“Edible trees” (native and nonnative trees that produce fruits, nuts, seeds and pods that suit human tastes) are key elements of Southwest US agroforestry sites. Given projections of increased heat and drought in coming years, it’s important to select appropriate trees for the elevation and microclimate conditions of a site. Carefully planting, watering, and caring for these trees supports their longevity and productivity. Website resources have recently been developed to help you select and support trees. Materials at the LEAF (Linking Edible Arizona Forests) Network website describe how to plant, water, care for and harvest a broad range of edible trees. The searchable Arizona Edible Tree Directory provides detailed information on the characteristics and management of 55 edible trees and 13 edible shrubs that grow in Arizona and throughout the southwest. Other useful websites profile 65 climate-resilient native southwestern tree species including “edible” species, and insect and disease threats to trees in the southwest.
Ann Audrey is an Environmental Consultant and founded the Linking Edible Arizona Forests (LEAF) Network. She has a MS Hydrology and Water Resources, MS Nutritional Biochemistry, University of Arizona. She edited the 350-page American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (ARCSA) Rainwater Harvesting Manual, which is used throughout the U.S. to train rainwater harvesting professionals. She just completed the Tucson Community Forest Action Plan, to guide the planting of one million trees in Tucson by 2030. Recent projects include developing guidance on the use native and cultivated fruit and nut trees in Arizona, developing best practices to increase the use of native trees in Tucson and compiling information on climate resilient native trees for Arizona and New Mexico.
3 окт 2024
