Weed control is a distant memory at this time of year, but it will become a big job for those planting shelterbelts in the spring.
A good hoe and strong back will keep most young shelterbelts free of weeds without the need for herbicides, while mowing or tilling are less labour intensive options for larger tree lines or for rural dwellers with less time on their hands.
Marty Lelliott, manager of the Sask Power Shand Greenhouse, where trees seedlings are grown for use in shelter-belts, advised making the site as weed free as possible before planting.
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The greenhouse, heated by cooling systems at the power generating station, provides trees and shrubs free of charge to rural properties more than 10 acres in size.
“Getting trees to survive on the Prairies the first year is critical,” Lelliott said. “The key is to keep the weeds away.”
He said weeds consume moisture and soil nutrients needed by young trees.
Lelliott suggested planting trees into landscape fabric or plastic to allow moisture in and keep weed seeds from establishing.
Mulches that are thick layers of wood chips, straw, grass clippings or flax chives are useful but these break down and have to be replaced every year or two.
The downside is such materials attract rodents that can damage the plants, he said.
Cardboard, used carpets, newspapers and dark plastic are other options for moisture retention, erosion control and weed control.
Lelliott said the tree species chosen will determine how long weeding will be required.
Green ash, willows and maples are fast growing while conifers need maintenance for up to six years.
Once plants are mature, he suggested sowing short grass mixtures around them to keep out weeds.
