Effects of scattered Faidherbia albida (Del. A. Chev) tree on yield and yield components of three Cereal crops in Central Ethiopia

Understanding tree-crop interaction is a key aspect in determining appropriate tree-crop combi nation and managements. However, little is known about the influence of tree crop interaction and tree management on crop productivity. The study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effects of Faidherbia albida on yield and yield components of three cereal crops: wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), maize (Zea mays L.) and teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) in Central Ethiopian farmers field at Silti District.Three independent experiments were conducted using randomized complete block design with five replications for each experiment. The treatments consist of five radial distances at: 1.5m, 3.5m, 5.5m and 12.5m and contorl (25 m far from tree trunk). The yield and yield components data were collected from four directions and then the average was taken for analysis using one way ANOVA and mean separation was done using LSD at 5% significance level. Results showed that yield and yield component of wheat and maize were higher under and near the tree canopies than far from canopies. In contrast teff yield and yield component increased with increasing distance from tree trunk. Plant height, number of tiller per plant, spike length, total aboveground biomass and grain yield were all significantly higher (P < 0.05) for maize and wheat associated with F. albida compared to outside the canopy. Whereas, results from teff showed lower yield and above ground biomass close to the tree trunk compared to outside the canopy. The tree also used for fencing, fuelwood, fodder, construction and income generation. Therefore, the present study clearly showed that compatibility of maize and wheat under F. albida land use system are better tree crop combination design not only to enhance cereal productivity but also other tree benefits to farmers, while teff is incompatible to grow under F. albida land use system. Further study is required for the detailed species physiological response of the studied crops to shade. Keywords: Agroforestry, F. albida, cereal crops, crop productivity, Ethiopia