WINDBREAKS 47 



This question of proper location of windbreaks or proper outlets 

 for cold air is one whose remedy is at once apparent. 



3. Since the trees in a windbreak require sunlight, water, food, 

 etc. to maintain life, it is evident that these substances must be 

 found in the neighborhood of the windbreak. Therefore, if apple 

 trees are planted too close to the windbreak, they must compete 

 with the latter for the essential life elements. All observations 

 and records have shown that apple trees planted close to a wind- 

 break are not so thrifty as those planted at some distance. These 

 less thrifty trees produce apples which are smaller and lacking in 

 color, and therefore less desirable as to quality. 



4. Under Advantages, birds were said to increase when more 

 sheltered conditions obtained. It is found that insects and diseases 

 also increase under the calmer orchard conditions. Many of the 

 insects are beneficial, but the ravages of the destructive insects and 

 diseases are sufficiently great to prove a menace. The injury 

 done by insects and diseases is more marked near the wind- 

 break. Modern methods of spraying, however, tend to control 

 these pests, and where the orchard is carried on as a business 

 proposition, very little if any inconvenience from them need be 

 experienced. 



Where to plant the windbreak. The best position for the wind- 

 break in relation to an apple orchard is on the side toward the 

 prevailing winds. It is the west and the north winds that are the 

 most injurious, especially in sections near the ocean or large lakes 

 and on the prairies. 



When planning the windbreak some attention should be given 

 to air drainage. Cold air flowing downhill must not be obstructed, 

 and where two lines of windbreak trees meet, care should be taken 

 to prevent the formation of pockets in which cold air may settle. 

 If attention to air drainage is not given, injuries from frost may 

 result. Where the orchard is very large it may be advisable to 

 plant several lines of windbreak trees at the distance apart that 

 will give the best protection. As already pointed out, it is gener- 

 ally conceded best not to plant the windbreak too close to the 

 orchard, because of the danger of injuring the nearest trees. 

 About 300 feet from the first row of apple trees seems to be 

 the proper distance. 



