During winter, rodents pose a significant threat to apple, plum, and other fruit trees. In search of food, they invade garden plots and gnaw on bark wherever they can reach. Such damage can often be fatal to trees. So, how can you protect apple tree bark from rodents and hares in winter?
Young apple trees are particularly at risk. Their soft and “juicy” bark is especially attractive to mice and hares. To ensure rodents stay away from your garden, it’s essential to protect the trunks of your trees. There are many ways to do this. Below are the most effective methods to guard against rodent invasions:
1. Wire Mesh Enclosures
Wrapping the trunk of an apple tree with fine metal mesh is the most effective, albeit expensive, method. Use a mesh with very small openings and wrap it around the trunk, maintaining a distance of at least 20 cm from the tree bark. The edges of the mesh should be buried 10–15 cm into the ground to prevent rodents from burrowing under it. To secure the mesh, fasten it tightly.
Flexible plastic mesh can also be used. However, be cautious, as plastic may crack in freezing temperatures, leaving the tree unprotected.
This type of protection does not block sunlight or hinder air circulation, ensuring no discomfort for the tree. The only drawback is the cost—fine metal mesh for all the apple trees in a garden can be quite expensive.
2. Wrapping with Spruce Branches
This is a more budget-friendly yet fairly effective method. Wrap the tree trunk tightly with spruce branches from the ground up to a height of 70–75 cm. Secure the branches firmly with rope to prevent them from slipping under the weight of snow.
You can also wrap dense film over the spruce branches. In this case, even the smallest mouse won’t be able to reach the trunk. However, the film restricts proper air circulation. While some air might flow between the branches, it won’t provide full ventilation.
The spruce branches you use should not have thick stems, as these won’t fit snugly around the trunk, leaving dangerous gaps that rodents can access.
3. Whitewashing Apple Trees
Many whitewashing solutions for apple trees contain substances that repel mice, hares, and other common rodents. These include water-dispersion paints specifically designed for whitewashing tree bark.
Before applying whitewash, always clean the trunk thoroughly to remove dirt and pests. Otherwise, the whitewash may peel off quickly, exposing the tree bark.
4. Poisoned Bait
In winter, poisoned bait can be quite effective but must be frequently replenished. Additionally, if left outdoors, the bait can easily be buried under snow.
The downside of this method is its danger to pets. Even if your pets are in the city, neighboring dogs or cats might wander into your garden. Contact with the bait can result in severe poisoning or even death. Use this method with caution.
5. Ultrasonic Repellers
Ultrasonic repellers can only be used if you reside on your property throughout the winter. These devices require constant power and supervision.
If you live near your garden year-round, ultrasonic repellers can provide excellent protection. They cover a wide area and consume minimal electricity.
6. Plastic Bottles
This is another very economical yet effective method. Cut off the bottom and neck of a plastic bottle. Slice the resulting cylinder along its length so it can be wrapped around the tree trunk. Secure it tightly with rope.
This method has one significant drawback: plastic completely blocks air circulation.
To prevent rodents from burrowing under the plastic before the snow falls, bury the bottom of the bottle 5–10 cm into the ground.
These simple but effective methods will help you protect apple tree bark from the sharp teeth of rodents and hares during winter. Preventing such damage is crucial for the survival and health of your trees.