The Effect of Production Systems on Performance and Yield of Selected Plantation Crops in Homestead Agroforestry Practices

This study investigates the impact of production systems on the growth, yield, and soil characteristics of avocado and citrus trees within homestead agroforestry practices in Dikicha, Habro woreda, Ethiopia. Conducted from June 2019, the research employed a replicated block design with control plots (pure stands of avocado and citrus) and treatment plots (Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice). Each plot contained nine fruit tree seedlings, replicated across three homesteads. Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice plots integrated coffee alongside the fruit trees. Tree growth was monitored by measuring height and diameter at breast height every six months. Soil samples were collected at three depths (0–20 cm, 20–40 cm, and 40–60 cm) and analyzed for pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and cation exchange capacity. Agronomic data, including yields of other crops, were recorded annually. Results showed that tree growth in Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice plots significantly exceeded pure stands after 42 months for avocado and 36 months for citrus, likely due to competition for sunlight. While pure stands had higher yields for avocado and citrus, Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice plots demonstrated more diverse and higher overall farm outputs, including coffee, maize, potato, and papaya. Soil analyses revealed no significant differences in most soil parameters between the two systems. The study implies that Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice despite lower individual fruit yields, enhances overall farm productivity and diversity, making it a viable option for sustainable agricultural practices in the region.