More efficient use of inputs in cropping systems using trees

Abstract

A representative example of homegardens in Sumatra, Indonesia, is given by Michon and Mary (1990). Families which cannot produce enough rice even for their own needs depend on tree gardens for survival and use them intensively for subsistence as well as monetary needs. Subsistence production is increased through introduction of vegetable crops in clear places under the tree canopy. Moreover, wild vegetables (ferns and small tree species) are intensively favored and regularly collected both for home consumption and for sale in village markets. As to use of inputs, such homegardens have largely a closed forest like ecology (Michon and Mary 1990; see also Box III.5.5). See also Jordan (1985) and Nair (1993) for basics. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.