These Norway spruce were planted in a dense clump to provide wildlife cover.įigure 3. If the site already has tree cover, shade-tolerant trees such as eastern hemlock, blackgum, red spruce, or sugar maple would be better choices.įigure 2. These trees will not tolerate even moderate levels of shade. For example, aspen, black cherry, larch, red pine, and black walnut are shade-intolerant species. It is important to select tree species that can thrive under given conditions.
Some site conditions such as soil moisture, soil texture, and exposure are inherent to the site and not easily changed. These site factors influence species selection. Exposure/aspect/orientation of the terrain (north and east slopes generally have better growing conditions, while south and west slopes are generally hotter and drier).Soil type (drainage, fertility, and texture).Observing and learning about the planting site a year or more before planting will provide useful insights. Not all tree species are suited to all sites.
Try answering the following questions to help you determine your objectives: What purpose(s) do you want the planting to serve? Why do you want to plant trees? With some thoughtful planning and decision making, the trees you plant will meet your objectives and provide numerous environmental benefits as well.
#Way to the woods composer how to
Use this helpful calendar as a guide to the tasks you should consider before you start your project and how to follow up for success.įigure 1. Appendix A provides a calendar outlining steps for tree planting reforestation projects. We'll begin with suggestions to help analyze the planting site and select appropriate tree species, then provide guidelines for preparing the site and the planting process, and finally, offer advice on maintaining and supporting the seedlings as they mature. This publication focuses on the values and methods of establishing wooded areas on rural property. Thankfully, many of us are, and our grandchildren and great grandchildren will benefit. It takes a dedicated landowner to plan decades ahead. Harvesting trees in a first thinning could begin as early as 15 to 20 years. The most immediate benefits are food and cover for wildlife, soil erosion control, and improved water quality. However, planting trees can accelerate the natural progression or succession from field to forest or enrich a newly regenerating forest with an uncommon species.ĭesired results are often evident in as little as 5 years following planting the planted area will begin to transform into a forest. Some information in this publication can help you protect emerging and desired seedlings that have naturally occurred. Sometimes the best plan is simply to monitor and support the natural growth of new trees. Most often, forests regenerate and old fields grow up in trees without our intervention. Whatever your purpose for planting trees, following the guidelines outlined in this publication can help you transform your land. Many view tree planting as an opportunity to leave behind a legacy-one that may benefit future generations, wildlife, and the environment. Planting trees has many benefits: improved wildlife habitat, high-quality trees for timber or specialty wood products, revegetated buffers along streams to protect water quality, increased species diversity and resiliency, enhanced attractiveness, and a more valuable estate for your family or heirs. Imagine a healthy, diverse forest, resistant to insects, fire, and disease, that will contribute to the property for generations. Imagine a forest where there was once pasture, or woodland where there were once crops.
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