Keep Deer Away From Gardens
Posted on April 12 2018
White-tailed deer are smart, but stubborn animals; and as such, they will continue to go to a growing area, if gardeners allow them to visit. To stop deer damage this spring, gardeners need to act now on deer management strategies.
Here are three things gardeners need to do to rid deer from gardens this spring:
1. Build deer fence
Here's the truth, a deer fence is a must. To be effective, a deer fence needs to be 7.5-8' feet high and be the right material and strength grade. For gardeners with light deer pressure, a plastic deer fence is suitable in the garden. However, for gardeners dealing with chewing animals - deer, rabbits, squirrels, ground hogs - then a metal deer fence is a better fit. The PVC-coating on the steel fence will prevent chew marks from cutting into the metal fence material.
Building deer fence is easy and can be done in just a few days.
2. Plant Deer-Resistant Flowers
Plants for deer-resistance are used as a secondary barrier to keep deer at bay. Deer that try to eat deer-resistant plants will be unsatisfied and leave after a few bites. This is because they simply do not like the taste or smell! They, like us, can be picky eaters.
Plants to keep deer away include: Asters, daffodils, lavender, marigolds, garlic, pepper, oregano, basil and thyme.
3. Apply Granular or Liquid Deer Repellents
Deer Repellent formulas usually include herbs that deer do not enjoy eating, such as pepper and garlic. Deer Repellents should be used as a third barrier to rid deer from lawns and gardens. The formulas will need to be re-applied after heavy rain, extreme heat exposure or snow. The repellents for deer control are less effective after 30-60 days, as well.
