How to protect your fruit trees from birds?

Small fruits and low-growing trees

The ideal is to install a protective netting when the fruits just begin to blush. Choose fine-mesh netting.

Completely cover the fruit trees (gooseberries, blackcurrants, low-stem cherry trees…) and secure the netting to the soil to prevent birds from getting inside.

For strawberry plants, set up hoops and drape the netting over them, securing it with clothes pegs. This way, you can easily harvest the strawberries by lifting just a section of the netting.

When properly installed, these nets are effective for small fruits and low-stem trees. Remember to check the netting regularly and free any particularly determined birds that may get caught.

Large Fruit Trees

Protecting larger fruit trees, such as cherry trees, is more challenging. There is no miracle solution, and many gardeners regularly experiment with new ideas, with varying degrees of success.

The traditional scarecrow, sometimes with an original and amusing appearance, is no longer effective. Birds quickly get used to its presence and may even perch on it.

To prevent raids, install various elements in the tree, playing with movement, reflections, and noise. Move them around regularly to improve their effectiveness and remove them immediately after the harvest.

For example, hang deterrent hanging devices, old CDs (paired together with the reflective side facing outward), or accordion-folded aluminium foil strips in the tree. You can also purchase predator-eye balloons, predator silhouettes, or scare tapes (a stretched band that emits sound vibrations).

Combine and try several methods to maximise your chances of deterring birds and finally enjoy your harvest to the fullest.