Horti-pastoral system

Horti-pastoral system is defined as one of the agroforestry systems which involves the integration of fruit trees with pasture. When a fruit tree is replaced with a top-fed tree, it is called a silvi-pastoral system. The tree species for this system may be chosen so that they are complementary or less competitive for understorey plants. In a horti-pastoral system, fruit trees like mango, guava, and custard apple are planted and seeds of Stylosanthus hamata and Cenchrus ciliaris are broadcasted one year later to ensure the good establishment of fruit trees. In a continuous grazing system, a custard apple is an ideal option as livestock does not browse it and it is hardy too. Fruit trees like ber will go very well in combination with pasture, as the foliage is very nutritious.