New MSU Extension Publication Highlights Shelterbelt Weed Control

A new, free publication from Montana State University Extension provides information on cultural, mechanical and chemical approaches for weed control in shelterbelts.

The new MontGuide addresses weed management in shelterbelts, which is important as undesired plants can compete for moisture, nutrients and light, reducing the growth and survival of desirable species. This is particularly important in Montana, where soil moisture and nutrient availability often limit plant growth. Also, unmanaged shelterbelts can serve as a source of weed propagules into surrounding habitats.

Shelterbelt weed control begins prior to planting trees or shrubs and adequate site preparation is essential. Care should be taken to effectively control perennial weed species prior to shelterbelt planting, as they are extremely difficult to control once trees or shrubs have established.

After planting, mulches, cultivation, mowing, hoeing and herbicides can help reduce the spread and abundance of weeds in shelterbelts. Physical barriers also aid in conserving soil moisture and prevent water and wind erosion. The MontGuide offers tips on selecting a physical barrier to control weeds, as you need to consider costs and longevity.

Mechanical control practices such as cultivation, mowing or hoeing can help reduce weed abundance, but they can bring weed seeds close to the soil surface where they germinate and excessive cultivation can result in soil erosion. In established shelterbelts, mechanical weed control should be applied with care to avoid tree root and lower branches, root collar or tree trunk damage.

Finally, while herbicides can provide selective and rapid weed suppression, particularly of hard-to-control perennial species, they should be applied at the proper growth stage and care should be taken to avoid injury to desirable shelterbelt plants.

For more detailed information in a free copy of “Weed Management in Shelterbelts”, MT201104AG, visit your local county or tribal MSU Extension office or go to the MSU Extension website http://www.montana.edu/publications. For other valuable weed management information, visit the MSU Cropland Weed Management website at http://ipm.montana.edu/cropweeds.