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Renovation techniques

Virtual Windbreak

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Sod release

Continuous proper weed control is often necessary to maintain tree health, especially during windbreak establishment.  Competition from weeds can reduce available soil moisture to the point where trees are extremely stressed.  Some of the main competitors are the sod-forming grasses such as smooth bromegrass, quackgrass and Kentucky bluegrass.  Unless these grass species are controlled, they will take over the windbreak, reducing its health and effectiveness. 

Herbicides are often needed to accomplish this task.  Follow label directions carefully and wear the appropriate personal protective equipment when using any pesticide.  Guides for weed control in shelterbelts have been published by many states, including North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska (pre-emergence herbicides, post-emergence herbicides) and Montana (Shelterbelt Weed Management, publication EB 60, not available online.