7 Types of Tree Guards Explained

If you have trees that you want to protect from equipment, weather or animal damage, there are a number of tree guards that you can install that can help. Different types of tree guards are effective at protecting a tree from various types of threat. This article will discuss the types of available tree guards and how they are used.

Plastic Base Guard Tubes

The most popular type of tree gods are the plastic types of guard to that are installed around the base of a tree. These simple tree guards usually have plastic latches or connectors that allow them to be easily installed. They are effective at providing protection against small animals or rodents. However, they don't offer much in the way of protection from the elements.

Spiral Guards

Spiral tree guards are very similar to plastic base guard tubes. However, these types of the guards are usually wrapped around the base of the tree. Generally speaking they are taller in height than base guards and provide the same type of protection.

Paper Wrap

Heavy commercial paper wrap is also a popular option for protecting trees from some types of inclement weather. Generally speaking, these types of tree guards are used to help protect the base of a tree and its root system from cold weather. However, they can also be effective in repelling certain types of insects or rodents. In some cases, the paper wrap tree guards are treated with a special type of eco-friendly chemical that repels insects and rodents.

Burlap

Burlap is a material that has been used as tree guard fabric for many years. Although, it won't protect a tree from severe weather or cold, it is effective at providing some warmth protection for the tree. Also, some types of pests and rodents find burlap to be very irritating to their nose and eyes and will avoid the material if it is wrapped around the base of the tree.

Field Tiles

Field tiles are a type of plastic sleeve that is usually used to wrap or protect other types of pipe. However, in recent years, many orchard growers and tree farmers have adapted them for use as tree guards. They are relatively inexpensive and can be cut to any length that is needed. They are easily installed and can be secured with nylon rope or a wire wrapping. Some types of field tile pipe coverings also come with latches or snaps that can be used instead of wrapping.

Metal Tree Guards

Some people choose to install metal tree guards on their trees. These types of tree guards are more decorative than they are functional. However, if designed correctly, they can be effective at repelling certain types of animals and rodents. Generally speaking, however, they are not effective at protecting a tree from the weather or insects.

Homemade Tree Guards

You can create your own very effective homemade tree guards by using a couple of 2 liter plastic soda bottles. For smaller trees, the plastic soda bottles can wrapped around the base of the tree and secured with wire or rope. The types of tree guards are effective against small rodents and pests.