Keeping a Garden Safe

No matter where your garden is located, unless it is on a deck or in a greenhouse, you will be presented with the challenge of how to keep your vegetables or flowers safe from other creatures who may think that all your hard earned efforts are for their sole enjoyment. Here are a few photos of fencing options to detract deer observed in and around our neighborhood.

String tied around stakes with orange ribbon for visibility and aluminum pie plates to make noise when the blow in the wind.

CDs are hung from poles and illuminated with small solar lights. Fishing wire is strung low to discourage entry into this garden.

Keeping with the entertainment theme, VHS tape is strung several times around the perimeter of this garden.

A traditional wooden fence is attractive, but can be costly.

This year, I have tried the VHS tape approach which has provided some disincentive to the deer although the past couple weeks have seen the tape broken a couple times. In additional to a physical barrier, it is also helpful to use scented repellants, as long as you reapply frequently and mix it up occasionally.  Some examples are urine (all types) sprinkled around, not on plants;  eggs blended with water or milk sprayed on the plants; Milorganite fertilizer hung on posts around the garden; and traditional store bought "Deer-off".

One thing is certain though, deer become accustomed to any deterrent, so unless you have an electric or six-foot fence you will most likely find yourself sharing your garden with uninvited guests. As long as things are growing well, the plants can recover from periodic nibbling.