Coping With Deer

The only 100% effective barrier to deer is a fence, but deterrents and repellents can go a long way toward making deer feel unwelcome.

Deer can be a real menace for gardeners. Even when wild food is plentiful, garden plants are delectable treats worth seeking out. So how do you keep your yard and garden from being devoured?

Plant what deer don't want. If you've had trouble with deer, you already know the plants they love. Try incorporating less unappealing plants such as lilacs, spirea, holly and spruce.

Repel deer with smell and taste. Sometimes deer need a little encouragement to stay away. Repellents discourage deer from feeding either because they have a bad taste or a noxious smell.

Frighten deer away. Deer can’t defend themselves, so they always need to be on the alert for predators. Unexpected lights and sounds can send them running for cover.

Create a physical barrier. Fencing is the most reliable solution. If you have serious deer problems, you'll save lots of heartache by investing in a sturdy fence around your yard or garden.

• Savvy Gardener Gives Deer Their Own Clover Meadow
• Animal Fencing Techniques