DIY fruit picker
Making a DIY fruit picker using a plastic bottle is a creative and cost-effective way to harvest fruits that are out of reach. Here's a simple guide on how you can create one:
Materials Needed:
- Plastic bottle (2-liter soda bottle works well)
- Wooden stick or pole (long enough to reach the height of the fruit)
- Sharp knife or scissors
- Strong tape or glue
- Wire or string
Steps to Make a DIY Fruit Picker:
Prepare the Bottle: Start by cleaning and drying the plastic bottle thoroughly. Remove any labels or stickers from the bottle.
Cutting the Bottle: Use a sharp knife or scissors to carefully cut the bottom part of the plastic bottle. Aim to create a wide opening at the bottom of the bottle.
Attaching the Handle: Take the wooden stick or pole and insert it into the opening of the bottle. The stick should fit snugly into the bottle. Use strong tape or glue to secure the bottle to the stick. Ensure that the connection is firm and stable.
Creating Grips: To enhance grip and stability, you can wrap the handle of the stick with tape or add some rubber padding.
Adding Support: Use wire or string to create a net-like structure inside the bottle. This will help in catching the fruits when they are picked.
How to Use the DIY Fruit Picker:
Positioning: Position the fruit picker beneath the fruit you want to harvest. Ensure that the fruit is directly above the bottle opening.
Picking the Fruit: Gently pull or twist the fruit to detach it from the branch. The fruit should fall into the bottle due to the supporting net inside.
Collecting Fruits: Once the fruit is picked, carefully remove the picker from under the tree. Check inside the bottle to collect the harvested fruits.
Tips for Best Results:
- Choose a sturdy and long stick or pole to ensure you can reach higher branches.
- Be gentle when picking fruits to avoid damaging them or the tree.
- Empty the bottle regularly to avoid overloading it with fruits.
This DIY fruit picker is a practical solution for harvesting fruits from tall trees without the need for expensive equipment. Adjust the size and design based on the type of fruit you intend to pick and the height of the tree. Happy harvesting!