The ability of the ‘Apple ring tree’ (Faidherbia albida) to fertilize fields and feed livestock is covered in a radio peace on Isla Earth, produced by California State University.

Described as a “Swiss Army knife-type story” or one thing that can do everything, the tree has increased yields of maize in some parts of Africa by close to 300 per cent. It fertilizes fields by transferring nitrogen from the air to the soil. The tree does not compete with crops for water and sunlight, and the leaves provide animal fodder.

The integration of trees with conservation agriculture practices is termed ‘Evergreen Agriculture’ and promoted by Dennis Garrity, Research Fellow with the World Agroforestry Centre.

In Niger, almost 12.4 million crop acres are planted together with Faidherbia.

Listen to the story: Evergreen Agriculture