Get Started On That Windbreak Now!

by John R. Piskac, Resource Conservationist
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Manhattan, Kansas

Bone-chilling cold weather is upon us. It wasn't that long ago when we were sweltering in summer heat. Such are the "joys" of our Kansas climate. We can't do much about these normal temperature extremes. However, we can modify the environment in and around homes to make conditions more tolerable throughout the year.

Well-designed tree and shrub plantings can reduce home heating and cooling costs, reduce maintenance, and control snow drifting. Windbreak plans should take into consideration the site-specific need for protection and beautification.

Trees and shrubs included in the design should be adapted to the site and conditions. Many plant species that are available through nurseries will not persist under the close spacing typical in windbreak design. Plants should be selected based on their intended function, such as wind control, aesthetics, and shade. Because of their density and branching characteristics, coniferous evergreens should be the basis of all windbreak designs.

Location of the windbreak is important. Consider protecting the site from the north and west winds of winter. Plantings for summer protection are generally deciduous trees that drop leaves and allow the winter sun to penetrate. To minimize drifting snow, windbreaks should be located 150 feet away from buildings, driveways, or other areas to be protected. In the urban setting, space limitations will likely compromise the ideal design.

Young seedlings are vulnerable to harsh conditions during the first year. The new plants need moisture and sunlight to survive. Supplemental watering, protective mulch, and weed control will ensure success of the planting.

The economic value of windbreaks in terms of saving energy and enhancing the value of property should be the main concerns in the design. Additional benefits of comfort, beauty, privacy, and the attraction of birds and animals should also be considered, as these factors are important to many people. Carefully placed trees and shrubs can provide these benefits for many years.

For more information about windbreaks, contact your local Natural Resources Conservation Service office or conservation district office located at your local county USDA Service Center.

For more information about NRCS programs, visit the Kansas NRCS web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov.

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Last Modified: 09/09/2008