How to Protect Large Fruit Trees with Netting

Protecting your fruit trees from birds, pests, and harsh weather conditions is crucial for a bountiful harvest. One effective method is to install netting over your large fruit trees. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your trees remain productive and healthy.

Before we dive into the installation process, let's discuss why netting is beneficial. Fruit tree netting provides a physical barrier, preventing birds from pecking at your ripening fruits. It also deters pests like insects and rodents, reducing the need for pesticides. Additionally, netting can protect your fruits from hail damage and excessive sun exposure.

Choosing the Right Netting

Selecting the appropriate netting is the first step in protecting your fruit trees. The ideal netting should be durable, UV-resistant, and have the right mesh size.

For most fruit trees, a net with a 1/4" to 1/2" mesh size is sufficient. This size prevents birds and larger pests from entering while allowing for adequate airflow and light penetration. UV-resistant netting ensures longevity, as it won't degrade under sunlight exposure.

Material Considerations

Netting is typically made from polyethylene or polypropylene. Both materials are lightweight, durable, and resistant to rot and mildew. Polyethylene netting is often more affordable, while polypropylene offers better UV resistance and durability.

Consider the height and spread of your tree when determining the size of the netting. You'll want a net that's large enough to cover the entire canopy but not so large that it sags or touches the ground, which could attract pests or harbor moisture.

Hardware Requirements

To install the netting, you'll need the following hardware: support poles, netting clips or ties, and, optionally, a support frame for larger trees. Support poles should be sturdy and tall enough to extend above the tree's height. Netting clips or ties should be made of plastic or coated metal to prevent damage to the netting.

For larger trees, a support frame can help distribute the weight of the netting evenly and prevent it from sagging. This frame can be made from PVC pipe or metal tubing, depending on your preference and the size of your tree.

Installing the Netting

Once you've gathered your materials, it's time to install the netting. This process involves several steps, from preparing your tree to securing the netting in place.

Before you begin, ensure your tree is pruned and free of any dead or dying branches. This will make the installation process smoother and ensure the netting doesn't get caught on any debris.

Securing the Support Poles

Begin by inserting the support poles into the ground around the perimeter of your tree. Space the poles evenly, ensuring they're far enough apart to support the netting without causing it to sag. Use a hammer or a mallet to drive the poles into the ground until they're secure and stable.

For larger trees, you may need to use a post hole digger to create deeper holes for the support poles. In this case, fill the holes with concrete to ensure the poles remain upright and stable.

Attaching the Netting

Start at the top of your tree and unfold the netting, allowing it to drape down over the canopy. Use netting clips or ties to secure the top edge of the netting to the support poles, working your way around the tree.

As you work your way down the tree, pull the netting taut and secure it to the support poles at regular intervals. This will help prevent the netting from sagging and ensure it provides an effective barrier. For larger trees, you may need to use a support frame to help distribute the weight of the netting evenly.

Securing the Bottom Edge

Once you've secured the netting around the perimeter of your tree, it's time to secure the bottom edge. You can do this by tucking the edge of the netting into the ground or by using stakes to hold it in place.

Tucking the netting into the ground is the simplest method, but it may not be effective in areas with heavy rainfall or strong winds. Using stakes provides additional security but requires more effort to install.

Maintaining the Netting

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your netting remains effective and durable. Regularly inspect your netting for any signs of damage or wear, and repair any tears or holes promptly.

During the winter months, you may need to remove the netting to prevent damage from heavy snow or ice. If you choose to leave the netting in place, ensure it's secured tightly to prevent it from being blown away by strong winds.

Cleaning the Netting

Over time, your netting may accumulate dirt, dust, and other debris. To keep it clean and functional, wash the netting with a mild detergent and water solution. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the netting gently, taking care not to damage the material.

After washing, rinse the netting thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it on your tree. This will help prevent the growth of mold or mildew, which can degrade the netting over time.

Storing the Netting

When not in use, store your netting in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Fold the netting neatly to prevent it from becoming tangled or damaged during storage.

By following these storage guidelines, you can help extend the lifespan of your netting, ensuring it's ready to protect your fruit trees for many seasons to come.

Installing netting over your large fruit trees is a simple yet effective way to protect your harvest and ensure a bountiful yield. By choosing the right netting, installing it properly, and maintaining it regularly, you can create a safe and productive environment for your fruit trees to thrive. Happy gardening!