To Mow or not to Mow?

[Chaz U. Farly]

Over the years i have planted, and had planted, tens of thousands of trees. the vast majority being spruce and larch. Over time i have been advised to mow between the rows of small trees and then again not to mow. My question here is: What is the current view on this mater? These are not intended for Christmas stock.  Thank you

chaz

[Jakob Berger]

Chaz,

If you are advised to mow between the trees, have you considered grazing with sheep as an alternative to mowing? If you yourself do not want to undertake such an endeavor, then perhaps a partnership with someone who does want to run animals on your place? I don't know about sheep's preference for spruce and larch. However, I would think that, provided with palatable grazing species, the sheep would avoid the trees. With the electric sheep fencing available from companies like Premier, no permanent fencing would be required. And, instead of spending money on fuel and time, you would be making money controlling the vegetation between your trees.

Good luck.

Jakob