Trembling aspen

 We decided to plant a windbreak in front of the polytunnel and chose Populus tremula 'Erecta'  - aspen - for the job. This variety originates in Sweden and is suited to this latitude.  It grows quickly and vigorously and is happy in any kind of soil: clay, sand, chalk even. Our are in thick clay - but we dug deep holes with the Avant and filled them with earth. The trees are also ornamental: the leaves tremble or rustle in the wind creating a shimmering effect.  In the spring, aspen carry catkins and the leaves turn golden yellow in the autumn. We planted them 2.5 metres apart which will create a hedge in a few years time.  The maximum height will be about 12 metres. The trees will filter the wind rather than create a barrier.