Seedling Protectors

Seedling protector tubes can reduce seedling damage from animal browsing and rubbing. Seedling protector tubes protect the plant allowing it to establish a root system. There are two kinds of tubes – solid and mess tubes. Solid tubes are used to help control damage done by mice and voles. Mess tubes are used to protect plant from animal browsing. Seedling protector tubes should be three to four feet in height. See Montana Plant Materials Technical Note MT-45 for the "Proper Installation, Maintenance, and Removal of Seedling Protector Tubes." Prevent tubes from falling over or being knocked over by securely staking tube (Bamboo stakes are generally not effective). Seedling protection is mainly for broadleaf species.

An alternative to seedling protector tubes is to use fencing around clumps of plantings. Provide seedling protection until the growing point exceeds the height of the browsing animals on the site (approximately two to six years). Refer to Montana Fencing - Code 382 practice standard and specification for guidelines on wildlife fencing.

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Last Modified: 11/19/2007