How to net a fruit tree

Short answer: measure the tree, buy a net at least as wide as the branch width plus twice the tree height (both ways), spread the net to its full width first, throw it over the top so it reaches the ground on every side, and peg or weigh down the edges so birds cannot walk in underneath.

1. Measure the tree

  • Height (H): from the ground to the top of the tree.
  • Width (W): across the branches at the widest point, and depth (D) the other way.

2. Work out the net size

The net goes from the ground on one side, over the top, to the ground on the other side. So you need:

  • Net width = W + 2 × H
  • Net length = D + 2 × H

Example: a tree 5 m tall and 5 m across needs a 15 m × 15 m net. A small tree 1.3 m tall and wide fits under a 4 m × 10 m net. Our net calculator and size finder do the maths for you.

Tip: prune first if you can – a smaller tree needs a much smaller net. Nets touching the fruit let birds peck through, so on big trees hold the net off the fruit with poles and measure over the poles.

3. Spread the width first

Out of the bag a net looks narrow and long. With a helper, pull the long edges apart until the holes are square, keeping the length loose – then the net shortens to its full size. If you fix the length first, the holes cannot open and the net stays narrow.

Spread the width of a bird net first until the holes are square; the length then shortens to the size you bought

4. Put it over the tree

  1. Roll the spread net onto a pole or broom handle along one long edge.
  2. With one person each side, lift the pole over the top of the tree and let the net drop down the far side.
  3. Pull the net down evenly so it reaches the ground all round.

5. Close the bottom

Most birds get in at the bottom. Peg the edges to the ground, weigh them down with bricks or timber, or gather the net and tie it around the trunk. Check the edges every few days.

6. When to put it on and take it off

Put the net on after the blossom has dropped (bees need to pollinate) and before the fruit starts to colour. See our netting calendar. Take the net off after harvest so branches do not grow through it, let it dry, fold it and store it out of the sun – a UV-stabilised net can then last for years.

7. Keep wildlife safe

Keep the net taut and check it every day or two. See wildlife-safe netting.

Not sure what you need? Call us on 021 074 5789 or email nzbirdnetting@gmail.com – we are happy to help, whatever net you use.