To protect your precious strawberry plants from birds and squirrels, you can take several measures. One effective method is to use bird netting to create a barrier around the plants. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Gather your materials: You will need bird netting, landscape stakes or any other sturdy stakes, and something to secure the netting to the ground, such as garden clips or zip ties.
2. Assess the size of your strawberry pot structure: Measure the dimensions of your pot structure to determine how much bird netting you will need. Make sure to account for extra space around the edges to prevent birds from pecking through the netting.
3. Place the bird netting over the pot structure: Carefully drape the bird netting over the entire pot structure, ensuring that it covers all sides and the top. The netting should be taut but not overly stretched. If necessary, you can use multiple pieces of netting and secure them together with clips or ties.
4. Secure the netting at the edges: Use landscape stakes or any other sturdy stakes to anchor the netting around the edges of the pot structure. Insert the stakes into the ground or the pot’s outer edges, making sure they are firmly in place. This will help keep the netting in position and prevent birds from accessing the strawberries from the sides.
5. Secure the bottom of the netting: To prevent birds or squirrels from sneaking in from the ground, secure the bottom of the netting to the ground using landscape stakes or other secure methods. This will create a seal that keeps the critters out.
6. Double-check for any gaps or openings: Carefully inspect the netting to ensure there are no gaps or openings that birds or squirrels could exploit. Pay extra attention to the edges and corners, as these are often vulnerable spots.
7. Re-secure the netting after each picking: Whenever you harvest strawberries, make sure to re-secure the netting afterward. Over time, the netting may loosen or become damaged, so it’s important to regularly check and maintain its integrity.
8. Monitor and adjust as needed: Keep an eye on your strawberry plants and the effectiveness of the bird netting. If you notice any signs of birds or squirrels managing to access the strawberries, make adjustments accordingly. You may need to reinforce weak spots, tighten the netting, or employ additional deterrents if necessary.
Remember, while bird netting is an effective method for protecting your strawberry plants, it’s essential to regularly monitor and maintain the netting to ensure its effectiveness. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your delicious strawberries without sharing them with the local wildlife.
