western-queensland-gardening-guide.pdf - South West NRM

Keep weeds away
Weeds, in particular grasses, are extremely good competitors with young trees for
moisture and nutrients. They can rapidly dry soil out and slow the growth of the
tree. Competing plants should be kept at least 1 m away from the tree for the first
two years. A good covering of mulch can help control weeds.
Protect from animals
Grazing or trampling by animals can kill trees or seriously slow tree growth. Young
trees need to be protected from common grazing animals in the area. Fencing or tree
guards may be required depending on the local situation.
Weed control for tree planting
Weeds are simply any plant that we think shouldn't be there. en we plant bees,
nature almost always sows a few other plants that we consider to be weeds. These
weeds not only ruin an area's appearance, they can also cause damage or harbour
pests. But the most severe problem is the competition they provide for the trees we
are trying to grow. Weeds growing around a young tree reduce its chances of
survival, make it unhealthy, and reduce its rate of growth. Effective weed control is
therefore an essential part of tree planting.
E'ects of competition
A plant's growth is controlled by the light, water and nutrients available in its
growing space. Their supply, however, is limited and can be reduced further by
drought, soil erosion or other environmental changes. Competition can therefore be
crucial (See Figure 12).
Figure 12. Elements that control a plant's growth