic agroforestry can also be a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture in this climate zone. This method can be particularly advantageous in the long term in regions with degraded soils, water scarcity or strong climate change.
Important framework conditions for successful implementation in Western Europe:
- Adaptation of the plant selection to temperate climate conditions;
- Modified succession strategies adapted to slower growth cycles;
- Adapted cutting and mulching methods for cooler temperatures;
- Good planning for the integration of seasonal cycles into planting strategies.
Examples of syntropic agroforestry in Europe
Meanwhile, there are some exciting projects in Europe that deal with syntropic agroforestry, such as DenFoodBosch (Netherlands), Hof (V)Erde (Germany), Gut & Bösel (Germany) and
In our learning centre Forest Garden Rehfelde (Germany), 2 syntropic rows have been planted. Further rows will be planted in the next workshops under the motto ‘learning together’.
Syntropic agroforestry is also an evaluated method in the African projects. Workshops are held here every year as well. You can join in too!
Conclusion
Syntropic agroforestry offers a promising alternative to conventional agriculture. Despite the high labour input and long-term investment, it can lead to fertile soils, stable ecosystems and sustainable yields in the long term. With targeted adaptation to European conditions, this method could make a valuable contribution to organic farming and climate adaptation.
Here is the link to ‘Life in Syntropy’, the short film by Agenda Gotsch, which was specially produced for presentation at the COP21 in Paris. This film presents some of the most remarkable experiences in syntropic agriculture.
And there is a very nice illustrated manual on agroforestry from Brazil, click here.
