What physical method is recommended for protecting small, newly established asters from burrowing damage?
Answer
Caging using chicken wire or mesh buried at least six inches deep.
When protecting vulnerable, newly planted asters, physical exclusion methods are highly recommended until the plants are hardy enough to tolerate minor disturbances. The most robust physical barrier recommended is caging, utilizing chicken wire or mesh structures placed over the area. Crucially, the effectiveness of this method relies on ensuring that the edges of the cage or fencing are buried at least six inches into the ground. This depth is necessary to actively deter the squirrels from their characteristic burrowing behavior aimed at investigating or caching food beneath the soil surface.
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