How To Keep Possums Away From Fruit Trees

How To Keep Possums Away From Fruit Trees

Just like all other pests, possums are also attracted to fruit trees in your garden. Possums are always on the lookout for food sources, and fruit trees can be the perfect spot for them to feast. Possums can cause a lot of damage to your fruit trees by chewing on the bark and feasting on your fruits. If you are trying to find how to keep possums away from fruit trees, you are in the right place. Possums may seem cute in the beginning, but they can be a nuisance when it comes to preserving your garden.

We know how much you love your garden, and how much hard work you put into maintaining it. This is why we want to help you protect your fruit trees from possums and keep them safe. We have put together some of the most effective ways to keep your fruit trees protected from possums. Let us take a look:

Keeping Possums Away From Fruit Trees

There are many ways of keeping possums away from your garden and your fruit trees. Listed below are some of the most foolproof ways:

  • Fencing: Creating a barrier between possums and your precious fruit trees is one of the best ways to protect them. A sturdy fence, ideally with a smooth surface that discourages climbing, can act as an effective deterrent. Consider installing a fence that stands at least 4 feet high, with the top section angled outward to prevent possums from scaling it. This measure not only protects your fruit trees but also preserves the harmony of your garden’s ecosystem.
  • Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Incorporate technology into your garden’s defence with motion-activated sprinklers. These devices, when triggered by movement, release a burst of water, startling possums without causing them harm. It’s an efficient way to remind these nocturnal visitors that your fruit trees are off-limits, ensuring they scamper away, leaving your harvest untouched.
  • Cover Your Fruit Trees: Netting or fruit tree covers offer a direct, physical barrier. By enveloping your trees in these protective sleeves, you safeguard the fruits of your labour from being a midnight snack. Ensure the covers are secured at the base to prevent possums from finding their way in from underneath.
  • Remove Food Sources: Possums are drawn to easy meals. By removing or securing potential food sources, such as pet food, fallen fruits, or accessible garbage bins, you significantly reduce the allure of your garden. A clean, well-maintained outdoor space sends a clear message: there’s nothing to feast on here.
  • Use Repellents: Natural or commercially available repellents can add an extra layer of protection. Whether it’s the scent of predator urine or a specially formulated spray, these substances can deter possums without causing them harm. Apply these around the base of your fruit trees and refresh them regularly, especially after rain.
  • Eradicate Hiding Spots: Possums seek shelter in dense foliage, underbrush, or hollowed logs. By keeping your garden tidy and eliminating these potential hiding spots, you make it less appealing for possums to settle in. Regular garden maintenance is key to keeping these marsupials at bay.
  • Use Traps: As a final measure, humane traps can be used to capture and relocate possums. It’s crucial to check local regulations regarding trapping and relocation, as these laws vary. Traps should be checked daily to prevent distress to the animal, and any captured possums should be handled with care and respect, ideally by professionals.

In conclusion, keeping possums away from your fruit trees requires a multifaceted approach that balances deterrence with respect for wildlife. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy the fruits of your labour, secure in the knowledge that your garden is a peaceful coexistence between human and nature. Engage with these methods to protect your harvest, ensuring that every visitor to your garden is a welcome one.

Expert Advice

In order to help you understand better how to keep possums away from fruit trees, we spoke to one of our possum removal experts.

Here’s what he said: “Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that possums are part of our ecosystem, so we aim for harmony rather than exclusion. A great starting point is to make your fruit trees less appealing. Netting is a fantastic method. Ensure it’s a wildlife-friendly type, though, to prevent any harm to the animals.”

We said: “Netting sounds practical. Any specific tips on how to use it effectively?”

Specialist: “Absolutely. When you drape the netting, keep it taut and secure it well. This prevents possums from accessing the fruits but also ensures they won’t get entangled. Another tip is to install a possum box in a distant part of your garden. It gives them a place to stay, diverting their attention from your trees. Minimise food temptations by cleaning up fallen fruits promptly. Also, consider using motion-activated lights or sprinklers. Possums are nocturnal and prefer darkness, so bright lights or sudden water sprays can discourage their visits.”

We hope that these insights helped you understand how you can protect your precious trees from these unwanted visitors.

Professional Help

If you are struggling with keeping possums at bay and protecting your garden, you can always seek professional help. At Instant Possum Removal, we provide top-notch possum removal services to help you effectively deal with these animals and get rid of them.

We use safe and humane traps and removal methods to ensure that we don’t harm the animal during the process. When you choose us for possum removal, you can rely on us to do the job with perfection and ease. We always make sure to cause minimal disruption to your schedule and offer easy booking options.

Our team of professionals is licensed and certified, so you can always trust us. Be it live possum removal or removing a carcass from your property, we have got you covered. Additionally, our experts will also help you possum-proof your garden and protect it from these unwanted visitors in the future. All you need to do is give us a call and we’ll be there!

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog post has been diligently fact-checked and written by Nicholas Willmore, an esteemed Australian expert in the pest control industry

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