Berry Netting: Off-Grid Aussie Reality Check

By Fiona Gallagher · permaculture designer · food, animals and preservation on 12 acres in Tassie

“After losing three hundred blackberries to possums in one night, I learned that standard netting leaves nothing for the birds or the soil.”

Netting Strategies That Actually Work

No point in growing berries if birds are eating them before you can. Here's how to do it right:

• Height is everything: Netting must be 1.5m+ above plants. Birds fly low. If it's lower, they'll just hop over. Done right, birds can't get near the fruit.
• Secure the edges: Don't just throw net over bushes. Anchor it to the ground with pegs or rocks. Flapping wind = easy access for birds.
• Use 15mm mesh: Anything bigger (like 30

  

  mm) and birds get through. 15mm stops them cold. Cheaper netting = more bird snacks.
• Install BEFORE flowering: Waiting until fruit appears? You're already losing half your crop to birds. Set it up when plants are young.

Bird Damage Prevention: No Bullshit Solutions

Birds are relentless. Netting is the only reliable fix. Forget scarecrows – they learn fast. Here's the truth:

• Netting > Scare tactics: Real farmers don't waste time on flapping plastic or fake owls. They net. Period.
• Check for tears weekly: After storms or heavy rain, birds find gaps. A 10cm tear = 50% crop loss. Fix it same day.
• Use heavy-duty netting: Cheap netting snaps in wind. Get UV-stabilised. It lasts 5+ years. Not worth the $50 saving.

Berry Varieties That Survive Aussie Birds

Not all berries play nice with netting. Stick to these proven performers:

• Raspberries (Heritage or Autumn Bliss): Grow tall. Netting works perfectly. Avoid summer fruiting types – birds love them.
• Blackcurrants (Rajka): Small fruit, birds can't get through the bush. Netting is easy.
• Strawberries (Alpine or Tristar): Grow low. Need netting 1m high. But worth it – no more "bird's feast" at harvest.
• Avoid: Blueberries (too bushy), Gooseberries (birds love them). Just don't bother.

Australian Suppliers & Pricing (indicative prices)

No point buying from overseas. Get it here, fast, no import hassles:

Final Word

Netting isn't optional. It's your only hope. Get the right mesh, install it properly, and you'll have berries without the bird buffet. Skip the cheap stuff. Pay for quality once. Save $500+ a year. Simple. Now go do it.

When to Call a Professional

While many off-grid projects are achievable as DIY, certain situations require licensed professionals:

• Electrical work beyond basic 12V DC additions — requires a licensed electrician
• Structural modifications to buildings or load-bearing elements
• Gas line installation or modification
• Solar array installations above safe voltage thresholds
• Any work that affects the structural integrity of your property

Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before commencing work.