Planting woody cover. Before woody cover is planted, careful consideration must be given to location, size and configuration of the planting. Woody cover must be interspersed throughout the habitat. It does little good to establish woody vegetation that is not in association with food sources and other types of needed cover. Woody plant selection should be based on the wildlife species that will be managed, adaptability of the woody species and care required following planting.
Management following planting is very important to ensure survival.
The woody planting must have supplemental water, proper weed control and be protected from livestock. Approved chemicals, mechanical methods or weed barrier material will provide adequate weed control. If livestock are present, the plantings must be fenced. Dead woody plants should be replaced during the first two growing seasons. Brushpiles and other artificial coverts are sometimes recommended when the above options are not feasible.