Tree guards
Have you ever wondered what happens to tree guards after their use? Sadly this scene is all too common, whether they are scattered on the ground or washed up on the beach. This photograph was taken on a beach on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, Northumberland.
Tree guards protect the tree by creating a physical barrier between the trees and browsing animals. It also helps to protect the bark from sun-related injuries. The best time to apply them is as soon as the tree is planted. This helps ensure that its protection starts from the moment it is planted.
Guards should be removed just before they split or open, and before they start to disintegrate. They will have done their job and will start to hamper the growth of the tree if left on. It is important to dispose of this plastic product appropriately to protect local wildlife, but sadly many are not.
Did you know that there are now companies that produce bio-degradable tree guards for purchase online? Companies such as Green-Tech are doing just that! Their Rainbow Treebio-biodegradable spiral guards for example are manufactured from 100% biodegradable materials (please see link for more information).
Maybe we should also be exploring new ways to re-use the tree guards that already exist?
How about using them to make a bug hotel.
