Gardening
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How to Make a DIY Gopher Basket for Fruit Trees

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Mar 3, 2026, 05:54 PM
Orange fruit tree
Photo: Unsplash - Max

About This Resource

This article provides a comprehensive guide on creating a DIY gopher basket to protect fruit trees from gopher damage. It explains what a gopher basket is, the types of trees most susceptible to gopher attacks, and the signs of gopher damage. The author compares the effectiveness of hardware cloth versus chicken wire for making these baskets, discussing their pros and cons in terms of cost, durability, and root restriction. The article emphasizes the importance of using hardware cloth for better protection against gophers, especially for vulnerable fruit trees like figs, apples, and avocados. Readers will learn practical steps to construct their own gopher baskets, ensuring the health and longevity of their fruit trees.

Key takeaways

What to know before you act on this, from the SteadScape editors.

  • Use 1/2 inch hardware cloth for your gopher baskets to ensure maximum protection against gophers and other pests.
  • Plan to construct gopher baskets in early spring, at least 2 weeks before planting your fruit trees to allow for proper setup.
  • Budget around $50 for a roll of hardware cloth, which can create multiple baskets depending on your tree planting needs.
  • When planting, ensure the gopher basket is at least 12 inches deep to accommodate the root systems of young fruit trees.
  • Avoid using chicken wire for gopher baskets, as it can be chewed through by determined gophers, leading to potential tree loss.
Best for
Beginners with young fruit trees; prepare baskets in early spring before planting.
Pairs with
Garden Planner for your zone and frost dates.

Source Information

Domain: homesteadandchill.com

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