Competition by weeds for soil moisture, nutrients and light can reduce the growth and survival of newly planted shelterbelts. This is particularly true in the Brown and Dark Brown soil zones of...
Description
Competition by weeds for soil moisture, nutrients and light can reduce the growth and survival of newly planted shelterbelts. This is particularly true in the Brown and Dark Brown soil zones of Alberta, where soil moisture often limits plant growth. Moderate infestations of annual weeds can reduce the growth of tree or shrub seedlings by 50 to 75 per cent. Perennial weeds must be controlled before planting a shelterbelt. After shelterbelt planting, weeds within the tree row can be controlled using mulches, herbicides, specially designed mowers or tillers, or hoeing. As well, weeds should be controlled in strips at least 2 m (6.5 feet) wide on each side of the tree row.