Populations of deer have risen dramatically in the eastern United States in recent years. Many have expanded their range and seem very comfortable in urban residential areas.
This isn't good news for homeowners and gardeners gave that deer will feed on over 700 species of plants.
There are several methods to discourage deer; each has its varied level of effectiveness.
Fencing or some form of exclusion remains the most effective long-term solution to preventing deer damage. This is especially true if you are trying to protect a vegetable garden.
Preferred deer plants include fruit trees, cedars, arborvitae, birch, dogwood, daylilies, hostas, hydrangeas, and yews. Deer tend to prefer tender young plants to older tougher shoots; this is why damage can be worse in spring as plants push out new growth.
Other options to consider besides fencing:
Scare tactics and distractions. Loud sounds, motion lights, motion-activated sprinklers, strobe lights, and even hanging reflective tape from plants can be used to frighten deer away from plants. This can be combined with repellents.
Proper plant selection. The best option is to select plants that deer don’t like. Realizing that no plant can be considered deer-proof, many plants are rarely or seldom damaged by deer.
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