Conservation Choices: Tree/Shrub Establishment | NRCS Iowa
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Conservation Choices: Tree/Shrub Establishment

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  • Newsroom

    • News Releases
    • Events & Deadlines
    • Features
    • Photos and Videos
    • Public Notices
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    • Success Stories

Conservation Choices: Tree/Shrub Establishment

Tree/Shrub Establishment

Tree/Shrub EstablishmentWhat it is

Establishing woody plants in non-forested areas by planting seedlings, container/potted plants, cuttings or by direct seeding.

How it helps

  • Woody plants can be established for forest products.
  • Provide erosion control.
  • Produce woody biomass for energy.
  • Improve energy conservation and beautification.
  • Improve water quality through uptake of soil and water borne chemicals and nutrients.
  • Beautify an area (aesthetics).
  • Protect a watershed.
  • Improve air quality.
  • Provide wildlife habitat.
  • Control snow drifting.
  • Store carbon in biomass.

Planning ahead

  • What is the goal of your tree/shrub planting?
  • Will plantings be protected from wildlife damage?
  • Will you need access lanes?
  • Will pesticide drift from cropland adversely affect plants?

Tech Notes

  • Follow state and local regulations for locating plants adjacent to roadways; avoid creating blind corners and intersections.
  • Choose species adapted to soil-site conditions.
  • Planting date and care in handling should ensure an acceptable rate of survival.
  • Only use viable, high quality and adapted planting stock or seed.
  • Prepare planting site to establish and grow selected species.
  • Choose the planting method appropriate for existing site conditions and species capabilities.
  • Timing and equipment should be appropriate for the site and soil conditions.
  • Keep the planting protected from adverse impacts such as livestock and wildlife damage and fire.

Maintenance

  • Control competing vegetation until the wood plants are established.
  • Check for insect and disease damage regularly.
  • Maintain firebreaks around all plantings, as needed.
  • Replant as needed.
  • The use of irrigation, mulching, geo-textile mats, tree shelters, and tree shades may be needed.

Iowa Practice Standard

  • Tree/Shrub Establishment (PDF)

Photos

  • Tree/Shrub Establishment (Flickr)

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