The video discusses strategies to protect fruit trees from deer damage, emphasizing the importance of installing a fence before planting. Techniques include using a combination of fences, hedges, and brush piles to create a barrier that deters deer and also provides wildlife habitat.

Protecting Your Orchard: Essential Tips for Planting Fruit Trees in Deer Country

Are you planning to plant some fruit trees this year, or have you already planted some? Before you proceed, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to ensure the success of your orchard, especially if you’re in an area with a high deer population.

The Importance of Preparation

I recently visited a young couple who were excited about their newly planted orchard. Unfortunately, their enthusiasm was dampened when they discovered that deer had nibbled on the tops of their fruit trees. This can lead to stunted growth and diminished fruit production. To avoid such setbacks, it’s crucial to implement strategies that prevent deer from damaging your trees.

Effective Strategies for Deer-Proofing Your Orchard

Install a Reliable Fence

One of the most effective ways to protect your fruit trees is by installing a sturdy fence. A previous owner of our orchard had put up a fence back in 1980, which has been instrumental in keeping deer and other animals out. Ideally, a deer fence should be about 8 feet high, but you can enhance its effectiveness by adding layers, such as barbed wire or additional fencing materials.

Enhance Fence Depth with Vegetation

A fence alone might not be enough to deter deer. You can increase its effectiveness by adding trees and brush piles along the fence line. Deer perceive fences as two-dimensional barriers, so adding depth with vegetation can create the illusion of an impenetrable barrier. This makes deer hesitate before attempting to jump over.

Create a Hedge Barrier

If you’re planning for the long term, consider planting a hedge alongside your fence. Although it takes time to grow, a mature hedge acts as both a windbreak and a wildlife corridor, while also providing additional protection against deer. Planting a hedge simultaneously with your orchard can yield benefits over time, shielding your young trees from wind and potential deer damage.

The Benefits of a Fedge

A “fedge,” or fence hedge, is an innovative strategy that combines the benefits of a fence and a hedge. This method involves weaving living trees and shrubs together to form a dense barrier. Historically used to contain livestock, a fedge can be just as effective in preventing deer from accessing your orchard.

Protecting Young Trees from Deer Damage

Deer can be particularly harmful to young trees, as they often strip branches of their leaves. To prevent this, it’s essential to ensure your fence reaches the ground to stop deer from crawling underneath. Additionally, reinforcing your fence with a hedge or brush piles can significantly reduce the likelihood of deer intrusions.

Conclusion: Plant a Fence Before You Plant Trees

Before you plant fruit trees, consider establishing a fence or protective barrier to safeguard them from deer damage. By taking proactive measures, you can ensure that your trees reach their full potential and produce an abundant harvest. For more information on maintaining a successful orchard and practical tips on pruning, check out our virtual tour of the permaculture orchard and our pruning course. Stay tuned for more insights, and here’s to hoping your trees are fruitful!