One effective method to keep birds from eating your cherries off your tree is by using exclusion netting. This involves covering the tree with a fine mesh netting that is specifically designed to exclude birds and insects from accessing the fruit. The netting acts as a physical barrier, preventing the birds from reaching the cherries.
To use exclusion netting, first, ensure that the tree is properly pruned and shaped so that the netting can be easily draped over the branches. Then, carefully drape the netting over the tree, ensuring that it completely covers the fruit-bearing branches. Secure the netting in place using clips or ties, making sure there are no gaps where birds can enter.
Exclusion netting is widely available at garden centers and online stores. Look for a netting material that is fine enough to prevent even small birds from getting through. It is important to choose a netting that is strong and durable to withstand the elements and potential damage from birds or other animals.
Another option to protect your cherries is to use garden netting bags. These are individual bags that can be placed over individual fruit clusters or even individual cherries. The bags are made of a fine mesh material that allows sunlight and air to reach the fruit while preventing birds from accessing it. Simply slip the bag over the fruit and tie it securely at the stem.
Using netting bags can be a more time-consuming and labor-intensive method compared to using exclusion netting. However, it offers more targeted protection, especially if you have a small number of cherries or if you want to protect specific clusters that are particularly vulnerable.
Both exclusion netting and netting bags are effective in keeping birds away from your cherries. However, it is important to regularly monitor the netting and bags to ensure that they are undamaged and properly secured. Birds can be persistent and may try to find ways to get to the fruit, so it is crucial to address any potential gaps or openings in the netting.
In addition to using netting, there are a few other techniques that can help deter birds from your cherry tree. These include:
1. Scare tactics: Utilize visual and auditory deterrents such as reflective tape, shiny objects, or wind chimes to startle and discourage birds from approaching the tree.
2. Predatory decoys: Place decoys of natural predators, such as owls or hawks, near the tree to create the illusion of a threat. Birds may be less likely to approach if they believe there is a predator nearby.
3. Noise deterrents: Use devices that emit bird distress calls or predator sounds to deter birds from the area. Some of these devices can be set on timers to activate at certain times of the day when bird activity is high.
4. Tree netting: If your cherry tree is relatively small, you can consider wrapping the entire tree with a larger netting material, specifically designed for trees. This method may be more time-consuming but can provide comprehensive protection for the entire tree.
Remember to remove the netting or bags once you are ready to harvest the cherries to ensure proper ripening and prevent any potential damage to the fruit. With proper use of exclusion netting or netting bags, combined with other deterrent techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of cherries while keeping the birds at bay.
