What does a windbreak do?
A windbreak is a planting of trees or shrubs that slows the wind. By lowering wind speed, it reduces snow drifting across drives and yards, shelters animals and buildings, and helps cut heating costs. It can also reduce dust and noise and provide habitat for wildlife. Because the effect is measured in distance downwind, a taller, better-designed windbreak helps a larger area than a short, thin one.
A windbreak does not stop the wind. It slows and lifts it, and its effect extends a distance downwind. The shape and density of the planting decide how well it works.
If snow is a concern, ask a local expert about row spacing, since the distance between the planting and the buildings matters for where drifts form.
Where should a windbreak go?
Place it on the side of the farmstead facing the strongest winter winds, set back far enough that snow piles up before reaching buildings and drives. The right distance depends on the height of the trees and your local conditions. If your farmstead has existing trees, a conservation planner can help you decide whether to add to them or start a new row.
Keep it away from overhead and underground lines, septic systems, and wells. Do not plant where mature trees could fall on a building or road. Check setbacks and any local rules with your county.
- Upwind side of the farmstead
- Away from lines, septic, and wells
- Room for mature height and width
What should you plant?
A good windbreak often has several rows of different species: evergreens for year-round shelter and deciduous trees or shrubs for added height and density. The best species depend on your soil, climate, and moisture, so choose local advice over general lists. Planting different species, mixed across rows, lowers the chance that one pest or disease takes out the whole planting.
Your conservation district, state forestry agency, and NRCS can tell you which species do well locally, and many offer seedlings or planting help. Avoid planting invasive species, and avoid planting a single species in a long row, since a pest or disease can wipe it out.
Native plants often suit local wildlife and weather best, but ask local experts what is available and appropriate where you live.
How do you plant and care for it?
Prepare the site, control weeds, plant at the right time, and protect young trees from deer, rabbits, and mowers. Water in dry spells, especially in the first years. A bit of care early makes a big difference in survival. Mowing around young trees too closely can injure them, so mark each seedling clearly with a tall stake or flag.
Keep records of what you planted and when. Replace losses promptly. Mulch and weed control matter more than fertilizer for young trees. Ask your local office for planting advice for your soil.
What are the limits and drawbacks?
Windbreaks take years to become effective, and they take land out of production. Poor placement can cause snow to pile where you do not want it, such as on a driveway. Roots can reach drains and septic lines. Ask a tree professional to check older rows after storms, since a damaged tree near a building is a hazard.
Trees need maintenance as they age. Dead trees can fall, and storms can break limbs. Plan to inspect them and to replace older rows in stages.
Where can you get help?
Local NRCS offices, conservation districts, state forestry agencies, and extension offices give design advice and may offer cost-share programs. Rules and funding change, so ask for current information.
The U.S. Forest Service and your state forestry agency can explain tree health and planting. Ask early, since many programs have seasonal sign-up periods and tree orders are made well before planting.
How do windbreaks fit with the rest of the farm plan?
A windbreak should fit with your fields, roads, and utilities. Consider how equipment will turn at the ends and how water will flow around the rows. A windbreak across a drainage path can trap water.
Think about the long term. The trees you plant now will be there for decades, and the people who live on the land later will inherit your decisions. Write down the plan, the species, and the planting date, and keep it with the farm records.
- Leave room for equipment at row ends.
- Do not block natural drainage.
- Keep a written planting record.
Key takeaways
- A windbreak slows wind and snow and shelters buildings and animals.
- Place it on the windward side with room for mature trees.
- Use locally suited, mixed species and protect young trees.
- Ask NRCS, conservation districts, and forestry agencies for help.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.