To keep deer out of your garden effectively, consider using a combination of these proven strategies:
1. Install Deer Fencing
- Use a fence at least 7 to 8 feet tall, as deer can easily jump over shorter barriers. Thin-mesh wire fencing with small posts can minimize visual impact while providing strong protection.
- Double fencing works well: an outer fence about 4-5 feet tall combined with an inner fence spaced a few feet inside creates a confusing barrier deer avoid.
- Ensure the bottom edge is pegged to the ground to prevent deer from squeezing underneath
2. Use Deer Repellents
- Egg-based repellents like Deer Away, Bobbex, and Liquid Fence are among the most effective.
- Commercial sprays that emit scents deer dislike (such as those mimicking decaying animals) and taste repellents (like garlic-based) can deter deer from feeding on plants.
- Repellents may need to be reapplied regularly for best results
3. Employ Scare Tactics
- Motion-activated sprinklers that spray water when detecting movement effectively scare deer away. They work day and night if equipped with infrared sensors.
- Move sprinklers periodically to prevent deer from becoming accustomed.
- Other noise or visual scare devices tend to be less effective against habituated suburban deer
4. Use Physical Barriers and Plant Protection
- Netting individual plants or using wire cages can protect prized or vulnerable plants.
- Plant deer-resistant species or use companion planting with plants deer avoid.
- Maintain your landscape by trimming dense cover to reduce deer hiding spots and adding terraces or sunken beds to make the area less accessible
5. Create Natural Barriers
- Thick hedges such as boxwoods can act as visual and physical barriers.
- Adding levels, slopes, or obstacles like stacked wood can deter deer from entering
Combining these methods provides the best defense against deer damage. Fencing remains the most reliable, but repellents and motion-activated sprinklers add effective layers of protection without large structural changes
