Frequently Asked Questions
Shinsei poplars (Populus nigra x maximowiczii) are fast-growing modern hybrid that was first released commercially in 2000 following extensive trials in New Zealand.
They provide excellent erosion control, windbreaks, and shelter for livestock while improving soil quality.
Shinsei is recommended for general soil conservation on moist inland sites, and is reasonably wind tolerant.
Peak King Country performance:
This variety thrives in the King Country climate. In official New Zealand planting trials run in Te Kuiti, Shinsei was a standout performer. Driven by the region's high average rainfall, 3-metre poles shot up to an average height of 6.4 metres in just four years.
No heavy branches :
Shinsei was specifically selected for its tidy shape. It naturally grows with a single, straight central trunk and tight, upward-pointing branches.
Low Possum Palatability:
Unlike many older poplar varieties that get stripped bare, Shinsei leaves are taste bad to possums.
Speedy shade:
Shinsei grows its leaves earlier in the spring than most other poplar varieties, providing early-season shade and shelter for your herd.
Built-In Disease Resistance:
Shinsei features exceptional natural resistance to leaf rust and leaf fungal spots.
The optimal planting window is from early June through late August during the dormant season. This allows the poles to establish strong root systems before spring growth. Avoid planting during frost or when soil is waterlogged.
Preventative Space-Planting: Space poles 12 to 14 metres apart in a staggered grid. This requires 60 poles per hectare.
Active, Moving Slopes: Tighten the spacing to 10 metres apart. This requires 100 poles per hectare.
Critical Catchments / Gully Toes: For severe, actively slipping hot spots, pack them tightly at 5 to 8 metres apart. This scales up to 150 to 200+ poles per hectare, but is usually confined to just the damaged section of the paddock rather than the entire land block.
For shelter belts and windbreaks a spacing of 3-5 meters is typical .
We can arrange delivery throughout the North Island. Contact us for a quote.
Sorry, we do not deliver to other islands at this stage.
Water during extended dry periods in the first summer.
For best results in cattle grazed areas, plant only 3 metre poles and remove livestock until the trees are established (1-2 years).
Dynex protectors can help stop cows from rubbing on the trunks and damaging the tree.
Pruning lower branches after 2-3 years encourages straight growth.
