By: Trecia E. Neal
This article includes some of the most effective ways to repel deer on your property.
The problem of deer in urban areas is a real one. There are numerous reasons that deer roam our neighborhoods unabated, mowing down plants in their paths, but that is beyond the scope of this article.
The Best Offense is a Great Defense!
Deer will probably try any plant at least once to see if it is tasty. If they like the plant, they will remember where it is located and return for more. One of the great things about native plants is that they evolved with deer pressure. When deer nibble on natives, it is like pruning a plant; it will come back, usually even sturdier. The trick is keeping deer from decimating your plants, which can be accomplished in several ways.
1) Offer a variety of native plants for deer to choose from.
2) Plant deer-deterrent plants around your “good” plants. Deer don’t like plants with a strong aroma or a prickly texture. Native grasses and sedges are great choices, and herbs are also effective.
3)Use a combination of the following methods. The best thing is to deter the deer from entering your property. This may involve fencing or redirecting them from the path they take.
Sonic repellant: Sonic Deer Repellant
Deer Spray: Deer spray
This is the highest-rated spray I could find. It might be worth buying and using it on plants around the pool and deck area, as they are easier to access.
The following items are available at most hardware stores. These links provide examples of these items.
Electric fencing:
Wiring: Tractor Supply
Posts: Tractor Supply
Charger: Tractor Supply
Great article on specifics of electric fencing for deer barriers: Deer Fencing Principles