Newly planted trees are vulnerable, and damage from animals can significantly impact their health and survival. Animals chewing on bark or the underlying cambium can disrupt the flow of water and nutrients, leading to severe, long-term issues or even tree death, especially when food sources are scarce in late winter. Learning How To Protect Newly Planted Trees From Animals using humane methods is crucial for their establishment. It’s important to avoid inhumane deterrents like poisoning or trapping, as live trapping can separate families or cause fatal territorial disputes. Instead, consider these effective and compassionate strategies.
A young tree trunk wrapped with a white plastic retractable tree guard.
Understanding the Threat to Young Saplings
Young trees and shrubs often fall prey to various animals seeking sustenance. Rodents, rabbits, deer, and even raccoons or squirrels can cause damage. Chewing animals target trunks and branches, while climbing animals might break fragile limbs. Understanding these risks helps in choosing the most appropriate protective measures for your saplings.
Humane Strategies for Animal-Proofing Your Trees
Protecting your investment in new trees involves proactive and kind measures. The following methods can help minimize animal damage while your trees are young and most susceptible.
Physical Barriers: Your First Line of Defense
Tree Guards
Applying a tree guard is a straightforward and effective way to shield your tree’s trunk from chewing animals. Opt for guards that are retractable and breathable, allowing space for the tree to grow naturally. These guards physically prevent animals from accessing the bark. Remember to remove all tree guards in the spring as temperatures rise to prevent moisture buildup along the trunk, which could lead to decay.
A newly planted tree surrounded by a cylinder of chicken wire fencing secured with wooden stakes.
Fencing Solutions
If more robust protection is needed, especially against persistent rodents or rabbits, installing chicken wire fencing around the tree’s mulch ring can be very effective. Bury the fence a few inches into the ground to stop animals from digging underneath, being careful not to damage the tree’s roots. Ensure the fence is tall enough—about two to three feet—to deter hopping animals like rabbits. This method creates a more comprehensive barrier for tree protection from wildlife.
Deterrents and Environmental Modifications
Using Decoys
Placing decoy birds, such as owls or eagles, near your trees can deter smaller animals. Colourful lawn windmills are another option; their movement in the wind can sometimes be more effective than static decoys. To maintain their effectiveness, change the location of your decoys frequently so animals don’t become accustomed to them. Remove these deterrents once your tree or shrub is mature enough to withstand some animal interaction.
A brightly colored pinwheel-style lawn windmill spinning in a garden setting.
The Importance of Correct Mulching
Mulch is beneficial for tree health, but improper application can create problems. If mulch is piled against the trunk of new trees, it can offer a hiding spot for rodents and rabbits, allowing them to chew on the bark unnoticed. Prevent this by applying mulch two to four inches thick in a doughnut shape, ensuring it never touches the base of your tree or shrub. This technique also prevents moisture from being held against the stem, which can cause decay.
A person carefully spreading mulch in a doughnut shape around the base of a young tree.
Strategic Planting: The “Right Tree, Right Place” Principle
Damage can also occur from climbing animals like raccoons and squirrels seeking food or shelter. Young trees are flexible, but if they cannot support an animal’s weight, branches can snap. Choosing the right planting location helps minimize this risk. It’s generally recommended to plant trees at least five feet from fences and ten feet from buildings with foundations to limit easy access for climbing animals.
When to Seek Professional Help
If, despite your best efforts, your tree or shrub sustains extensive animal damage, it’s wise to have it assessed by a certified arborist. They can evaluate the tree’s condition and determine its chances of survival, offering expert advice on care or potential removal if necessary.
Conclusion
Protecting your newly planted trees from animal damage is an essential part of ensuring their long and healthy life. By implementing humane strategies such as tree guards, appropriate fencing, decoys, correct mulching techniques, and thoughtful planting locations, you can significantly reduce risks. Consistency and vigilance are key. For more detailed guidance on tree care or if you’re facing severe damage, consulting with a certified arborist is always the best course of action.
