This the second episode of a new series exploring agroforestry, in which we use the elements as a framework to deepen understanding and challenge assumptions around trees on farms. The overarching aim is to explore how trees on farms contribute to more than just individual functions, holding the ability to transform whole landscapes and ecosystems. This episode focuses on the element of 'fire.' Guest host Wallace Currie is joined by Northumberland-based farmer Tom Fairfax and "hedge geek" Megan Gimber from People's Trust for Endangered Species. They dive into the role of energy in agroforestry systems; from firewood and biomass to nutrient cycling and carbon flow. They chat passionately about how trees and hedgerows can play a major role in creating low-input, circular systems that support life above and below ground, providing lasting returns for the farm and farmer. Show notes: Find out more about the series here. Explore the Agricology Agroforestry Hub here. Explore these other useful resources: Hedgerow Masterclass with James Robinson and Megan Gimber and Productive Hedges.
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Agroforestry Through the Elements - Water
This is the first episode of a new series exploring agroforestry, in which we use the elements as a framework to deepen understanding and challenge assumptions around trees on farms. The overarching aim is to explore how trees on farms contribute to more than just individual functions, holding the ability to transform whole landscapes and ecosystems. 'Water' includes exploring how trees impact flood risk, rainfall, and soil moisture. Guest podcaster Wallace Currie is joined by Ben Raskin, Head of Agroforestry at the Soil Association and co-organiser of the Agroforestry Show, who brings a wealth of knowledge about using trees effectively to manage extremes of water in a changing climate. Colin Tosh, Senior Agroforestry Researcher at the Organic Research Centre talks about his work modelling agroforestry systems to understand how trees impact water on farms through their influence on rainfall interception, soil characteristics, and microclimates. Vicki Hird, a lady of many hats, including being Strategic Lead on Agriculture at The Wildlife Trusts, touches on the challenges of water pollution caused by agriculture and sewage companies and how agroforestry can help tackle these issues, and talks about her work with lowland peat soils. Find out more about the series here. Explore the Agricology Agroforestry Hub here.
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To Till or Not to Till - In Conversation with Jonathan Storkey
In the last episode of the series, plant ecologist Jonathan Storkey treats us to fascinating insights on biodiversity in production systems and soil microbial communities, emphasising how context is crucial when choosing your tillage approach. He shares his journey from birdwatching ecologist to leading weed scientist at Rothamsted Reseach, where he has been studying tillage and biodiversity interactions for over two decades. He dives into the concept of "functional biodiversity"- pollinators, predators, and microbes that support food production, and how tillage impacts those delicate systems. We explore the Rothamsted long-term systems trials, where contrasting tillage approaches across different soil types are revealing nuanced shifts in yield, weed pressure, soil carbon, and microbial succession. Jonathan explains how early-stage bacteria-dominated soils differ from more stable fungal systems, and how physical disturbance resets succession. He also explores glyphosate reliance (including glyphosate-resistant weeds), weed control trade-offs, IPM potential, and the resilience of different systems to extreme weather events.
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To Till or Not to Till - In Conversation with John Pawsey
In this episode with farmer John Pawsey, we talk about the role of tillage in organic systems, balancing weed and pest pressures, how regenerative overlaps with organic, and how diversity drives success. John shares his journey from conventional spraying to organic, mixed farming (over 25 years ago). He explains why he ploughs selectively (once or twice in a six-year rotation) and how organic farming pushes innovation through the limits of its standards. His approach is rooted in observation, adaptability, and profitability. We explore how he adjusts tillage depth based on weed type and the importance of bringing complexity into your rotation and not letting one problem dominate – in relation to weeds, pests and diseases. John reflects on reducing his sheep flock, soil health gains (now having up to 6% organic matter), and embracing Groundswell and regenerative ideas with an organic mindset. He describes a farming system built on context: some years min-till, others plough, all underpinned by leys, cover crops, and diversity in crops and drilling dates. His honesty about the learning curve, headspace shifts, and financial sustainability gives real-world clarity to the tillage debate.
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To Till or Not to Till - In Conversation with Julia Cooper
The third episode of the series welcomes the Organic Research Centre's Julia Cooper who shares her expertise as a soil scientist. We look at soil health from a scientific perspective, focusing on nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and the nuanced role of tillage across different soil types and farming systems. Julia explains how soil health is context-specific, emphasising the importance of balancing biology, water management, and soil structure, rather than seeking one-size-fits-all solutions. We dive into how tillage affects water retention, soil productivity and microbial life, and discuss trade-offs between conventional and reduced tillage, looking at how practices such as direct drilling and cover cropping interact with climate and soil type, rather than existing as binary choices. We also touch on glyphosate versus plough-use in regenerative and organic systems, with Julia advocating for pragmatic, context-led decisions. Her insights offer a roadmap for farmers to make informed, resilient choices suited to their own land and goals...
www.agricology.co.uk is a hub that explores moving towards farming systems that harness ecological processes & holistic approaches to help balance productive agriculture with enhancing the wider environment. In 2020, we chatted with some of the movers & shakers in the fields, labs & food supply chains; focusing on sustainable farming practices in 'Agroecology in focus' & speaking with innovating farmers 'In the field.' We returned in 2024 'In conversation with' an exciting line up of farmers, researchers, advisors & industry figures who set out to explore optimal carrying capacity; the practical, philosophical & pertinent. This was followed in 2025 by a diverse range of voices exploring the complex & often polarising topic of tillage - to till or not to till? Out now is our latest series 'Agroforestry Through the Elements.' Grounding each episode around the themes of water, fire, earth, air, and people offers a dynamic and exciting way to explore individual topics while emphasising the fundamentally interconnected nature of agroforestry systems. Enjoy!
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