Blueberries are a highly desirable fruit, and their sweetness makes them a primary target for birds, who can quickly decimate an entire crop just as it reaches ripeness. For home gardeners and small-scale growers, exclusion netting stands as the most effective method for protecting the harvest from avian predators. Successfully netting blueberry bushes requires careful timing and the construction of a proper support structure, preventing both entanglement for the birds and damage to the fruit. Following a systematic approach ensures that the protective barrier is installed efficiently and remains effective throughout the ripening season.
Selecting Materials and Timing Installation
The effectiveness of exclusion netting begins with selecting the correct material and applying it at the optimal time. Netting material is typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar UV-stabilized plastic, which offers durability for multiple seasons. Mesh size is an important consideration; a mesh size of about three-quarters of an inch is usually sufficient to exclude common berry-eating birds while allowing beneficial insects to pass through.
Timing the installation correctly is crucial. The netting must be installed after the bushes have finished flowering and all the petals have dropped, ensuring pollinators have completed their work; placing the net too early will block pollination and reduce fruit set. The ideal time for placement is when the berries are still green and firm, before they show any hint of blue color, as birds are attracted to the first signs of ripening fruit.
Constructing the Support Frame
Simply draping the netting directly over the bushes is a common mistake, as it allows birds to peck at the fruit through the mesh and can damage branches during removal. Constructing a rigid support frame ensures the netting remains suspended above the plants, creating a true protective enclosure. This can be achieved using metal stakes or T-posts driven firmly into the ground around the perimeter.
Supports should be taller than the mature bushes, typically six to seven feet high, to accommodate plant growth and harvester access. For a more finished structure, a frame can be built using affordable PVC pipe connected with elbows and T-fittings to form a square or rectangular cage. The PVC frame is lightweight, easily disassembled for storage, and provides necessary clearance over the tallest canes.
For long rows, a series of arches created by bending flexible materials like electrical conduit or PVC pipe over the row offers an alternative to a fully boxed frame. The frame must be wider and longer than the bushes, allowing the netting to fall freely to the ground on all sides. Covering the tops of any posts with plastic caps protects the netting from abrasion and prolongs its lifespan.
Applying and Securing the Netting
Once the support structure is erected, the netting can be carefully draped over the frame, ideally with assistance to prevent tangling or snagging. Unroll the netting slowly over the top, ensuring it covers the entire area with generous overlap. Check the netting for any existing tears or holes before application, as even small gaps can be exploited by birds.
The most overlooked aspect of proper installation is securing the net at ground level to completely seal the enclosure. Birds can hop or walk underneath unsecured edges to reach the fruit. The perimeter must be anchored tightly to the ground using methods such as U-shaped landscape pins, heavy bricks, or lengths of old garden hose laid over the edge.
For a more permanent seal, the net’s edges can be buried slightly in the soil or held down with ground cover pegs. Securing the net to the frame with zip ties or clips at intervals ensures the material remains taut and does not sag onto the bushes. Plan for an access point for harvesting, such as a flap secured with simple clips, to avoid lifting the entire net repeatedly.
End-of-Season Removal and Storage
After the blueberry harvest is complete, the netting should be removed and prepared for reuse the following season. Taking the netting down carefully avoids snagging or tearing the material, often requiring two people for larger structures. Once removed, inspect the netting for any minor tears or holes that occurred during the season.
Promptly repair any damage with twine or spare netting material to ensure the barrier is ready for immediate use next year. Clean the net of debris, such as leaves or twigs, and allow it to air-dry completely. Proper storage involves bundling the net loosely and keeping it away from direct sunlight, which degrades the UV-stabilized plastic. Storing the netting in a dry, ventilated location prevents mold or mildew, maximizing its lifespan.