How to protect fruit trees from the wind?

[Shadow23]

I am using left over "moth cloth" to create a wind guard tied around chicken wire and held with stakes. I saw it on ABC gardening. They used shade cloth. Can anyone comment on which would give better wind protection. Shade cloth or moth cloth? I include a photo of the Bunnings product.

[KatieC]

Hi @Shadow23,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community! It is awesome you have joined us and thank you for asking how to best protect your fruit trees from the wind. Our resident D.I.Y. expert will be online later this afternoon, but I'll check with our knowledgeable members @mich1972, @Noelle, and @Jamespeter100 if they have any suggestions.  In the meantime, I suggest having a read of this thread Help! How to protect fruit trees from wind.  

We look forward to seeing the solution you decide on. Should you have more questions along the way please reach out, we are always here to help. 

Katie

[mich1972 · Accepted solution]

Good morning @Shadow23 This set up looks ok. For stronger support to your trees, using 3 metal star pickets around the tree - secured with a rubber tie wire will help too. 

[EricL]

Hello @Shadow23 

It's great that you've received excellent advice from @mich1972. I totally agree in using star pickets to reinforce the the netting. If the moth cloth is rated for outside use, there should be no issue in using them to protect the trees from the wind. As I'm sure you're aware, it's better to let some of the wind through rather than totally blocking it off. 

A solid barrier tends to create a vacuuming effect that would prove more harmful to the plant. If you've run out of moth cloth, it's perfectly alright to use shade cloth for the remaining trees.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Noelle]

Hi @Shadow23 

Staking, using a trio of star pickets and rubber tie wires will work just as well as the shade cloth/moth cloth protection, especially as the tree grows taller than the existing shelter.  Staking can remain in place until the tree is larger and has developed s strong root system that anchors it firmly and will resist strong winds.

[Shadow23]

Thanks so much for a quick response. I will need a wind shield forever I think, not just staking initially for strong roots but I get strong salt winds which rattle the leaves. I'll think about their future growth and height later. Cheers to the community

Sarah