Visit every other day to make sure there are no birds entangled in it; this only occurs if gaps have been left. Big nets are actually the key when you eventually become really skilled at it. Using one large one is far more preferable than having to connect several of them.
Most birds get in at ground level. The bottom edge should remain on the ground, with planks placed on top of it, to stop this and the wind from blowing the net around. I have a supply of planks stored in the orchard specifically for this season. Alternately, wrap a bungy around the trunk and gather the net around it.
To achieve a lovely slack fit around the tree and allow the branches to hang loose in a shape that is as close to their natural state as possible, I prefer a net that is 12 meters wide. A larger net is also heaps easier to put on.
Tall people are winning this competition handily, despite the adage that the best things come in small packages.
Try to be as gentle as you can so that you don’t break off too many fruits. A few laterals might break, but don’t panic too muchthink of it as the beginning of summer pruning.
After trying a few nets, I concluded they were more trouble than they were worth. Also, they can be rather pricey to purchase nice ones that function. Nets really only reduce damage though. If you have small trees, it might be beneficial for you. To beat the birds, all I had to do was plant more trees.
For bugs like PC and OFM, I used Kootanay net. Too thick and too heavy. Not good for my hot and humid climate. @galinas creates nettings that suit her needs by cutting and sewing Agribon material. That material is not as thick. It is more breathable, I believe. You must be able to gather the net’s bottom and secure it to the tree trunk like Mrs. G did.
I’ve only used bird nets on strawberries, but I gave them up after inadvertently trapping a few rat snakes in them. I am grateful for any assistance the snakes can provide in controlling my pine vole infestation. In light of that encounter, I advise against using netting that comes in contact with the ground unless it is made of fine mesh, such as mosquito netting. For keeping cabbage loopers off my crucifer crops, I’ve used lightweight row covers for insect netting, but they’re too delicate to use for netting trees.
I have only netted one tree in a single season with a bird net. It is kinda worked. There are still some fruits that birds can pick from the edges where the branches and net meet. I am aware that there are various types of bird net materials and constructions available on the market. I’m willing to consider recommendations for the best net material and structure for bird nets in terms of ease of setup, longevity, and efficacy. Most nets are also flat, however some are shaped or sewn into the shape of trees. Which one works the best?.
I’ve been using the green bird netting from American Netting for approximately six years. I do have a few holes. Once a squirrel ripped a big hole. I use zip ties to repair. They last about six years although longer if careful. I love them myself. I use the 15 x 15, even though it’s a little small for one large tree and reasonably priced. I use 2 or 3 of them. I use a 30×30 covering over a framework made of PVC to keep my blueberries safe. I had some not last that long. It depends how much you use them.
FAQ
When should you put netting over fruit trees?
What kind of netting do you use for fruit trees?
What is the best way to protect fruit trees from birds?