How to keep deer from eating plants | National Geographic 24

To deter deer from eating your plants, consider the following methods:

Use Deer-Resistant Plants: Choose plants that are less appealing to deer. They tend to avoid plants with strong scents or prickly textures.

Fencing: Install a tall fence around your garden or individual plants. Make it at least 8 feet high to prevent deer from jumping over. Alternatively, use double fences with space in between, as deer are less likely to jump into confined spaces.

Repellents: Apply commercial deer repellents to your plants. These often contain unpleasant scents or tastes that deter deer. Reapply after rain or as directed on the product.

Homemade Repellents: Create your own deer repellent by mixing ingredients like garlic, hot peppers, and soap with water. Spray this mixture on your plants. Remember to test a small area first to ensure it doesn't harm your plants.

Motion-Activated Devices: Install motion-activated devices that emit noise, light, or water when they detect movement. This startles deer and discourages them from approaching.

Scare Tactics: Use scare tactics like hanging aluminum foil strips, noise-making devices, or even placing scarecrows in your garden. Changing the location or appearance of these scare tactics periodically can enhance their effectiveness.

Plant Strategically: Place plants that deer dislike around those they find tasty. Deer may avoid areas with strongly scented or poisonous plants.

Remove Attractants: Keep deer attractants, such as fallen fruits, bird feed, and salt blocks, away from your garden. Deer are less likely to stay in an area without additional food sources.

Combining several of these methods may provide the most effective protection for your plants against deer browsing.