Nebraskans are encouraged to plant trees and shrubs as windbreaks and to provide wildlife habitat.

The USDA's Constance Miller says farmers who plant trees or
shrubs should treat them like any of their other crops to help them
survive.

That means removing weeds nearby that might compete for moisture
and watering trees and shrubs. Miller says the watering is
extremely critical in the first year.

Removing competing vegetation within about two feet of a row of
trees will also help them thrive.