Protecting Peaches – Using A Net?

Q: Last year I noticed that my peaches were gone and the tree seemed to attract birds. My neighbor suggested that I put netting over the tree to prevent the birds from eating my fruit this year. Is this wise?

A: Netting will keep the birds at bay but be sure to check it each day for birds that have become trapped in the threads. Use small scissors to set them free. A bigger problem is squirrels. They will get under the netting and bite chunks out of each fruit about a week before they are ripe. I have no good solution for squirrels except a yappy backyard dog.