Tree Guards for Wildlife Protection

Tree guards are essential tools for protecting young trees and plants from wildlife damage. While deer and possums are common in many areas and play vital roles in their ecosystems, they can also be threat to plants and trees.

For gardeners, farmers, and conservationists, using tree guards is an effective way to protect trees from these animals.

In this blog, we’ll explore how tree guards help safeguard young trees, discuss different types of guards, and provide tips on choosing the best options for protecting against deer and possums.

Why Use Tree Guards for Wildlife Protection?

Young trees are particularly vulnerable to wildlife, as they have tender leaves, soft bark, and rich nutrients.

Deer often rub their antlers against tree trunks to mark their territory or scrape away velvet, while possums feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of trees.

Both activities can cause significant damage, potentially killing the tree or stunting its growth.

Tree guards are physical barriers that create a buffer between wildlife and the tree, ensuring that the tree can grow without interference. Not only do these guards protect the tree, but they also allow the plant to reach maturity, which ultimately benefits the local ecosystem.

Types of Tree Guards for Wildlife Protection

Tree guards come in various designs, each offering unique features tailored to specific wildlife threats, such as deer or possums.

Biodegradable Tree Guards

Biodegradable guards are made from eco-friendly materials and gradually decompose as the tree grows.

They are ideal for environmentally-conscious growers who want temporary protection for their saplings.

Biodegradable guards are less robust than plastic or metal options but can offer good short-term protection against possums and smaller wildlife.

You can find a wide variety of biodegradable tree guards at Sage Horticultural.

Mesh Tree Guards

Mesh tree guards are made of durable plastic or metal and provide ventilation, allowing light and air to reach the tree while blocking animals.

The mesh design discourages animals from reaching the tree, while also preventing deer from rubbing against the bark.

This type of guard is an excellent choice for larger saplings and trees that need open airflow to prevent mould growth.

Plastic Spiral Tree Guards

Plastic spiral guards wrap around the trunk and offer a tight barrier against animals. They are particularly effective for small trees and saplings, as they wrap closely around the trunk, making it difficult for deer to rub against the bark.

Spiral guards are a popular choice for their easy installation, and they expand as the tree grows, reducing the need for frequent adjustments.

Metal Tree Guards

Metal guards, often made of steel, are extremely durable and long-lasting, making them suitable for areas with a high population of deer.

Their sturdiness prevents deer from rubbing their antlers against the trunk, and they are strong enough to withstand other animals. While metal guards are usually more expensive, they offer superior protection and are ideal for high-value trees.

Using Tree Guards to Protect Against Deer

Deer are strong and persistent, so choosing the right guard is essential to keep them away from young trees. Deer can damage trees by nibbling on leaves and bark, as well as by rubbing their antlers on the trunk. Here’s how tree guards protect against these behaviours:

• Antler Rubbing Prevention: Deer rubbing can strip the bark of trees, which can inhibit nutrient flow and damage the tree’s structural integrity. Metal guards or sturdy mesh guards are particularly effective in preventing deer from accessing the trunk and rubbing their antlers.
• Browsing Deterrence: Deer have a strong preference for young, tender leaves. A guard with some height, such as a mesh guard, keeps leaves and branches out of reach, reducing the chances of browsing.
• Height Consideration: For areas with high deer populations, it’s essential to use a tree guard that’s tall enough to keep leaves out of reach. Deer can reach up to six feet, so choosing a taller guard can enhance protection.

Using Tree Guards to Protect Against Possums

Possums can also cause considerable damage to trees by feeding on leaves, flowers, and buds. They are agile climbers and can scale small trees with ease. Here’s how to protect against possum damage with tree guards:

• Trunk Protection: Possums are excellent climbers, so preventing them from climbing the trunk is key. Spiral plastic guards or smooth metal guards can make it difficult for possums to gain traction, helping to prevent them from reaching the upper branches.
• Lower Branch Coverage: Possums may also try to access lower branches. Ensuring that guards extend up to the lower branches or using additional guards on low-hanging branches can help deter possums.
• Freestanding Guards: For areas with heavy possum populations, freestanding tree guards that encircle the entire sapling can provide a comprehensive barrier, keeping the possums away from both the trunk and lower branches.

How to Choose the Right Tree Guard for Wildlife Protection

When selecting tree guards, consider the following factors to ensure the best protection for your trees:

• Type of Wildlife: Deer and possums have different behaviours, so choose a guard tailored to the specific threats in your area. Metal or mesh guards are ideal for deer, while smooth, slippery guards work well against possums.
• Environment: The surrounding environment matters, as high deer populations may require more durable and taller guards, while an area with fewer wildlife threats can use lighter guards.
• Material and Durability: Consider long-term durability, especially if you’re planting trees that will need protection for multiple seasons. Metal guards offer excellent durability, while biodegradable guards work well for temporary protection.

Installing Tree Guards for Maximum Effectiveness

To ensure maximum effectiveness, it’s essential to install the guards properly. Here are a few tips for successful installation:

• Secure Guards Firmly: Make sure the guards are tightly secured to prevent animals from pushing or pulling them off. Use stakes to support freestanding guards if necessary.
• Adjust as the Tree Grows: Tree guards may need adjustment as the tree grows. Check regularly to make sure they’re not constricting the trunk or damaging the bark.
• Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect tree guards for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged guards promptly to maintain protection.

Need to buy quality tree guards?

At Sage Horticultural, you can find the best range of tree guards for pants in various designs and styles. Buy now and save.