Setting Up operation and maintenance

The farmer should keep in mind the plant location, spacing within shelterbelts and the species selection while setting up a shelterbelt.

Steep sided belts shelter a larger area because they provide a greater height barrier to wind flow and a lower density on the windward side. Sloping profiles on the windward side can actually reduce the distance over which protection is provided.

Taller species should be placed in the centre of a belt. Lower growing species can be placed on each side. Medium to tall trees are usually spaced 3 to 4 metres apart. Large shrubs can be spaced between 2.5 to 4 metres while smaller growing shrubs are generally placed 1.5-2.5 metres apart.

Plants should be placed closer together in belts with fewer rows to obtain the desired level of density.

The farmer should select teh species to provide the height, growth rate and density characteristics suitable for teh shelterbelt

The farmer should select locally native species, which generally have higher survival and establishment rates. Species that will grow tall on the site, with an appropriate foliage density and growth rate should be considered.

The farmer should use one species per row or species with similar or compatible growth forms.

In arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, tree species such as eucalyptus, biradi/sisau, rosewood, Lasora (Indian cherry) and Indian plum trees are most suitable.

Shelterbelts have to be managed for longevity; the trees would need to be replaced when damaged.