Orange and lemon trees in danger?

[Usedtowanna]

We're planning a chicken/duck run but we have a young orange and young lemon tree in the area we want it. Is it possible that the birds will eat the leaves and blossoms?

 

[MillersFarm]

I'd keep an eye on the tree... But i dont think you have much to worry about.. In-fact the chickens may help keep some nasty bugs off from it like those emerald beetles.. But if you do see them pecking at the leaves you could just put a fence around it

 

[Usedtowanna]

I'd keep an eye on the tree... But i dont think you have much to worry about.. In-fact the chickens may help keep some nasty bugs off from it like those emerald beetles.. But if you do see them pecking at the leaves you could just put a fence around it

Thank you! I do hope they leave them alone because it really is the perfect spot for the run. Good idea about the fence, too. Guess it will be a non issue either way.

 

[aart]

How are you going to cover your run for predator safety if there are trees in it?

I'd definitely circle your young trees with 14ga 2x4 fencing mesh cylinders 2-3' high to keep them from scratching at the roots, that is most often how birds kill plants rather than eating them. The bird flying up into the tree might be a problem too.
Their droppings can also cause plant death with the very high nitrogen content.

 

[toomuch]

I recommend you to protect the trees roots and try to get a tall tree. I once planted a 4 foot tree and they destroyed it.