This article appears in the 2026 Summer Newsletter, see more at the LLNRD Newsletter Archive
When it comes to planting trees, it is never too early to begin planning to give young trees the best chance at survival. Along with proper site preparation and species selection, weed suppression is a very important ingredient in healthy tree growth.
The Lower Loup NRD (LLNRD) sells tens of thousands of trees and shrubs each year. Several dozen species are typically available during the LLNRD tree season that begins in November and runs to early April. To help those trees and shrubs survive to maturity, the Lower Loup NRD sells coconut mats used to suppress the growth of weeds, grasses, and other competing plants that can crowd a young seedling and steal important moisture.
Each mat is constructed with 100 percent compressed coconut fiber which is naturally biodegradable and stops weed growth while still allowing water and airflow to reach the plant’s roots. Plastic sheeting that has traditionally been used for weed suppression tends to trap heat near the roots, drying the soil. By keeping the soil around the plant cool, coconut mats help the soil retain water while boosting the efficiency of each watering event.
The Lower Loup NRD sells the mats individually or in bundles of 25. Three sod staples, which are provided with each mat, hold them in place. For best results the mats should be installed during planting, but can also be added at any time to older plantings. The mats are round and measure 24 inches across. The area around the base of each tree or shrub should be void of other vegetation before installing the mat.
Trees and shrubs are planted for many important reasons. With opportunistic weeds always looking to take root, and considering how often portions of the District are in need of precipitation, these all-natural weed suppression/moisture preserving tools are a critical component of protecting the investments of time and money that people spend on trees and shrubs.
