Agroforestry continues to gain momentum across the UK as farmers and landowners look for sustainable ways to improve resilience, biodiversity and long-term productivity. With updated government support now available through Countryside Stewardship and the evolving Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), there has never been a better time to integrate fruit trees into your farming system.

What Agroforestry Grants Are Available?

Defra currently offers several grants to support agroforestry establishment and planning in England, helping farmers combine productive agriculture with carefully planned tree planting.

PA4 – Agroforestry Plan

The PA4 grant supports the creation of a professional agroforestry plan and currently offers funding of £1,268.08 per plan. This can help landowners assess the best planting layouts, species selection and long-term management strategies before establishing an agroforestry system.

A PA4 plan is often required where planting takes place on more sensitive land, at higher tree densities, or where more complex agroforestry systems are proposed.

AF1 – Plant an Agroforestry Woodland Tree

The AF1 grant supports the planting of woodland tree species within in-field agroforestry systems and currently pays £5.40 per tree.

This option is suited to shelterbelts, silvopasture systems and mixed tree planting schemes designed to improve soil structure, carbon capture and livestock welfare.

AF2 – Plant an Agroforestry Fruit Tree

The AF2 grant is specifically designed to support fruit tree planting within productive farming systems and currently pays £17.83 per tree. This higher payment reflects the increased establishment cost and long-term productive value of fruit trees.

Fruit tree agroforestry systems can provide:

• Additional farm income
• Diversification opportunities
• Improved biodiversity
• Shelter for livestock
• Better soil health
• Reduced erosion and runoff
• Enhanced landscape value

The grant supports planting within in-field agroforestry systems where trees and agricultural production are intentionally integrated on the same parcel of land.

Funding Can Be Combined With Ongoing Maintenance Payments

AF1 and AF2 establishment grants can also work alongside ongoing agroforestry maintenance payments available through SFI and Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier agreements.

These include actions designed to support low, medium and high-density agroforestry systems depending on land sensitivity and planting design.

Is Your Land Eligible?

Eligibility depends on several factors including:

• Land sensitivity classification
• Tree density
• Planting layout
• Existing environmental designations
• Proposed species mix

For lower sensitivity land, some standard planting patterns can proceed without a full agroforestry plan. More sensitive land or bespoke designs may require a PA4-supported plan before planting.

Farmers should also consider future-proofing their systems by selecting suitable rootstocks, varieties and planting designs that balance productivity with machinery access and long-term management.

Choosing the Right Fruit Trees

Selecting the right fruit trees is critical for long-term success. Factors including soil type, exposure, spacing, rootstock vigour and intended management system all influence tree performance.

At Frank P Matthews, we work with growers, estates and land managers across the UK to supply high-quality fruit trees suitable for modern agroforestry systems, including:

• Apples
• Pears
• Plums
• Cherries
• Traditional orchard varieties
• Commercial fruiting selections
• Heritage and dual-purpose trees

Whether you are planning a low-density grazing system, a mixed farming layout or a commercial fruit-led agroforestry project, our team can help advise on suitable varieties and planting options.

Preparing for Future Agroforestry Opportunities

Government support for agroforestry continues to evolve as environmental land management schemes develop. With increasing focus on climate resilience, biodiversity and sustainable food production, agroforestry is expected to remain a key part of future agricultural policy.

Early planning and professional advice can help landowners maximise available funding while designing systems that remain productive and commercially viable for decades to come.

To discuss suitable fruit trees for your agroforestry project, contact our team or explore our range of fruit trees online.