It’s that time of year when blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, mulberries and others are getting ripe for the picking in New Jersey. While the fruits are enticing for you and your family, they are more enticing for birds and other critters.
The sight of vibrant, ripe berries hanging from your garden plants is a delightful reward for any gardening enthusiast. However, it’s disheartening to wake up one morning only to find that birds have feasted upon your luscious berries. To prevent these feathered thieves from enjoying the fruits of your labor, it’s essential to employ some clever strategies to protect your berry bushes.
One of the most reliable and time-tested methods to protect your berries from birds is by using bird netting. This physical barrier prevents birds from reaching the fruits while still allowing sunlight, air, and water to reach the plants. To employ this technique, follow these steps:
- Measure the area you wish to protect and purchase bird netting accordingly.
- Use stakes or posts to create a frame around the plants, ensuring the netting is supported above the foliage.
- Drape the netting over the frame, making sure it extends to the ground on all sides and is firmly secured.
Birds are intelligent creatures, and they can quickly adapt to static deterrents. However, employing a combination of scare tactics can still be effective in deterring them from your berry bushes. Here are a few strategies to consider:
Hang shiny objects like old CDs, aluminum foil strips, or reflective tape near your plants. Birds are startled by the light reflecting off these items, making them think twice before approaching.
Use wind chimes, bells, or even a radio set to a talk radio station (with a human voice) near your garden. The unfamiliar sounds will deter birds from venturing close.
Install motion-activated sprinklers or devices that emit sudden loud noises when birds approach. The element of surprise will deter them from returning.
Birds tend to have preferences when it comes to berry types. By planting a diverse range of berry plants in your garden, you can distract birds from focusing solely on one type. By providing a variety of berries, you increase the chances of preserving a portion of your harvest while still allowing birds to enjoy some fruits.
If you have enough space, consider planting a separate bird-friendly area in your garden. Sow bird-attracting plants such as sunflowers, millet, or elderberry shrubs nearby. By providing birds with an alternative food source, they are more likely to be enticed away from your precious berry bushes.
Timing is crucial when it comes to protecting your berries from birds. Monitor the ripening process of your berries closely and try to harvest them as soon as they reach optimal ripeness. This prevents birds from discovering a bountiful feast and reduces the chances of them returning for subsequent pickings.
Growing berries can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but protecting them from birds requires some proactive measures. By implementing a combination of netting, scare tactics, diversifying your berry plants, providing alternative food sources, and timing your harvests, you can effectively safeguard your berries from avian intruders. Remember, finding the right balance between protecting your berries and coexisting with nature is essential. Happy berry growing, and may your harvest be abundant and bird-free!