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
20 Oct 2025
The OPTIMISTII project, led by INRAE, offers an innovative biological approach to tackle Drosophila suzukii in European cherry orchards by combining male sterilization techniques to reduce pest reproduction and minimize the use of chemical pesticides in fruit production.
17 Jun 2024
In situ measurements were conducted in a sweet cherry orchard at the IONIA Sweet Cherry Farm, Ficksburg, South Africa. The study estimated evapotranspiration by combining a simple surface energy balance model with remote sensing data.
16 Jan 2026
B.J. Thurlby, who passed away at age 60, led the Washington State Fruit Commission for over 25 years. As a true ambassador for Northwest cherries, he championed research, exports and grower education, leaving a deep mark on the U.S. and international fruit industry.
16 Jan 2026
Frutas de Chile has revised its 2025/26 cherry export forecast down by 15% due to adverse weather, with shipments expected to reach 110 million boxes. To support sales, the Cherry Ice and Snow Festival launches in China, blending cherries, lifestyle and Lunar New Year culture.
