Deer can be a frustrating problem for many gardeners, as they can quickly ravage your hard-earned crops and landscaping. However, there are several effective strategies you can use to keep these pesky creatures out of your garden, especially at night when they are most active.
One of the most important things you can do is to install a physical barrier, such as a fence, around your garden. Deer are excellent jumpers, so your fence should be at least 8 feet tall to deter them. You can also use electric fencing or a combination of physical and electric fencing for added protection.
Another effective deterrent is to use motion-sensor lights or sprinklers around the perimeter of your garden. These devices will activate when a deer approaches, startling them and encouraging them to stay away. You can also try using scent-based deterrents, such as predator urine or commercially-available deer repellents, to keep deer at bay.
Finally, consider planting species that are naturally deer-resistant, such as lavender, rosemary, and euphorbias. These plants have strong scents or textures that deer tend to avoid. By incorporating a variety of these plants into your garden, you can create a less appealing environment for deer and reduce the chances of them causing damage.
Remember, keeping deer out of your garden requires a multi-faceted approach. By combining physical barriers, motion-activated devices, scent-based deterrents, and deer-resistant plants, you can effectively protect your garden from these unwelcome visitors, even during the night hours when they are most active.