Deer are often tempted by less than tasty shrubs and trees during the winter. During the warmer part of the season, they have enough food that they don’t bother your landscape, (not like your vegetable garden, right?).
There are many strategies to deter wildlife from chewing on your evergreens, some don’t work at all, but here are the best ones we’ve discovered.
1. Deer Off
We tested this spray on Daylilys and Hostas and found that deer would not graze on them for 2-3 weeks. It comes in a handy pump and spray bottle. Make sure to thoroughly wet the foliage. If you have rain frequently, you will have to re-apply.
2. Deer Fencing
This is the closest thing to a 100% Deer Proof option we know of. Deer fencing consists of black metal posts with a high strength mesh “fence” 8 feet tall between them. Deer simply can’t jump over this height of fence. You can install it along a wooded area and it’s almost invisible due to it’s color. Try to spot the fencing in the picture!
3. Plants that Deer Dislike
We have a portfolio of deer resistant plants that we can specify for your landscape based on the amount of sun you have. Some that are deer resistant are Barberry, Mahonia, Lavender, and Rosemary. Read more about deer resistant plants in our Deer Proof Plants post.
4. Dogs
Having a dog alone can virtually eliminate deer being in the yard, especially if the dog can get outside through a doggy door. Dogs are natural hunters and at least enjoy barking at a deer if they are in the yard. The smell of doggy doo and urine is also a deterrent.
The Washington Post had a good article relating to deer proofing your yard. Read that HERE.