Preparing, Planting and Caring for New Shelterbelts Using Plastic Mulch
Well designed shelterbelts trap and distribute snow, conserve and filter water, control erosion and decrease energy use. But, our trees are also a valuable aid in the fight to slow climate change. Shelterbelts are extremely effective in sequestering greenhouse gases, by acting as carbon sinks.
The following videos provide various tips on tree planting and plastic mulch from the preparation of the ground to the maintenance of trees.
Benefits of shelterbelts
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.
Watch the introduction video about Benefits of shelterbelts.
Preparation
Producing vibrant, healthy, fast growing shelterbelts depends on good site preparation, proper planting technique and effective weed control.
Watch the video on Preparation.
Planting
A mechanical tree planter is the most efficient method of planting.
Watch the videos:
Planting - Part 1: Preparation and safety tips using mechanical tree planters
Planting - Part 2: Using mechanical tree planters
Mulching
Plastic mulch allows trees to get a headstart without the competition. Trees get full access to the moisture and medium available, and also get the advantage of warmer soil and nutrients to grow in, so they actually grow faster.
Watch the videos:
Mulching - Part 1: Benefits of plastic mulch and preparation and safety tips using mulchers
Mulching - Part 2: Installing the plastic mulch on the machine and to the ground
Mulching - Part 3: Pulling the seedlings through the plastic mulch and stabilize the soil
Maintenance
Establishing effective shelterbelts requires extensive preparation, proper execution and ongoing maintenance.
Watch the video on Mainternance to learn methods and tips for increasing survival and health of trees.
Order the videos on DVD
The videos listed on this page are available on DVD. To order your copy of Planting for the Future: Preparing, planting and caring for new shelterbelts, contact the Agroforestry Development Centre.