PADDOCK TREES
Poplar and willow are two common paddock trees throughout New Zealand farms. The reasons for this include: • they prevent erosion of hillsides; • they are quick growing; • they provide good quality feed in times of summer drought; • they are robust.
But best of all, they are easily propagated from poles in winter.
Poplar leaves (and bark) provide zinc which helps prevent facial eczema. The tannins from the willow are also beneficial for stock.
There are many different species of both poplar and willow. They vary in their susceptibility to rust, palatability to possums, and preference to microclimate. Most will tolerate damp areas.
The easiest way to see what suits your block is to look around your neighbourhood and see what is growing well in similar situations.
If you can then locate the owner of the tree, ask if you can harvest some branches to grow.