How to get rid of nuisance deer
Deer can be one of your lawn's worst enemies. Consider these tips to help prevent nuisance deer from taking over your yard.
Repellents
Certain odors and tastes can deter deer. Buy deer repellent or try one of these home remedies:
- Spray a 20/80 mixture of egg and water around the yard.
- Hang a bar of soap from a tree limb.
- Spread a mixture of hot sauce, liquid dish soap, garlic powder and water.
Be sure to apply repellents at least 24 hours before expected precipitation. Spray mixtures to heights of at least six feet and reapply every 30 days.
Scare Tactics
Try to frighten nuisance deer using motion-activated lights, loud noises or whistles, or scarecrows. Just be sure to keep your neighbors in mind.
Netting
Wrapping shrubs and flowerbeds in netting creates a barrier between the plants and the deer. Add tubing around tree trunks for protection, but be sure it's loose enough to allow tree growth.
Fencing
Building a fence can help keep nuisance deer at bay. Temporary electric fences can be cost effective and efficient for deterring deer.
If you're building a fence you'll want to make sure that it is at least 8 feet high and made of woven wire.
Deer resistant plants
If deer are a problem for you, another way to prevent your yard from becoming the neighborhood buffet is to use plants that deer find unappetizing. Deer are very selective grazers, so once they begin munching on these items, they will move on to the next location.
Before planting, confirm that the plants are a match for area by referencing the USDA Hardiness Zone Map.
Here are some suggestions for annuals:
- Dusty Miller
- Sunflower
- Forget-me-not
- Foxglove
- Dahlia
Here are some suggestions for perennials:
- Wormwood
- Yarrow
- Lavender
- Yucca
- Wood Hyacinth
If the deer are feasting on more than just the foliage, refer to this list for more ideas on what you can plant to help reduce damage. Before taking action you may want to review your local game laws or speak with fish and wildlife officials to verify the action you are considering is legal.
