So, I just returned from our orchard of approximately 150 trees. We have now lost a total of 30 trees this year. The tree roots have been gnawed down to next to nothing and pull straight out of the ground.
Current prevention strategies: We have guards around the trunk and have pea gravel in about a 3ft circle surrounding the tree. We have also started trapping and have an owl box out but is yet to be inhabited.
The understory I have tried to mow only twice per year but wondering if I need to keep it much lower cut for some time?
I need help in a desperate way!
As I replant has anyone used mesh baskets around the roots?
Are there any safe ways to bait the rodents that won't negatively impact the bird population?
All your advice and nuclear options would be much appreciated. This loss has bummed me out in a major way.
Thanks,
adam
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 03/24/2018 11:13PM by Michael Phillips.