Helpful, but people need to be aware that when planting fruit trees, they need to be protected throughout their lives as the bark is a tasty treat for deer and rabbit. So that rules out biodegradeable guards. They also need to have an open-mesh guard as solid guards can cause problems for bark development. Recycled open-mesh plastic guards seem the best solution currently. Chicken-wire is good, but there is more chance of injury to the user with this.
Thanks..... OK we learnt that its complicated. But for busy, volunteer, non-specialists, we just want to know the answer. Just tell us what to buy. My group (try to) manage a community wood in Sussex. We dont have time to read lots of articles and research loads of products. We just want a clear recommendation from the experts
Helpful, but people need to be aware that when planting fruit trees, they need to be protected throughout their lives as the bark is a tasty treat for deer and rabbit. So that rules out biodegradeable guards. They also need to have an open-mesh guard as solid guards can cause problems for bark development. Recycled open-mesh plastic guards seem the best solution currently. Chicken-wire is good, but there is more chance of injury to the user with this.
Anybody planting trees with guards, should allow for funding or arrange for voluntary groups to remove them once they are no longer required
Thanks..... OK we learnt that its complicated. But for busy, volunteer, non-specialists, we just want to know the answer. Just tell us what to buy. My group (try to) manage a community wood in Sussex. We dont have time to read lots of articles and research loads of products. We just want a clear recommendation from the experts