Identify the culprits
Understanding what bird species are ruining your cherry tree will help you develop an effective plan to keep them out. Bird damage to trees usually starts with twig, bud and stem destruction. It then progresses to premature leaf drop and finally to actual fruit destruction. Some birds, like the Cedar Waxwing and European Starling, can devastate your cherry harvest. It is important to know what kind of birds are responsible so that you can tailor your protection plan accordingly.
Prop Up a Netting
One of the most efficient ways to keep birds away from your cherry tree is to prop up a kind of bird netting over it. Bird netting is a lightweight plastic or nylon covering that you can place over the tree, preventing birds from getting to the cherries. Ensure that the netting is at least three feet away from the tree to make sure the birds can’t get to the fruit. It is also important to secure the base of the netting around the base of the tree to ensure that no birds can get underneath either.
Position Scarecrows
Another way to keep birds away from your cherry tree is to position scarecrows strategically around it. Scarecrows can scare away birds as they are scared by their presence and sound made by their movements. Make sure to make them visible enough to make the birds feel scared, but try to make them look as natural as possible so they blend in with the environment.
Erect From Fencing Around the Tree
Erecting a fence around the cherry tree can also be an effective way to keep birds away. The fence should be at least six feet high in order to keep birds away and should have a sloping top to make it harder for birds to jump over it or crawl through it. Additionally, try to make the fence as invisible as possible so that it doesn’t distract from the beauty of your cherry tree.
Hang Reflective Objects from the Tree
Another way to keep birds away from your cherry tree is to hang reflective objects from the tree. This can include things such as CDs, shiny ribbons, or helium balloons. The idea is that these reflective objects will scare away the birds, as they will become startled when they see the reflection. Make sure to hang the objects high up so that the birds won’t be able to get to them.
Keep the Area Around the Tree Clean
It is important to keep the area around the cherry tree clean to prevent the birds from finding food or shelter near the tree. Make sure to remove any fallen fruit and pick up any debris, such as sticks, leaves or grass clippings, that can provide the birds with a place to hide or roost. Additionally, try to reduce the amount of water pooling or puddles around the tree, as this could also provide a place for birds to drink and bathe.
Spray the Tree with an Organic Repellent
Spraying your cherry tree with an organic repellent can also be an effective method to keep birds away. There are many organic repellents available on the market specifically designed to repel birds. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow the directions on how to properly apply the repellent. Additionally, check the label to ensure that the repellent is safe for use on edible plants, such as cherries.
Using Audio Deterrents
Using audio deterrents is another way to keep birds away from your cherry tree. Audio deterrents include things such as radios, horns or whistles that make loud noises that birds find unpleasant. These are usually set on timers during the periods of the day that birds are most active, such as in the early morning or late evening. Make sure to check that the deterrent is not too loud as this could be disruptive to other animals, humans and the environment.
Eliminate nearby Food Sources
Birds are attracted to areas with food sources, so it is important to eliminate any nearby food sources to the cherry tree. Make sure to clean up fallen fruit, seeds and nuts that birds may be attracted to. Additionally, make sure to check for bird feeders in the vicinity and remove them if necessary. Birds may also be attracted to areas with open garbage cans or compost piles, so make sure to keep these areas secured and away from your tree.
Keep Squirrels Away
Squirrels are another common culprit of cherry tree damage. They may climb the tree to reach the cherries or can even pull down the branches to eat the fruit. To keep squirrels away, make sure to wrap the tree trunks with protective netting and cover the tops of the tree with bird netting or reflective objects such as CDs or helium balloons.
Using Natural Scents
Using natural scents is another effective method to keep birds away from your cherry tree. There are many natural scents that birds find unpleasant, such as citrus or peppermint oils, which can be sprayed around the tree or placed in a cotton ball. Additionally, planting different flowers or herbs that have strong odours can also be used to repel birds. It is important to remember to reapply the scents regularly as their potency can fade over time.
Using Repellents
Using commercial repellents, such as coyote urine, can also be an effective way to keep birds away from your cherry tree. These repellents can be sprayed around the tree or placed in a granular form around the base of the tree. However, it is important to remember that these repellents may need to be reapplied regularly to remain effective. Additionally, be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow the directions on how to properly apply the repellent.
