Deer can be beautiful to watch, but they can also be irritating and destructive to gardens, yards, and other outdoor areas. Deer can munch on your flowers, shrubs, and trees, dig up your lawn and eat your vegetables. But there are ways to keep deer away from your property without using lethal force. Here are some tips on how to keep deer out of your yard.
Fencing
One of the most effective ways to keep deer away from your yard is to erect a fence. Deer can jump over or crawl under most fences, so you need to make sure your fence is at least 8 feet tall. It should also be made of a material that deer cannot easily chew through or climb. Some of the best materials for deer fences are galvanized steel mesh, hard plastic, and metal. They should also be installed with a slight outward slant so that deer cannot gain enough leverage to jump over.
Motion-Sensing Devices
Motion-sensing devices are a great way to keep deer away from your yard. These devices can detect movement and emit a loud sound or flashing light, which startles deer away. The sound and light should be loud enough to be heard and seen from a distance. Motion-sensing devices are easy to install and can be a very effective way to keep deer away from your yard.
Repellents
There are a variety of commercial repellents on the market that are designed to keep deer away. These repellents usually contain a strong odor or taste that deer find unpleasant. You can purchase commercial repellents in liquid, granule, or aerosol form. Most repellents should be applied every two to four weeks for maximum effectiveness.
Remove Attractants
Deer are attracted to certain plants and foods, so it is important to remove these attractants from your yard. This includes removing any plants that deer find appealing, such as fruit trees and flowering shrubs. It is also important to keep your yard free of fallen fruit and vegetables, as deer are attracted to these as well. Finally, keep bird feeders away from your property, as they can also attract deer.
Grow Deer-Resistant Plants
One of the best ways to keep deer out of your yard is to grow deer-resistant plants. Deer tend to avoid plants that have a strong smell or taste, such as lavender, rosemary, and garlic. You can also plant thorny shrubs and trees, as deer will not want to risk getting pricked. Finally, you can also grow plants that have fuzzy or spiny foliage, as deer will not want to rub up against them.
Deer Deterrent Sprays
Deer deterrent sprays are another effective way to keep deer out of your yard. These sprays can be sprayed around the perimeter of your property, and have an unpleasant odor or taste that will keep deer away. You can purchase commercial deer deterrent sprays, or you can make your own at home using garlic, onion, and chili pepper extracts. These sprays should be reapplied after heavy rain or snow.
Install Motion-Activated Lights
Motion-activated lights are a great way to keep deer away from your yard. These lights will turn on when they detect movement, and the sudden bright light will startle the deer away. You can purchase motion-activated lights at your local hardware or home improvement store, and they are relatively easy to install.
Keep Dogs and Cats Outside
If you have dogs or cats, it is important to keep them outside when possible. Dogs and cats can be a great deterrent for deer, as the sound of barking and meowing can be enough to startle them away. It is also important to keep your pets away from the deer, as they could be injured if they get too close.
Conclusion
Deer can be both beautiful and destructive, so it is important to take steps to keep them away from your yard. Fencing, motion-sensing devices, repellents, attractant removal, deer-resistant plants, deterrent sprays, and motion-activated lights are all effective ways to keep deer out of your yard. Additionally, keeping dogs and cats outside can also be a great way to deter deer. With some careful planning, you can enjoy the beauty of deer without having to worry about the destruction they can cause.