Gardeners Seek Solutions to Deer Damage
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Gardeners Seek Solutions to Deer Damage
- Exclusionary fencing, at least eight feet high, is considered the most effective method for preventing deer from accessing gardens.
- Chris Enroth, a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension, recommends various strategies including fencing and repellents to protect plants.
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Deer can be a significant nuisance for gardeners, often treating backyards as a personal food source. Historically, the deer population in Illinois was nearly eliminated in the late 1800s and early 1900s due to overhunting and landscape changes. However, reintroduction efforts in 1933 helped the population rebound, and now regulated hunting is the primary form of population management.
To protect gardens, exclusion is often cited as the most effective method. Fences need to be at least eight feet tall to deter deer, which are capable jumpers. Electric fences offer a potentially cheaper and still effective alternative to tall physical barriers. For guidance on fence designs, gardeners can contact their local IDNR biologist.
Repellents can also be used, though they are generally less effective than fencing and may not work if deer are particularly hungry. These should be applied before deer establish feeding patterns or at the first sign of damage. There are two main types: contact repellents, which make plants taste bad, and area repellents, which deter deer with their odor. Some studies have shown that soaps made from tallow fatty acids can be effective within a small radius, requiring multiple bars for larger areas. Repellents often need reapplication, especially after rain, and their effectiveness can be short-lived.
Beyond physical barriers and repellents, selecting deer-resistant plants can also help mitigate damage. The University of Illinois Extension provides research-based information and resources to help residents manage interactions with wildlife, including deer.