In the temperate zone, agroforestry systems come increasingly into focus as they offer
an approach for the production of fuelwood, thus matching the increasing demand for a
self-supply with bioenergy in rural decentralized areas. Because of the large area potential
of marginal land, research activities aimed at a reliable estimation of the minimum
productivity of fast–growing tree species under most unfavourable site conditions.
Two agroforestry systemswere established on reclaimed mine sites in NE-Germany (Lusatia)
and Central Germany (Helmstedt). The yield potential and the sustainability of yields
were studied for different clones of poplar (Populus spp.), willow (Salix viminalis L.), and black
locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), considering different rotation periods (3-, 6-, and 9-yearrotation)
and approaches of soil amelioration (mineral fertiliser, compost).
On both sites the highest yields ofwoody biomasswere found for R. pseudoacacia L. regardless
of rotation period and amelioration measures. On loamy substrates in the Helmstedt
mining district, all tree species and clones responded positively to soil amelioration measures.
In the agroforestry system in Lusatia, special emphasis was given to the interaction
between trees (R. pseudoacacia) and crops (Medicago sativa L.). Considering the land equivalent
ratio (LER), R. pseudoacacia hedgerows have practically no negative influence on yields
of M. sativa. Hence, with regard to an increasing demand for woody biomass, alley cropping
with R. pseudoacacia and crops such as M. sativa may provide a promising alternative for
future land use in the temperate zone.