Bird netting provides a physical barrier that protects valuable garden crops from damage caused by birds. This simple, non-lethal method prevents birds from accessing fruits, berries, and vegetables without resorting to chemical deterrents or noisemakers. Selecting the correct net and installing it properly ensures a successful harvest and a humane solution for managing garden pests.
Choosing the Right Bird Netting
Selecting the appropriate netting begins with considering the size of the mesh opening. For general garden protection against most common bird species, a mesh size between 15mm and 25mm is suitable, as it allows light and air to pass through freely while deterring birds. To protect against very small birds like sparrows or finches, or to ensure wildlife safety, a finer mesh of 5mm or less is recommended to prevent entanglement. Durable materials like polyethylene (PE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are preferable because they are UV resistant, extending the net’s lifespan for multiple seasons.
The netting color also plays a role in visibility and aesthetics. Black netting is less conspicuous, blending into the garden environment, but it is harder for birds to see, which can increase the risk of accidental contact. Conversely, white or blue netting is highly visible to birds, acting as an additional visual deterrent. Ultimately, the best choice balances the target bird species, material durability, and a commitment to wildlife safety by selecting a mesh size that minimizes the risk of entanglement.
Planning the Support Structure
Netting should never be draped directly onto the plants, as birds can easily perch on the mesh and peck through the openings to reach the fruit underneath. Building a sturdy support structure is necessary to keep the netting elevated above the tallest plants, creating a protective canopy. For long, straight rows or raised beds, arched supports made from flexible PVC pipe or metal hoops provide sufficient height and are easy to install.
For larger, more permanent installations over fruit trees or bushes, constructing a box-style frame using wooden or metal posts driven securely into the ground is recommended. The frame must be high enough to allow comfortable access for harvesting and maintenance, typically requiring posts between six and eight feet tall. Running a perimeter wire or a horizontal brace between the tops of the posts helps create a rigid structure, ensuring the netting remains taut and prevents sagging that could invite birds.
Step-by-Step Installation Methods
Before deployment, accurately measure the dimensions of the support structure and ensure the netting purchased has several feet of excess material in all directions. Begin by securing the netting at a single corner of the frame using clips, zip ties, or specialized fasteners, which anchors the material for easier handling. Working systematically, carefully unfold the net and drape it completely over the entire support structure, taking care to avoid catching the mesh on any sharp edges or plant debris.
Once the netting covers the frame, pull the netting taut to eliminate loose sections or folds, which can act as entry points or entanglement hazards. Secure the netting to the support frame or posts using clips or ties placed every 12 to 20 inches, maintaining consistent tension. The most important detail is ensuring the bottom edges of the net are completely sealed to the ground or the base of the frame, typically accomplished using garden staples, weights, or by burying the edges slightly to block all access points.
Ongoing Safety and Seasonal Removal
After installation, the netting must be monitored regularly to ensure the safety of local wildlife. Inspect the entire barrier frequently, especially after strong winds or storms, to check for any tears, holes, or areas where the net has loosened or sagged. Any small tears should be repaired immediately with a patch of spare netting and ties to maintain the barrier’s integrity and prevent small animals from becoming trapped.
It is also necessary to quickly check for any birds, snakes, or other small creatures that may have become entangled in the mesh, releasing them carefully if found. When the growing season concludes, the netting should be removed for storage to prolong its life. Clean the netting to remove accumulated dirt or debris, then allow it to dry completely before folding or rolling it loosely. Storing the clean, dry netting in a cool, dark place prevents UV degradation and ensures the material is ready for reuse in the following year.