Background Information
Cherry trees are a popular choice for home and commercial orchards. Lush and full of fruit, these trees are a target for birds and other pests. Without proper protection, birds can damage or even destroy cherries on the tree or in the ground. To help protect birds from cherries and cherry trees from birds, it is important to take the necessary steps to create an effective deterrent.
Discourage Birds
One of the most effective strategies to protect cherry trees from birds is to make the trees undesirable to birds. For example, many birds have been known to avoid trees with a lot of movement. By strategically planting the trees near wind turbines and other moving objects, the birds may be deterred from the tree. Additionally, hanging shiny objects from the tree or placing predator decoys around the tree can also be used to discourage birds from the tree.
Netting and Covers
The installation of bird netting is another way to protect cherry trees from birds. These netting systems are designed to keep birds out of trees while allowing sunlight and rain to filter through. The systems must be installed correctly and routinely inspected to ensure that they are in good condition and effective. Additionally, many orchard owners have also had success using tree canopy covers. These covers help to keep birds away by reducing visibility to the cherries and creating a darker environment.
Physical Repellents
Physical repellents, such as large chunks of wood, stones, and other objects, can also be used to protect cherry trees from birds. By placing these large objects near the trees, the birds will be discouraged from landing on the tree. Additionally, these physical repellents can be effective when combined with other deterrent strategies, such as bird netting or predator decoys.
Startle Repellents
Startle or “scare” repellents are another effective way to protect cherry trees from birds. These repellents rely on the birds’ fear instinct to keep them away from the tree. Popular startle tactics include the use of predator decoys, silver tape and other reflective materials, water blasts, and noise or sound devices. All of these devices work by creating a sudden noise or visual disturbance when the birds are near the tree, which startles and scares them off.
Chemical Repellents
Chemical repellents are one of the more extreme methods of protecting cherry trees from birds, however they can be very effective in certain cases. Chemical repellents are typically mixed with water and sprayed around the trees. These repellents act by leaving a bitter taste on the cherries, which discourages the birds from eating them. In addition to being effective, chemical repellents are also relatively easy to use and are safe for both the tree and the environment.
Multiple Strategies
The most successful methods for protecting cherry trees from birds involve a combination of multiple strategies. By combining multiple deterrents, such as bird netting, predator decoys, physical repellents, startle repellents, and chemical repellents, it is possible to create an effective system that will deter birds from the tree.
Costs and Maintenance
The costs associated with protecting cherry trees from birds can vary. Some methods, such as physical repellents, require minimal investment and can be completed without outside help. Other methods, such as bird netting, may require a larger initial investment, however can provide years of protection with minimal maintenance.
Environmental Considerations
When protecting cherry trees from birds, it is important to consider the environmental impacts of the chosen deterrents. Repellents, especially chemical repellents, can have lasting impacts on the environment and should only be used when necessary. Additionally, installing bird netting and covers can be damaging to the surrounding flora and fauna, and should only be used with caution.
Effects on Production
Though protecting cherry trees from birds is an important step, it is also important to consider the effects that the chosen deterrents may have on the trees’ production. Many of the strategies listed above can have an effect on the tree’s pollen production, which can reduce yields. Additionally, over reliance on chemical repellents may damage the soil and reduce quality of the fruit.
Alternatives to Deterrents
In addition to deterrents, there are also alternative ways to protect cherry trees from birds. Planting a variety of flowering plants, such as crocus and columbine, around the base of the tree can provide a visual distraction for the birds, thus deterring them away from the tree. Additionally, keeping the tree well pruned and establishing a bird sanctuary near the tree can be beneficial.
Conclusion
Protecting cherry trees from birds is an important step in ensuring a successful harvest. There are a variety of strategies that can be used to discourage the birds, such as predator decoys, physical repellents, startle repellents, chemical repellents, bird netting, and covers. It is important to understand the effects that these strategies may have on the environment and production, as well as consider alternatives, such as planting flowers and bird sanctuaries. With the proper strategies in place, it is possible to protect cherry trees from birds.
