Growing Fruit Trees in Livestock Spaces – Safe Choices for Horses

Trees and livestock belong together. Across history, traditional farms combined grazing with orchards and shelterbelts, creating landscapes that were both productive and sustainable. Fast forward to today and there is a welcome renewed interest in reintroducing trees into paddocks, stables and pasture, harmoniously blending animal welfare with biodiversity and food production. So planting trees in livestock spaces just makes sense but when it comes to horses and other grazing animals, choosing the right trees is vital.

Why Plant Trees in Livestock Areas?

We’re glad you asked. Trees provide natural protection from the elements – sun, wind and rain, improving animal comfort. Trees also improve the soil health, improve water retention and roots reduce erosion. They create biodiversity and beneficial ecosystems whilst creating food for us as well because with the right fruit trees you can harvest fruit while animals graze safely nearby.

Safe Fruit Trees for Horse Paddocks

Horses are curious grazers and will nibble at bark, leaves, and fallen fruit. While moderation is always important, there are an abundance of fruit trees that are generally safe to grow in or near equine spaces. Apple (Malus domestica) is a a classic choice. Horses enjoy windfall apples in small quantities and the trees are hardy across the UK. Pears are similar to apples and safe in moderation whilst also bringing beautiful spring blossom as well as autumn harvests. Plums and mulberries are also excellent choices for fruit trees to plant near grazing areas.

A fruit tree variety that is safe but needs caution are Cherry. Sweet and sour cherries can be grown near paddocks, though leaves and wilted branches can contain cyanogenic compounds which are toxic in large amounts. Trees are best placed where horses cannot freely strip bark or branches.

Fruit Trees to Avoid

Not all fruit trees are safe for livestock. Some contain toxins in bark, leaves or seeds that can cause serious illness. Avoid planting:

Yew (Taxus baccata) – Extremely poisonous, even in small amounts.

Cherry laurel – Toxic leaves and seeds.

Elder (Sambucus nigra) – While humans can cook the berries, raw parts of the plant are toxic to horses.

Stone fruit pits (apricot, peach etc.) – Contain cyanide compounds; better kept out of reach.

Practical Considerations

A few things to do to protect both the trees and the animals are:

Protect Young Trees: Horses and livestock often strip bark or chew young saplings. Use tree guards or fencing until trees are established.

Manage Fallen Fruit: Windfalls can cause digestive upsets if animals gorge (same as us humans really) so we suggest harvesting fruit promptly or restrict access during peak drop.

Think About Placement: Plant trees along paddock edges, in corners, or in designated “living shelterbelts” rather than scattering them throughout open grazing areas. This brings maximum benefits whilst also making it easier to restrict access.

Beyond Horses: Other Livestock

Cattle and sheep can also benefit from shade trees, though sheep are particularly fond of bark and require strong protection for young trees. Pigs also thrive in orchard systems, happily eating windfall fruit. Traditional “pannage” (turning pigs loose in orchards or woods) is a centuries-old practice and very much still practiced in the New Forest today.

Blending Tradition and Modern Farming

Integrating trees into livestock spaces is more than practical, it’s a way to revive a farming tradition that values diversity. Fruit trees offer shade, beauty and food, enriching both the landscape and the lives of animals and people.

With thoughtful planting, choosing safe species, managing windfall and protecting saplings you can create farming spaces where livestock and orchards coexist in harmony.

Disclaimer: we have given this as guidance and can take no responsibility for any harm to animals or livestock.