Tree tubes can be used to protect shrubs during their establishment period so that the damage caused by deer browse is minimized and plant growth is not reduced. Three methods or options have been developed to hasten root establishment and to get the established shrub beyond the deer browse line.

1. 4 foot or 5 foot Vented O-style Tree Tubes. This option provides an extended period of deer browse protection and gets a portion of the plant established above the browse line. After 2-3 years remove the tree tube so that the shrub can grow, spread and sucker in true shrub habit. You may get a funny looking shrub for awhile, but in some cases it may be the only way to beat the deer!
2. 2.5 foot or 3 foot C-style Tree Tubes. In areas with less severe deer browse landowners can use shorter tubes that protect the plant long enough so that its root system is established. Customers have had success when 2.5 or 3 foot tubes were on for one full growing season and the subsequent winter, and then removed for the following growing season. Once the tube’s removed, the plant will spread and should grow faster than the deer can browse it. Also, weed control can be used to increase the plant’s success in establishing quickly.
3. Deer Guard Repellent + 2.5-3 foot C-style Tree Tubes. Many of our customers use this option because they a.) have budget restrictions so need to purchase a shorter tube and/or b.) desire a shrub with lower branches that are allowed to spread. Deer guard repellents provide supplemental protection of the plant when it’s outside the tube until the plants are completely established.