Dealing with Deer - Deer Free Landscapes
by Dan Eskelson on Dec 18, 2015
As with most pest problems related to our landscapes, when considering the problem of deer damage, it's better to consider concepts of "control" rather than strict programs of "eradication". Most natural pests are far more adapted to the earth's environment than us humans and can adapt to changing conditions rapidly. For these reasons, it's not realistic to believe we can achieve 100% control 100% of the time.
Successful control of deer damage to the landscape requires a combination of observation, study, cultural/physical/chemical controls, and a good attitude.
In most areas, deer will cause the greatest amount of damage to the landscape when natural food sources are scarce. In my area, we can count on deer returning to the gardens sometime in mid to late August, when some of their favored forest foods have dried up or been consumed. By understanding this timing, we're able to protect susceptible plants as needed or desired.
Deer will visit occasionally throughout the winter, nibbling on anything palatable, even sunflower seed hulls below our bird feeders. It's important to protect dormant stems of young shrubs and trees...deer browsing not only removes important tip growth but also leaves ragged, torn stems, inviting rot and disease.
The first flush of new growth in spring can bring very high levels of deer damage...after a long, lean winter, the succulent new growth of our pampered garden plants is extremely tempting. a few hungry deer can wipe out a susceptible garden overnight.
Your deer herd may have different habits...by understanding them, you'll be more prepared to protect your gardens.
Following are the control measures I use and recommend:
- Plant deer-resistant plants - note that a very hungry deer will eat almost anything (except, in my experience, barberry and potentilla) - but by using many *resistant* plants, we'll have less damage.
- Observe which plants are most susceptible to your region - some may be those listed as deer resistant. When browsing is most likely, be sure to use a repellant. Mixing the dry form is a bit of a hassle, it's more economical than the pre-mixed.
- For absolute control in larger areas, there is no substitute for an eight-foot high fence. We enclosed our vegetable garden with "deer fencing" made of heavy-duty black polypropylene - unlike metal fencing, it's very unobtrusive.
- To safeguard a single tree or shrub, use the above, or metal, fencing around the plant and stake the fence to the ground. When a tree grows to the stage where the lower branches are above browsing height (4-6 feet), remove the enclosure.
There have been numerous other techniques suggested for deer control including repellents made of human hair, coyote urine, bars of soap, rotten eggs, etc. Most of these are useful for just a short while until the effective odor is diluted by rain or irrigation. The product mentioned above seems to be able to retain its effectiveness. also, NOT TONIGHT DEER has proven effective.
So if you first observe and study the habits of your local deer population, you'll be able to apply specific techniques to greatly reduce deer damage. Don't forget to bring the right attitude to the effort - you won't have 100% success because our "cousins" in the animal world are amazingly adaptable and possess wisdom unavailable to us humans.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
87636 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
69727 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
69057 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
47757 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
28851 Views
Latest Articles
Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners
Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...
on Jan 25, 2024
Real Estate Development in Asian Cities
In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...
on Jan 25, 2024
Shower Envy: Elevating Your Bathroom with a Stunning Walk-In Shower
Are you tired of the same old routine in your bathroom? It might be time to consider a change, and one way to elevate your bathroom to a new level...
on Jan 22, 2024
Exploring Crowdfunding as an Innovative Approach to Real Estate Investment
The landscape of property selling has been transformed significantly due to the advent of property crowdfunding. This innovative approach,...
on Jan 10, 2024
The Rise of Co-Living Spaces in Asian Cities
Asia, home to 21 of the worlds 30 largest cities, is a significant player in the global economy, contributing 38% of the goods and services of the...
on Jan 5, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates
Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 263
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 200
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 115
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 112
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Top 4 Window Blind Styles
Blinds are important for a variety of reasons. Firstly, they stop light from flooding into your home. They also provide privacy and can even be...
How to Train Beautiful Flowering Shrubs into Unique Ornamental Trees
When the flowers finally start to appear in your garden you know spring is here. If you’re lucky you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh scents and...
Florida Local Builders Associations
Find a local builder or council, please contact the home builders' association (HBA) in your area.
Home Decor Ideas and Benefits of Aluminium Window Installations
Decorating a home is a rewarding experience when you are equipped with some knowledge before the process begins. One of the goals of home decor is...
Painting Walls is Simplest Updates
As with any painting project, preparation is crucial to achieving a high-quality result when painting wall stripes. Whether you are painting one...