Salinity is an increasingly common problem in the prairies. Sometimes farmstead shelterbelts are located on areas with saline soils and it is important to plant the species which are best suited to grow in these areas. The PFRA Shelterbelt Centre at Indian Head has conducted tests to determine the salt tolerance of the tree and shrub species that it provides for shelterbelts.
Salinity can affect both the survival and appearance of trees.
Trees exhibiting salt damage have stunted growth, fewer and smaller leaves, leaf burn and in the case of evergreens, needle yellowing. The following table gives an indication of the salt tolerance of several tree and shrub species. If a species is planted in an area with a salt concentration higher than is recommended for that species it may grow but is likely to show signs of salt damage. Note that the salt tolerance of trees and shrubs may be reduced under conditions of flooding or high soil moisture levels.