On the Swan Coastal Plain, high wind speeds cause problems on most horticultural properties. The dominant wind direction is from the east in the morning and from the south-west in the afternoon. In winter strong winds can also come from the north-west with the approach of cold fronts. The establishment of well designed windbreaks will help achieve high yields and quality for most horticultural crops.
Windbreaks have a number of benefits.
Reduced plant damage Windbreaks decrease the incidence of broken stems, leaf loss and lodging of plants. The percentage of fallen and blemished fruit is reduced. Vegetable crops are protected from sandblasting. Increased plant performance Trials of various crops have shown that windbreaks can increase yield. Strong, hot winds increase evapotranspiration, causing moisture stress so that more frequent irrigation is required.