About WindrowHome

Last updated: May 4, 2026

WindrowHome is a reference on windbreak planting and property wind protection across Canadian provinces. The content covers tree and shrub species selection, planting methods, site assessment, and long-term establishment — with an emphasis on practical, region-specific information for the prairie, boreal, and coastal climates of Canada.

The focus is narrow by design. Windbreak planting in Canada has a century of documented research behind it — largely through the Indian Head Shelterbelt Centre in Saskatchewan, which operated from 1901 to 2013 — and that body of knowledge is worth presenting clearly, without dilution into general gardening topics.

What This Site Covers

  • Tree and shrub species suited to windbreaks by Canadian hardiness zone
  • Row layout, spacing, and orientation relative to prevailing wind
  • Planting methods for bare-root stock
  • Livestock shelterbelt design and placement
  • Weed control and first-year establishment practices
  • Long-term maintenance and species replacement planning

Editorial Approach

Articles on this site reference documented sources: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada publications, provincial agricultural extension bulletins, and peer-reviewed forestry research where available. Where information is drawn from established practice rather than a specific publication, that distinction is noted.

Content is reviewed and updated annually to reflect changes in species availability, pest pressure (such as the advancing range of the Emerald Ash Borer), and provincial program changes.

Contact and Corrections

For corrections, additional information, or questions about site-specific conditions, contact the editorial team:

WindrowHome Editorial
4821 Prairie Wind Crescent
Saskatoon, SK S7K 3R2
Canada

Phone: +1 (306) 555-0147
Email: info@windrowhome.org

Editorial Team

Margaret Hollis

Senior Editor, Prairie Regions

Based in Saskatoon. Twenty years working with provincial agricultural extension programs in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with a focus on shelterbelts and soil conservation.

David Tremont

Contributing Writer, Species Research

Forestry technician with experience in provincial tree nursery operations in Alberta. Contributes species identification and hardiness zone content.

Carla Osei

Research Editor

Reviews published research from AAFC and provincial forestry departments. Coordinates content accuracy checks against current provincial pest and quarantine maps.

Disclaimer

The content on WindrowHome is provided for informational reference. It does not substitute for site-specific advice from a certified arborist, provincial agricultural extension office, or registered professional forester. Local soil conditions, municipal bylaws, and provincial regulations vary and should be confirmed before undertaking any planting project. WindrowHome accepts no liability for decisions made based on content published on this site.

The content on this site is for informational purposes only. Always consult a certified arborist or local agricultural extension office before undertaking large-scale planting projects. WindrowHome does not accept responsibility for decisions made based on information published here.