Which Plant Guard Do I Need?

A practical guide to choosing the right protection for your planting project

Successful planting doesn’t end when the tree goes in the ground. In New Zealand’s diverse conditions, from exposed rural sites to urban streetscapes, young plants need protection from wind, pests, herbicide spray and mowing damage to establish well.

At Advance Landscape Systems, we’ve spent over 30 years supporting landscapers, councils, contractors and landowners with proven plant protection systems. As New Zealand’s preferred choice for landscaping, revegetation and environmental solutions, we understand that choosing the right guard can dramatically increase survival rates and reduce maintenance costs.

So, which plant guard do you need?

 

For Large-Scale Native Revegetation (Cost-Effective & Fast Installation) 

CombiGuard™ – Low Cost, Proven Performer

If you’re planting at scale and need a reliable, economical solution, CombiGuard™ is a go-to option.

Best for:

• Large revegetation projects
• Sites requiring herbicide and animal protection

Why choose it:

• Protects against browsing animals and spray drift
• Promotes faster growth and higher survival rates
• Enables use of smaller, lower-cost plants
• Includes sleeve, mulch mat and bamboo canes
• Recyclable through our Plant Guard to Post scheme

CombiGuard™ is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect young natives during their most vulnerable stage.

 

For Extra Strength in Tough Conditions

TriGuard™ – Double Wall Strength

When wind exposure or harsher environments are a factor, TriGuard™ offers additional durability with its twin-wall sleeve.

Best for:

• Exposed planting sites
• Areas with strong wind
• Projects needing higher survival assurance

It creates a protective microclimate that reduces desiccation, frost impact and animal damage – helping plants establish faster and stronger. Recyclable through our Plant Guard to Post programme.

 

For a Fully Biodegradable Option

FiberGuard™ – 100% Biodegradable

Looking for an earth-friendly alternative to plastic guards?

FiberGuard™ is made from recycled fibre board and biodegrades over time, eliminating the need for removal. The FiberGuard 2.0 comes pre-assembled for faster installation.

Best for:

• Environmentally sensitive areas
• Restoration projects
• Clients prioritising sustainability
• 100% biodegradable

It provides natural protection from animals, herbicides and harsh elements, while creating a beneficial microclimate around the plant.

At Advance Landscape Systems, sustainability is at the core of what we do – from biodegradable products to our plastic recycling scheme.

 

For Vineyard Applications

VineGuard – Reusable and Recyclable

For young vines, targeted spray and browsing protection is essential.

Best for:

• Vineyards
• Commercial growers

These guards:

• Protect from herbicide spray
• Encourage strong leader growth
• Provide ideal light and airflow conditions
• Recyclable through our Plant Guard to Post programme

 

For Protection from Line Trimmers & Mowers

Mesh Trunk Guard

In urban landscapes or lifestyle properties, mechanical damage is often the biggest threat.

Mesh Trunk Guards:

• Protect against ringbarking
• Expand as the tree grows
• Recyclable through our Plant Guard to Post programme

Perfect for street trees and residential gardens.

 

 

Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing

To select the right guard, consider:

1. What animals are present? Rabbits? Hares? Sheep? Cattle?
2. Is wind exposure high?
3. Will herbicides be used nearby?
4. Is sustainability a key driver?
5. Is this a large-scale commercial project or a small planting?
6. Do guards need to be removed later – or biodegrade naturally?

Take a look at our helpful Plant Guard Comparison Chart.

 

Why the Right Guard Matters

The right plant protection:

• Greatly increases plant survival rates
• Reduces maintenance and replacement costs
• Encourages faster, stronger growth
• Supports healthier ecosystems

As our mission states, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that restore the environment and re-establish nature.

 

Still Not Sure?

With New Zealand’s wide range of climate and topography, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Our team works with councils, landscapers, growers and land developers nationwide to tailor recommendations to each project’s specific conditions.

Call us on 0800 600 789

[email protected]

Protect. Nurture. Sustain.

Give your plants the best possible start.