- How should the bird protection net be designed?
- The right size of the net
- When and how is the bird protection net installed?
With a bird protection net you can protect fruit-bearing trees such as cherries or the vine from hungry birds. However, to ensure that the animals are not harmed, it is important to attach the nets in such a way that they do not get caught in them. You can find out how to do this in this article.
Bird nets prevent birds from eating our fruit
How should the bird protection net be designed?
Bird protection nets are available in different designs in specialist garden shops and online. Pay attention to these points when buying:
- The mesh size should be no more than 25 x 25 millimeters.
- The net must not be too rigid, otherwise it will be difficult to lay it over the tree.
- Choose it big enough. To do this, estimate the circumference of the fruit tree or measure it using a rope that is wrapped very loosely around the crown.
The right size of the net
Bird protection nets are usually square, the length of the side is specified. If the crown has a circumference of around 10 metres, the side length of the net must be at least 2.5 metres.
It is better to choose the bird protection a little larger. This makes it easier to lay it over the fruit tree without tension.
When and how is the bird protection net installed?
Regardless of the type of fruit, the following rules apply:
- As the flowers are very delicate and free access is an advantage for insects, do not attach the net until the tree has faded.
- Since the green fruits are not yet pecked by birds, wait until they start to change colour.
Attaching the net
Have a second person help you with this work:
- Grab two corners of each bird screen and place the center of the screen over the treetop.
- All leaves and fruit should be covered when you release the net.
- The sides of the bird protection net reach to the trunk.
- Fasten it here with strings that you pull through the stitches and tie.
- There must be no loopholes to prevent birds from getting under the safety net. They would find no way out and would perish.
tips
Bird protection nets get very dirty. Placed in a laundry bag, they can be easily cleaned in the washing machine at low temperatures and with a mild detergent. Then let it air dry.