Cattle should not be allowed among trees less than five years old. Grazing among young trees should be monitored, as it is difficult to predict the likelihood of tree damage. Cutting the pasture growth among the trees for hay or silage for the first few years is an alternative to livestock. Pastures will decline if not managed. Fertiliser is not necessary for establishment on farm sites with a good fertiliser history.
Soil testing gives an indication of nutrient status.
Establishment costs depend on many factors, such as site conditions and equipment used. Tending costs also depend on the site and the style of planting adopted. The proportion of the stand requiring pruning increases as belts get narrower, consequently increasing the costs. A breakdown of costs, in 1999 dollars, is given in Table 1. A softwood processing industry is established in south-west Western Australia.