Winter

• In the winter, rodents will be attracted to a cherry tree's bark. Cherry trees, like other fruit trees, have thinner bark than other trees. It makes it easier for rodents to chew through it to get the cambium layer underneath. Mice, voles, squirrels, and porcupines are just a few rodents that will seek out cherry trees. If they chew through enough of the bark, they will kill the tree. Protect your cherry trees by encircling them with 1/4-inch wire mesh. The mesh should extend at least 3 inches below and 18 to 24 inches above the ground level.
  
  

Spring

• In the spring, squirrels are often attracted the cherry tree's blossoms. They often eat the ovaries of cherry blossoms, which prevent cherries from forming. Exclusion might be possible by placing a 2-foot-wide metal collar around the tree. The collar should be set 6 feet from the ground to prevent squirrels from jumping over it. This assumes that the tree is isolated and the squirrels won't use other trees, roofs, or electrical lines to access it. Commercial taste repellents can be sprayed on the tree, but won't be effective if the squirrels are really hungry. Your best option is to set out a ground feeder filled with corn and peanuts. A squirrel won't work for food if it is easily available.
  
  

Summer/Fall

• As the fruit ripens, you may find birds more of a pest than rodents. But rats and mice have been known to climb trees to steal the fruit, especially for sweet-tasting varieties. These rats may be living in the area or just traveling through. Clean up any fruit that falls to the ground to prevent new rodents from moving in to be close to the food source and use preventative techniques to help reduce the problem.
  
  

Prevention

• To help prevent rodent problems, install a birdhouse or platform to encourage barn owls or hawks. Barn owls are excellent rat killers and can kill several hundred rats each year. Good sanitation also helps, especially if you eliminate any possible burrow sites. Rats and mice will only travel about 150 feet from their homes in search of food. Get rid of any brush piles and clutter around your yard. Trim bushes so they are about 6 inches from the ground and elevate wood piles.