Working with the farm system

The success of an agroforestry project depends on how well it fits existing operations. Row spacing, headlands, gateways, turning areas, grazing plans, machinery widths and access for maintenance all affect establishment. These practical details are considered before work begins so that the installed system supports rather than obstructs the farm.

LeftHand does not need to replace the farm adviser or agroforestry designer. We can work directly with the farmer on straightforward establishment or alongside an agronomist, forester, ecologist or designer who retains responsibility for the overall system and planting plan.

Planting, protection and early care

Young trees in farmed landscapes often face pressure from livestock, deer, rabbits, competing vegetation and exposed conditions. We can install suitable stakes, guards and protection as part of planting, while planning how those materials will be inspected and maintained.

Early aftercare can include vegetation control, guard and stake checks, formative pruning and replacement of failed plants. Keeping establishment and early maintenance connected gives the system a much better chance of reaching the productive stage for which it was designed.

Who we work with

We work with farms, estates, smallholdings, agroforestry designers, agronomists, foresters and environmental advisers. Projects may include silvoarable rows, silvopasture, shelterbelts, productive hedgerows, orchards, in-field trees and mixed perennial systems.