dgrooms:

The only way this is going to be easier is if you build a frame to support the netting. While you're at it why not cover it with a permanent screen, perhaps of half in galvanized hardware cloth. A tree that size won't be all that much of a job. The fruit will be worth it and think how happy your wife will be!!

I had a permanent frame over some trees one time and loved it. Just remember to consider your max snow load when you build the frame.

If you decide to go with a temporary netting, a frame of one inch sch40 PVC would be easy to slip netting over. Your netting would last longer, it won't be resting on the tree, and it would be easier to get inside to pick the fruit.

The Fruitnut

As a follow up, I'd use whatever diameter PVC would be flexible enough that the frame could be curved over the top of the tree. I think you could use different angled joints at places as needed. But a curved top would make pulling the net easy. The bottoms can just rest on the ground over a stake or piece of rebar.

The Fruitnut

Dgrooms, my suggestion for direct netting would be not to try going over the top, but rather around the perimeter. Then if there is still a small hole on the top, toss a smaller square net over it. The plastic c@%$ they sell as bird netting is a nightmare no matter how you use it. I've had much better luck with used fish net I found on Craigslist and Ebay. The permanant coverage suggested by Fruitnut is ideal, but probably unrealistic in Colorado due to snow. My preference for frame material is steel electrical conduit.

Thanks alot for your help. From the sounds of it, visual deterents don't seem that successful. I was hoping to avoid a frame as the tree is in my front yard, but I really want those cherries.
Thanks again