Re-cycling Tree Gaurds

Re-using redundant plastic tree gaurds

In officially planted woods, like this one, near Exeter; far too many trees are planted, far too close together and all have an expensive tree guard to protect them, regardless of whether they actually need one or not.

 This woods was planted approximately 20 years ago, in fact I remember it being planted.  As you can see; only the biggest, toughest trees are still living, all the others have been smothered out by the faster growing trees, in the race for canopy supremacy.  As can be seen here; the woodland floor is randomly littered with redundant tree guards, lying where their trees used to be, before they died and rotted away.  Some are propped up by the last remains of their trees, most just lie, as if they are fallen branches. 
There are thousands here.

 I have learnt that certain trees, like Oak and hawthorn are very resistant to having their bark eaten and seldom need a guard.  The trees I have found the most vulnerable are Beech and Birch.
2 ways I combat this problem, with out having to use a tree guard; are to plant the trees in something Spiky, such as Gorse, Bramble or Reeds. Or plant something spiky with them, when you plant them, like a Dog rose.
So, I only use tree guards, where no natural protection exists in their new environment, or if a tree begins to be attacked, by some unknown bark eating creature, but I prefer to use natural methods, where I can.