![]() ![]() Today, I’d like to share all of the things I’ve learned and present a four step plan for building gorgeous, nearly deer proof gardens. The furry buggers seem to know exactly which plants are our favorites, don’t they? Over the last twenty years I’ve tended over 40 gardens as a professional horticulturist, and I’ve learned a lot about the ups and downs of gardening with deer in that time. Those of us familiar with the battle know how difficult it can be to have a beautiful garden in deer territory. Landing Zone: For added deterrents, add obstacles just inside the fence to make the deer reluctant to land there.Gardening with deer presents a unique set of challenges.Make sure gates are secure and as tall as the fence. Complete Enclosure: A fence only works if it completely encloses your garden! Blocking only the deer paths will just prompt them to learn new ways in.Mesh fencing comes in a variety of materials, including metal wire (most durable and most expensive), polyethylene-coated metal (expensive, but more attractive), and polypropylene (least expensive, less durable, but less visible). Mesh can also be attached to trees at the edge of the woods for a less noticeable appearance. To keep the mesh from sagging, run a taut wire at the top of the posts, and attach it to the mesh to support it. Mesh fencing: For larger areas, use 8’ mesh stretched between tall metal fence posts.Deer won’t jump it since they can’t see what’s on the other side. Privacy fencing: If appropriate and affordable, an 8’ tall privacy fence is probably the most effective choice.Another option is to add a second fence near your existing fence. This will add height without changing the look of your original fence. Modified Fence: If your garden already has a shorter fence that isn’t working, try modifying it by adding an extension to every second or third pole with mesh or strands of wire stretched between them.Keep in mind, though, that it’s customary to bait the deer to lick the wire in order to teach them to stay away, which may be seen as cruel. Electric fencing is less visible and easy to move when working in the garden. Monitor the garden, and continue adding strands about a foot apart until the fence is effective against the deer. If deer are still getting in, add strands about a foot above and below the first one. Start with one strand of electrified wire about 30” off the ground. Even a strand or two of electrified wire can keep deer away, as long as it’s always turned on. Electric Fence: If you’re able to maintain it, an electric fence can be a great deer barrier.You can also do this with two rows of electric fencing set about 3’ apart. The deer won’t like being caught between the fences, so they will avoid attempting the jump. Double Fence: Two fences spaced a few feet apart, regardless of height, can also work.Deer will hesitate to jump over it due to both the height and distance. Slanted Fence: A 6’ high fence can be effective if it’s slanted outward (toward the deer) at about a 45° angle.The fence is even more effective if deer can’t see through it. ![]() Tall Fence: An 8’ high fence is considered pretty much deer-proof and is tall enough to prevent even a frightened deer from jumping it.The most common effective designs for a deer fence are: Here are the basics on how to add a deer fence in your yard.Ī privacy fence is the most effective type of deer fence. Fencing for deer doesn’t have to be extremely expensive or unsightly, however, and there are a number of types of fencing and methods of installation that can work. If deer are still eating your plants despite using deer repellents and switching to deer-resistant plants, you may want to consider installing a deer-proof fence to keep them out.ĭeer fencing isn’t suitable for every yard, and be sure to check local building codes and neighborhood covenants before installing any fence. Lighted Magnifying Glass That Stays Putĭeer fencing protecting newly planted grapes.ĭeer can be a real problem in a yard or garden.Single vs Double Vs Triple Pane Windows. ![]()
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