Hi Steemit Gardeners!
Deer sure are beautiful and there's nothing much cooler than seeing a deer up close and personal in your yard…unless they are munching your garden to bits.
You didn't put in all that hard work for nature to come and eat, digest and poop it out right in front of you.
If you're looking for simple solutions, here are five suggestions that can help, aside from moving into the city.
Photo Credit: DebWatson, Pixabay
1. Physical Barriers
This may sound obvious (and it is), but deer fences do work. Make sure your deer fence is at least 7 - 8 feet high on level ground, and 10 - 11 feet high on sloped ground to prevent them from jumping down the slope.
It is also important to put fencing around trees that deer may rub their antlers on.
If you don't want the trouble and cost of putting up a fence, try a nylon protective mesh that covers your shrubs and plants. They won't be able to chew through the mesh to get to your plants.
2. Plant Undesirables
Deer don't particularly like cedars, boxwood, mint, thyme, chives, garlic, onions, rosemary, sage and dill. This list is not exhaustive, but it's a good place to start if you are having trouble with deer in your garden.
They also don't like fuzzy-leafed plants like lamb's ear. There are certain textures that just aren't cool to chew on. Plant these strategically in front of a garden, much like a blockade that deer can't cross.
3. Strong Smells
Hang a few bars of super strong deodorant soap around your garden. Some people says this really helps keep the deer away. If you can stand the smell, it's worth a try and doesn't cost too much.
4. Sprinkler Scare
Buy a sprinkler head that is mounted onto a motion detector that will send a spray their way whenever deer get too close.
5. A Garden of Their Own
Some gardeners have tried this with rabbits and it works. Plant a small salad buffet garden at the other end of your property where wildlife can munch. Separate this with a physical barrier from the main part of your property if you can.
If you practice keeping deer out of your garden and give them access to a separate, hidden garden of their own, you might be able to keep them at bay. If it doesn't work for deer, it should do the trick for smaller wildlife who also like to visit your garden for three square meals a day.
These are just a few suggestions that have worked for gardeners. There are plenty more out there--some that work and some that don't.
Best to you and happy gardening!