Choose the location for your tree belt based on the function of the tree belt and types of trees/shrubs you will be planting. A proper site should have good soil, water and lighting. A technician from the UNWNRD or the Natural Resources Conservation Service can help you plan your tree belt.
You may want to consider using weed barrier fabric, which is available to purchase through the UNWNRD. This fabric greatly reduces the trees' competition for water and nutrients from grass and weeds. It also increases the soil's moisture retention and provides protection from mowers.
Prepare the tree planting site. If possible, apply herbicide to the site in the fall prior to spring planting. If this is not possible, make sure to spray at least two weeks prior to planting, depending on the herbicide being used. This will reduce competition from grass and weeds, which can be deadly to your newly planted trees. If you choose not to apply herbicide, the ground can be tilled. However, this can cause the soil to lose valuable moisture and results in increased competition from weeds.
After your trees have been planted, be sure to provide them with supplemental water if natural precipitation is not adequate. This may require watering once a weed during the hot, dry months of summer.
