Protective nets can limit bird damage on sweet cherries in Michigan

The number of high-density sweet cherry plantings is increasing in Michigan, but concerns remain, particularly about protecting cherries from birds. Modern high-density orchards create a different environment, potentially favoring pests but also making it easier to implement protective measures, such as netting.

With funding from the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant (via the Michigan Tree Fruit Commission), Michigan State University (MSU) researcher Catherine Lindell studied the effects of ExcludeNet on reducing bird damage in high-density cherry orchards, as well as its impact on Drosophila suzukii and fruit quality. The results were positive.

The research team used PVC pipes to secure the nets to the ground. After laying them on the trees, they wrapped them around the PVC pipes to seal the edges. They also used paper clips, which can be bought at any stationery store, to close the ends of the nets.

Lindell’s team conducted netting trials in 2023 and 2024, covering Santina, Sweetheart, Benton, and Black Pearl cherry varieties. The nets, installed two to three weeks before harvest, significantly reduced bird damage without affecting fruit quality. In 2024, netted rows also had lower numbers of spotted wing drosophila adults and larvae. However, Brix levels were slightly higher in control rows.

Additionally, MSU tested netting on Honeycrisp apple trees to deter codling moths and birds, with data still under analysis.

To seal the ends of the nets, the MSU research team used paper clips, the type found in stationery stores.

Grower Isaiah Wunsch noted increasing bird damage in his Black Pearl cherry orchard, despite the high fruit volume in Michigan’s tart cherry industry. While netting remains an expensive investment, Wunsch would consider it if it prevented fruit cracking, brown rot, and advanced ripening.

According to MSU specialist Nikki Rothwell, netting is currently too costly for most Michigan cherry growers. However, as fresh-market plantings become more profitable, growers may find it a worthwhile investment. Lindell aims to conduct a detailed economic analysis soon.

Read full article: Good Fruit Grower

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