Goldenrod growing a tree bed

Guarding Your Tree Bed Native Plant Garden from Pets and Pedestrians

Protecting your tree bed plants from damage is essential. Tree guards and other measures can significantly increase your garden's chances of success.

If you decide to install a tree guard yourself or using a professional without going through NYC Parks Tree Time, you should fill out this permit for doing work around your tree.

Metal Tree Guards

Tree Time, a program provided by the New York City Parks Department, will install a metal tree guard around your tree bed for a donation between $863 and $1531, depending on the size and style of the tree guard.


Photo credit Curb Allure

DIY Metal Tree Guards

Curb Allure's modular, aluminum tree guards allow customers to do the installation themselves (if they want to). You can get a 3 x 3 foot, 3.5 sided guard for just under $600.


Photo credit City Tree Guards

Tree Guards from Recycled Plastic

City Tree Guards provides durable, resilient and environmentally friendly tree guards made of recycled plastic. Their services typically cost between $800 and $1200.


Photo credit Big Reuse

Wooden Tree Guards

Big Reuse is now offering kits for custom-sized wooden tree guards for $275, and also providing free tool kit rentals that include all of the tools needed for installation. To take advantage of this opportunity, you must live within the program's pilot area.

DIY Wooden Guards

For those with carpentry skills, wooden guards offer a customizable and affordable option. These guards can be built using pressure-treated wood or reclaimed materials and provide solid protection with a natural aesthetic.

Prefabricated Fencing

Prefabricated fencing is a cost-effective alternative for quick installation. These lightweight fences provide basic protection and can be easily replaced or upgraded later. These are two options you can get on Amazon.


Diagram by NYC Parks Department

DIY Plank & Rope Tree Guard

If you’re looking for a truly budget-friendly option, follow this design from NYC Parks, which uses wooden planks and nylon rope to create a low-cost guard. While not as durable as iron or wooden guards, it can still keep most pets and pedestrians at bay.

Protective Webbing

Even with a guard, pets may jump over it to get into your garden. Adding a simple web of twine across the top of your tree bed is an inexpensive and effective solution. Just weave the twine in a crisscross pattern to discourage animals from entering.


Photo credit New York City Tree Pit Services

Keeping Rats Out

Unfortunately, above-ground measures are not enough to keep rats from damaging your plants by burrowing in your tree pit. New York City Tree Pit Services can install undergound steel mesh that will keep rodents out and make sure that your plants stay safe.

Friendly Signage

A sign can help educate pedestrians and pet owners about your garden and discourage any activities that could result in damaged plants or compacted soil.

Keep your plants safe!

By choosing the right tree guard and adding thoughtful touches like a protective web and signage, you can safeguard your garden and enjoy watching it flourish for years to come.