Arborvitae are one of the most popular privacy trees in the Northeast — and one of the most commonly damaged by deer in winter. This guide covers everything you need to know to get your trees protected before deer season peaks.
Why Winter Is the Critical Window
Deer damage to arborvitae is heavily concentrated between late October and early April, with the highest-risk period being December through February. Once snow covers the ground, deer shift heavily to evergreens, and arborvitae — soft, fragrant, and accessible — are a top target.
The important thing to understand: arborvitae don't regrow stripped branches. Once the foliage is gone from a section of branch, that branch stays bare permanently. Protection before the first major snowfall is the goal.
Step 1: Assess Your Trees
Walk your property before installing anything and note:
• Height of each tree — determines which product you need
• Diameter at the widest point — important for wraps and covers
• Whether trees are in a row or isolated — rows may be better served by bulk netting rolls
• Past damage history — if specific trees have been hit before, those are your priority
Step 2: Choose the Right Product
For individual arborvitae up to 10' tall: The Deer-Terrent Arborvitae Netting Wrap is the fastest solution. Each wrap is 5.5' high x 18' long — enough to fully encircle one arborvitae up to 5' in diameter. Three pre-attached cords with snap hooks make installation a one-person job in minutes.
For rows of arborvitae: The 60" x 330' Landscaper Bulk Roll covers an entire hedgerow — 120 to 150 linear feet. Cut to length with scissors and secure with the included twist ties.
For shorter arborvitae under 5' tall and wide shrubs: The plant netting covers (6x6', 8x8', or 10x10') work for more compact trees as well as rounded shrubs, rhododendrons, hollies, and boxwoods.
Step 3: Install Before the Ground Freezes
The ideal installation window is mid-October to mid-November — after the tree has stopped active growth for the season but before heavy deer pressure begins.
For arborvitae wraps:
• Unroll the netting alongside the tree
• Wrap it around the trunk and lower branches, starting at ground level
• Attach the three snap-hook cords at the top to cinch the wrap closed
• Secure the base loosely with a twist tie — snug but not tight against the bark
For bulk rolls (hedgerows):
• Unroll along the length of the hedge
• Starting at one end, wrap the netting around the first tree and attach with twist ties at two or three heights
• Continue down the row, wrapping around each tree in sequence
• Cut and secure at the end
Step 4: Remove in Spring
Remove the netting in April when consistent grazing pressure from deer drops off. The netting folds compactly for storage. Most Deer-Terrent customers get 5 or more seasons from a single set of wraps or covers.
Common Questions
Will the netting harm my trees? No. The polypropylene netting is lightweight and breathable — it won't restrict growth, block sunlight meaningfully, or damage branches. It's been tested continuously on plants for 18+ months with no negative effects.
What if deer push against it? The netting is strong enough that a deer cannot bite through it or push through it to reach foliage. They'll typically investigate briefly and move on to an easier food source.
Can I leave it on year-round? You can, though removing it in spring lets the tree breathe freely through the growing season and extends the netting's lifespan.
Order Before October
Stock runs low by mid-fall as the season picks up. If you're ordering for a full hedgerow or multiple trees, order in September to ensure availability. Free shipping when ordering more than one product.
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