The herbaceous component in temperate silvopastoral systems.

Abstract

AbstractThe aim of this chapter is to evaluate herbaceous strata development in silvopastoral systems in a western temperate Atlantic-influenced area in Europe. This is a more modern and less well-known system than other classic Mediterranean silvopastoral systems. Pasture production and quality depend on tree type, density, distribution and age. Interaction of responses of pasture and tree productivity to management factors are shown and they depend on soil type and climatic conditions, as well as on tree production aim. There are several different kinds of silvopastoral systems which can be adopted or are currently being used in Europe. In the Atlantic area, higher pasture and tree growth can be expected compared with in drier, Mediterranean areas. Hence it is important to evaluate the interaction between tree development and pasture production and its distribution and quality under different conditions in order to match the social, productive and environmental requirements for woodlands or forests in silvopastoral systems.