Tubex has unveiled a range of improvements to its Nature biodegradable tree shelters, which incorporate learnings from several seasons of in-field usage and the manufacturer’s long-term partnership with Wageningen University.
Available now for the 2024/5 planting season, the renewed Tubex Nature range features an improved formulation which increases lifetime up to 5 years without compromising biodegradability and increased robustness – meaning that shelters are less brittle, more flexible and thus more resilient to rough handling.
The updates also include increased strength around the zip-tie points to prevent tearing, a softer flared rim to for better protection against stem abrasion, and is available in standard shelter, shrub shelter, vole guard and wrap shelter formats.
Notably, biodegradable zip-ties are also now available with Tubex Nature shelters upon request.
“Our independent research with Wageningen University has been pivotal in developing the Tubex Nature range. This partnership continues to provide critical data on both ‘on soil’ and ‘in soil’ biodegradability, helping us to fine-tune the material balance and ensuring that our shelters degrade in real-world conditions,” said James Taylor, Commercial Director at Tubex.
Tubex Nature is the first biodegradable tree shelter to combine independently validated in and on soil biodegradability, with scale of manufacture and is bio-based and non-toxic, made from plant and vegetable sources.
Biodegradable tree shelters provide an alternative to Tubex’s recyclable tree shelters and are ideal for remote locations where collection at end-of-life is not practical.
James Taylor concluded: “With demand for biodegradable tree protection on the rise, it is vital that we integrate both independent research and end-user feedback into the Tubex Nature range. By focusing on both performance and sustainability, we’re delivering a product that meets the evolving needs of tree planters.”
