A well-designed windbreak using the right species can alleviate the effects of seasonal westerly winds, which dry out young plants. Its density is important, since it determines air movement through the trees and the cumulative effect on wind speed.
Density can be roughly estimated by gauging the proportion of the face of the windbreak filled with leaves, branches and twigs. Greater than 60 percent density is most often recommended. Density is achieved by manipulating the species, spacing, number of rows, and sometimes by pruning.
The most shelter is provided from the base to a distance of about five times the height. Any break between the trees will funnel the wind at an increased speed. If possible, plant at right angles to the prevailing wind direction, and the line needs to be longer than the space to be protected.
Generally, a double row of closely planted trees with foliage close to the ground is quite effective. If the chosen trees have clear trunks, fill the spaces between with shrubs or dense plants such as lomandra. Deep rooted trees with many small branches are a good choice and those with predominantly small leaves break the wind best.
It’s very hard to go past the syzygiums and at least there’s the bonus of colourful new growth, fluffy flowers and edible fruit. Those of Syzygium australe add an interesting flavour and colour to damper. Two closely planted but offset rows of this species with an occasional Syzygium leuhmannii interspersed for variety provide an effective windbreak and visual screen. Prune as needed.
BARUNG NATIVE PLANT NURSERY
Open Mon- Fri 8.30am to 4.00pm Saturdays 9.00am to noon
Next to Maleny Post Office, Riverside Centre
Phone 5494 3151
Leave a Reply