The specimen tree

One large tree in the middle of a paddock can provide an umbrella of shade in summer and some protection from cold in winter. Singularly it is not a particularly effective wind block but several in a paddock are. Trees also look attractive, adding a parklike ambience to your property.

If a single tree is the only shelter available, animals will frequently camp underneath it. You may eventually notice a build-up of manure and change of grasses underneath. If winter mud is an issue, choose a deciduous tree which will drop its leaves in winter. The branches provide a canopy which filters the rain and holds the ground-warmth, and the sunlight coming through will help to keep the ground dry.

Protect a tree or trees. Use a sturdy surround that can stay in place for at least 10 years. If you choose a fodder tree that animals like to eat, remember it is exactly that and needs very good protection from long necks and tongues until it is large enough to withstand being nibbled. As protection is the expensive part, it is economic to plant a tree in each corner or side of a paddock to utilise existing fences and provide shelter from every direction.

When choosing a tree, always select what suits your climate and conditions. Then consider what benefits you and your stock. It is no good choosing a tree for autumn colour if you don’t get autumn chill. If you suffer from drought in summer, choose a fodder tree you can use as supplementary feed.

These trees will eventually grow large, and so will their roots. Some can reach 60m or more from the trunk. This will harvest any nutrients that leach past the grass roots, take it up into the leaves and these will then fall in autumn to feed stock or become compost for the grass.

Get robust, full-size trees on their own roots (not grafted). You don’t want the dwarf trees sold for orchards and home gardens.

Buy robust, full-size trees on their own roots, not grafts

Poplar and willow provide shade and shelter, stabilise hillsides and can be cut to provide stock food when required.

I have chosen to double-fence our internal fences with netting and electric outriggers and plant fruit trees. Seedlings are planted and ruthlessly thinned. The exposure deters leaf curl and brown rot which flourish in sheltered, humid conditions. I get...