Multifunctionality of temperate alley-cropping agroforestry outperforms open cropland and grassland

Abstract Intensively managed open croplands are highly productive but often have deleterious environmental impacts. Temperate agroforestry potentially improves ecosystem functions, although comprehensive analysis is lacking. Here, we measured primary data on 47 indicators of seven functions in and 16 four grasslands to assess how alley-cropping performs compared cropland grassland. Carbon sequestration, habitat for soil biological activity, wind erosion resistance improved ( P ≤ 0.03) whereas only carbon sequestration grassland < 0.01). In agroforestry, nutrient cycling, greenhouse gas abatement, water regulation did not improve, due customary high fertilization rates. Alley-cropping increased multifunctionality, croplands. To ameliorate the benefits more efficient use nutrients required. Financial incentives should focus conversion incorporate fertilizer management.