AbstractThe potential contribution of multipurpose trees and shrubs in an agroforestry system for improving crop-livestock farming was investigated in Bangladesh. The tree Leucaena leucocephala (Leucaena) and shrub Sesbania acculeata (Sesbania) were planted around homesteads for use as forage, fuelwood and live fence and for improving soil fertility. Leucaena was lopped at 1 metre height 4 times a year and Sesbania was harvested twice. Estimated annual yields of leaf and stem were 7.5 t/ha and 7.0 t/ha, respectively. Soil in plantation sites maintained a high pH and organic matter (OM) suitable for cultivation of crops. Phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S) in soil were increased by 71% by leaves and roots. Supplementation of fresh foliages to lactating cows at the rate of 25% of feed dry matter (DM) requirement/day increased milk yield of cows and live weight of calves by 32% (0.607 l/day) and 12% (0.236 kg/day), respectively. A gross income of US$ 135 per household was earned from increased milk yield, meat production, fodder and fuelwood. In addition, the plantation created an extra 6 h work/month per farm and provided a live fence for protection of crops. Agroforestry systems with fodder tree plantation may improve livestock rearing, soil fertility and income on the farm without affecting the current farming system.