The importance of Linden(Tilia spp.) in agroforestry practices in Rize province

Purpose: Linden is one of the significant tree species that has the potential to be used in agricultural forestry practices. In the observations made in the research area, the Rize region, it was observed that Tilia rubra DC. and Tilia platyphyllos Scop. species were being cultivated. This study aims to evaluate the potential utilization of linden (Tilia spp.) in agroforestry practices. Method: In this study, the usability of linden in agroforestry practices were investigated based on a survey conducted in 32 villages and neighborhoods across five districts (Pazar, Hemşin, Çayeli, Ardeşen, Çamlıhemşin) of the Rize region. The surveyed householders were randomly selected from among those who volunteered. Findings: When examining the various uses of linden in the region, it was determined that the utilization of linden for fodder leaves ranks first at 90.4%, followed by its use as timber and fuelwood at 84.9%, and cultivation for its flowers at 83.6%. The local people do not prefer any specific aspect for the planting of linden trees. Conclusion: Linden trees are planted on lands that are not used for agricultural purposes, along streams and rivers, in strip patterns around agricultural crops, and intercropped with other agricultural products using integrated cultivation methods. It has been determined that Linden is most commonly cultivated around agricultural crops, at a rate of 79.4%. This planting pattern prevents yield reduction of the region’s main crop, tea, caused by the shading effect of other trees. Thus, it enables the multifunctional utilization of Linden. The second most common cultivation practice, at 49.3%, is mixed planting with other tree species. Local people should be educated on conscious land use. Considering the multifunctional benefits of Linden, its planned cultivation should be expanded through agroforestry practices. Since the Linden tree exhibits vigorous growth in the Eastern Black Sea Region, it is a tree that should be emphasized and cultivated more for commercial purposes. The cultivation of Linden should be supported by the state which would contribute to reducing social pressure on forests, protecting the soil, strengthening the economic position of the local population, and fostering rural development.