Planting for the Future — Preparing, planting and caring for new shelterbelts

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Introduction

 56 K Modem  Cable/DSL   Text Version

Shelterbelts have transformed life on the prairies over the past 100 years. Their ability to control wind and water has helped create conditions that early settlers could only dream about.

Preparation

 56 K Modem  Cable/DSL   Text Version

Producing vibrant, healthy, fast growing shelterbelts depends on good site preparation, proper planting technique and effective weed control.

Planting Part I

 56 K Modem  Cable/DSL   Text Version

A mechanical tree planter is the most efficient method of planting - four people can plant up to 8 km or 5 miles of shelterbelt in a single day.

Planting Part II

 56 K Modem  Cable/DSL   Text Version

Place any bales you're not using right away out of direct sunlight, to keep them cool.

Mulching Part I

 56 K Modem  Cable/DSL   Text Version

Plastic mulch not only retains water in the soil under it; it helps wick water from the surrounding soil.

Mulching Part II

 56 K Modem  Cable/DSL   Text Version

Once the mulch is down, you can have something that's in place, and on an ongoing basis, control those weeds.

Mulching Part III

 56 K Modem  Cable/DSL   Text Version

Temperatures can become extremely high under the plastic mulch on a hot, sunny day. Pull seedlings through as quickly as possible.

Maintenance

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One tree produces enough oxygen every day to keep four people breathing. An acre of trees can eliminate 5 1/2 tonnes of carbon dioxide from the air.

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