21st July 2022 | Updated 30th October 2024
With a variety of tree guards available, you might be wondering which ones are the best for you and the environment.
Tree guards are invaluable in helping to protect your seedlings and small plants from the elements, as well as small animals, giving them the best start in life. But with a variety of tree-guards on the market, which is best for your purpose?
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Plastic sleeve tree guards create a microenvironment for the plant and can reduce damage inflicted by the elements (including UV). These guards may protect plants from smaller animals, however larger herbivores such as wallabies are still able to access the plant. While these tree guards are reusable, they are not recyclable and are a source of microplastic pollution. They require three stakes for each guard. |
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Mesh tree guards are cost effective and can be reused many times. They are also very effective in keeping out rabbits, wallabies, and other small animals. Mesh guards are available in pre-cut or on a roll where they can be cut to size. A mesh guard is a good choice for planting in locations prone to high winds. You will need two stakes or posts for each guard. |
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Milk carton style (and other similar containers made of cardboard only) make excellent tree guards. They are completely biodegradable, and will usually break down into the soil within 6-12 months due to rain and sun exposure. This means there's no need to remove the guards. You will need one stake for each guard. |
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Corflute tree guards are used widely by Landcare groups, roadside tree planting, river and stream bank planting and various other projects. They are made from rigid plastic, specifically designed to protect and encourage growth in new plants, whilst sheltering from wind damage and browsing animals. These guards can be reused (weather dependent) but are not recyclable in Tasmania. As they break down they become a source of microplastic pollution. They require one stake for each guard.
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New Biodegradable rigid tree guards are now on the market. These designs offer an alternative to corflute guards for revegetation; however they block a significant amount of light from reaching the plant. They offer some protection against browsing however a determined animal will eat through the carboard. They can also trap growing plants as they fold and contort in wet conditions. They are therefore suited to dry conditions with minimal wallaby and wombat grazing. They are biodegradable and contain zero plastic content.
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New Biodegradable sleeve guards have been tested with success levels similar to the classic corflute. They are made from a biodegradable or sometimes compostable material. Much like the plastic sleeve guards, they offer minimal browsing protection from larger animals. You will need three hardwood stakes for each guard. |
Additionally, if your planting site is in an area with Bennetts Wallabies or Kangaroos it is recommended that you consider using taller guards. The standard sized tree guard is generally not tall enough to prevent these animals from accessing your plants.
This table has been designed to help Landcarers with an at-a-glance summary of some of the tree guard types available on the market.
Do you have experience with the pros and cons of different types of tree guards? Let us know.
