To: North American Fruit Explorers <nafex@lists.ibiblio.org>
Subject: [NAFEX] Shade cloth on blueberries for bird protection
Date: Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:24:19 -0400
I am researching textiles for bird protection on my rabbiteye and
southern highbush berries. I do not like to use the stretchy black bird
netting as I have removed many snakes (dead and barely alive) and
fledgling birds from such netting. I think that it can be a menace to
wildlife.
So, I found some fine knit material that will keep birds away and is UV
resistant, but will reduce sunlight penetration by 30%. The bushes are
in full sun, now unshaded.
Question: If I use the material from mid June to the end of August will
my berries ripen properly? Will my fruits set for next year be
affected?