In the African drylands trees/shrubs are often mixed with annual crops in the rangelands and the farmed fields. Combining woody and non-woody plants in mixtures modifies microclimatic factors such as wind speed, air and tissue temperatures, relative humid - ity and radiation, saturation deficit of under-storey crops and consequently affecting evaporation [208-210]. Therefore, compared to an open environment, the modified micro-climate under trees has reduced solar radiation, a more moderate temperature regime, higher humidity, lower rates of evapo-transpiration and higher soil moisture levels [211], affecting both crop growth and livestock performance. Table 6.4.1.1 summarizes the relative effect of tree crown under and away from the crown [212]. Soil temperature, wind speed, light intensity and soil evaporation are rela - tively lower under the crown than in the open while the other two parameters are higher
Publication year
2014
Authors
Bayala, J.; Iiyama M; Ong C K; Muthuri, C.W.
Language
English
Keywords
drylands, sustainability, regional variation, environmental management, trees
Geographic
Indonesia
