How can I keep Deer out of my Garden?
- Start Thinking Ahead to Spring
The calendar says it is February, but gardening enthusiasts have already begun planning for spring. Seeds are being ordered, grow lights are being tested and garden centers will have a run on grow pots. Every gardener wants to improve upon last year’s results. Many will try to new strategies to protect against the pest that drove them crazy the previous year.
- Identify Deer Damage
A big pest is the deer that come to browse in your yard. These beautiful creatures have now become a nuisance and your hard work and planning will have been in vain! If you are suspicious, but have not actually seen the deer snacking, footprints and droppings are a sure sign that they have been in your yard. Also, typical signs of deer damage are plants with ripped or jagged edges leaves and tree bark with score marks. An adult deer eats 6-10 pounds of greenery per day so you will need a definite plan to keep the deer out of the garden.
- Find a Plan to Repel Deer that Works for you
Try one or a combination of strategies to discourage the deer:
- A fence is a sure way to keep them out, but costly and may take away from the natural beauty of your property.
- Deer resistant plants can be planted around the plants that the deer are targeting. For example: plants with furred leaves or spines and that have a strong smell will be less appealing to them.
- Surround your garden with herbs with a strong scent which will mask the aroma of your annuals.
- Repellents are another way to deter deer. Because deer have such a keen sense of smell repellents can be very effective. Just as the wonderful smell of your flower garden attracts, repellents can do the opposite with odoriferous ingredients.