Fruit tree netting - best time to use? - Ask Extension
Hello - I spoke with a local veteran today who had a gardening question. He has a few fruit trees (cherry & apple). He bought fruit tree netting (...
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Fruit tree netting - best time to use? #934139
Asked June 04, 2026, 9:21 AM EDT
Hello - I spoke with a local veteran today who had a gardening question. He has a few fruit trees (cherry & apple). He bought fruit tree netting (see attached pictures) and is wondering when is the best time to put them on the trees? He read that bees can still pollinate through the netting, but after looking at the netting it doesn't seem like they would be able to. Maybe he bought the wrong kind? Any help and advice for him are appreciated. Thanks!
Iosco County Michigan
Expert Response
I don’t think bees would be able to get through this betting, but that’s a moot point because apples and cherries have been done blooming for weeks.
For apples netting use isn’t that common. Any time after June drop would probably be suitable, but it may need to be removed periodically for fungicide applications.
In cherries netting is usually put out 2-3 weeks before harvest (which is usually early July in Michigan, so mid June). This serves to deter birds and spotted wing drosophila.
