If you’re a gardener, you’re probably interested to know the most effective ways to keep your plants and veg safe and sound. One way to do so is by using a fruit cage.
Buy why a fruit cage?
A fruit cage is simply a wire enclosure that protects your plants from animals and pests. There are many different types of fruit cages, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a quick run-down of the most popular types:
Aluminium Fruit Cages
The best type of fruit cage, in our opinion, is the aluminium variety. Aluminium fruit cages are strong, lightweight and won’t rust over time. They’re also easy to assemble and take down, which is ideal if you need to move your cage around or store it away during the winter months.
The disadvantages of aluminium cages include the fact that they’re not as cheap as some of the other types on this list. They’re also not as sturdy as steel cages, so you’ll need to be careful in windy conditions.
Steel Fruit Cages
If you’re after a sturdier fruit cage than an aluminium one, then a steel cage is the way to go. Steel cages are much heavier and more expensive than their aluminium counterparts, but they’re also much more difficult for animals to break into.
Another downside of steel cages is that they’re more difficult to assemble, and they’re not as easy to move around as aluminium cages. They also rust over time, so you’ll need to make sure you keep them well-coated with rust-resistant paint.
Timber Fruit Cages
Timber fruit cages are the cheapest type of cage on this list, but they’re also the least durable. Timber cages are easy to assemble and take down, but they’re not as strong as steel or aluminium cages.
They’re also not as effective at keeping animals out, as many animals can simply chew through the wood. If you do choose a timber fruit cage, make sure you select a hardwood variety that’s been treated with an animal-resistant coating.
Low Fruit Cages
Low fruit cages are ideal if you’re growing plants that don’t need a lot of height, such as strawberries. Low cages are also easier to access than taller ones, which can be beneficial if you have back problems or are simply short on stature!
The main disadvantage of low fruit cages is that they don’t provide as much protection against animals in taller cages. They’re also more likely to blow over in strong winds, so make sure you secure them well to the ground.
Strawberry Cages
Finally, strawberry fruit cages are becoming increasingly popular, as they’re specifically designed to protect delicate strawberry plants. Strawberry cages are usually low and made from plastic or aluminium mesh, which makes them light and easy to move around.
The main disadvantage of strawberry cages is that they’re not suitable for other types of fruit or veg. They’re also more expensive than some of the other types of cages on this list.
Choosing Your Cage
Whichever cage type you choose, ensure you measure your plants before buying, as some cages can be too small or too large for certain types of fruit and veg.
As we say, aluminium fruit cages are the best all-around option, but steel cages are more durable, and timber cages are the cheapest. Ultimately, the type of cage you choose will depend on your budget and the needs of your plants.
We hope this article has helped guide you toward the right fruit cage for your garden!