What is a limitation of alley-cropping?

The correct answer highlights a specific management strategy necessary for the sustainability of alley-cropping, which involves the practice of alternating rows of crops with rows of trees. In this system, resting or allowing trees to rejuvenate every several years helps maintain soil health and tree vitality, ensuring that they continue to provide the benefits of shade, windbreaks, and nutrient cycling for the crops.

This resting period is crucial because it prevents over-exploitation of tree resources, allowing time for recovery and reducing competition for nutrients and water between the trees and crops. This element of rest every 8-10 years is essential for the longevity and productivity of the alley-cropping system, illustrating a key limitation associated with this agricultural practice.

The other options provided do not accurately reflect the nature of alley-cropping. While maintenance is essential for the success of this system, assuming it can be practiced without any maintenance overlooks the ongoing care needed to manage the health of both trees and crops. The claim about its success in urban environments is misleading, as alley-cropping is primarily intended for rural or agricultural settings where land can be managed for multiple purposes. Lastly, the assertion that it requires constant planting without breaks misrepresents the management practices that focus on balance and sustainability rather