How to Plant a Windbreak

How to Plant a Windbreak

Installing a windbreak on your property has many potential benefits. It can reduce the cost of heating a home, help deter problems of drifting snow and dust, affect your livestock, and add value to your property. However, there are crucial steps you must follow in order to receive the optimal benefits.

• 1. Properly Design your Windbreak. Each property has its own individual characteristics and needs, so it is important that you create your windbreak to cater specifically to your land. Planning is vital when knowing where you will place your windbreak, how far it will extend out, and the actual size of it. To find out this information, it is suggested that you consult the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) who will determine what's best for your property

• 2. Prepare for Planting. Once you've determined the design for your windbreak, you must then prepare for planting. You have to take into consideration the things that could hinder the efficiency of your windbreak. Determine the kind of trees you want to use and where you will be planting. Make sure that where you have chosen to place the windbreak is in an area where you will be able to provide some sort of irrigation system to give the trees and shrubs water. Also know the type of land you are planting on. Will you be planting on crop land or where erosion occurs? Will the types of trees you plan to plant be able to sustain the weather and other challenges that may occur in the area that you live in? Are there any animals or species that could potentially make the windbreak their home and cause damage to it? You must take proper steps in advance to ensure that you are ready and able to plant a functioning and successful windbreak.

• 3. Be attentive in planting your windbreak. Start planting your windbreak in the fall before the anticipated spring planting. This will give you time to order all of the trees or shrubs you wish to use in your windbreak, since many of them may not be available during other seasons. Remember to plant your windbreak on the north and northwest sides of the property. It is also suggested that the trees in these areas be conifers as they create a wall against winter winds. Make sure you are planting your windbreak no more than the distance of one or two tree heights from the house, or at least 100 feet from or no more than 350-400 feet away. Dig holes 20-40% wider than the root system to allow for root growth and development. Most importantly make sure that you are planting enough trees and shrubs to create a large enough windbreak that will protect your property from wind, snow, and dust.

• 4. Have a Maintenance Plan for your Windbreak. Once you have planted your windbreak, you should have a plan on how to maintain it. You must be conscientious when it comes to the caring of these plants. Remember to water, fertilize, prune, nd apply herbicides to the windbreak for at least three years until your windbreak is established. Careful oversight is needed as well, to make sure that no threats like diseases, funguses, animals, or bugs are threatening the development of the windbreak.