You have moved to a rural property because you love nature. Your small farm is the perfect size for a vegetable or ornamental garden. You imagine your days serenely tending your garden. Then, of course, reality sets in.
Many gardeners on small farms face frustration when their carefully nurtured plants are damaged by wildlife. In fact, animals such as deer can cause more harm to gardens than typical pests like insects, diseases, or weeds.
Wildlife is naturally drawn to easy and attractive food sources. A flourishing garden becomes an inviting buffet, especially during times when natural food is scarce, such as during drought conditions.
One of the most effective ways to protect your garden is by using physical barriers to keep animals out. Additionally, strong smells and unpleasant tastes can discourage wildlife from venturing into your garden.
Chemical repellents that emit foul odours can be applied around the garden’s edges. When using these products, it is important to consider the safety of people, pets, and plants, as well as the cost involved.
Home remedies are also popular among gardeners. A simple homemade spray consisting of 20% whole eggs mixed with 80% water can be applied monthly to deter animals.
Some commercial repellents contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in peppers, which can be effective. Other homemade deterrents include sachets filled with dog hair or bars of strongly scented soap.
Visual and auditory deterrents may also prove useful. Items such as scarecrows, hanging pie tins, reflective materials, and fake predator figures can help keep wildlife away, especially if moved regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Sound devices like ultrasonic units, “bird bangers,” or recordings of distress calls can also provide some protection.
For more persistent wildlife, fencing, netting, or cages may be necessary. Chicken wire fences about 36 inches high, buried 6 inches deep, can deter rabbits and squirrels.
Fences intended to keep deer out should be at least 8 feet tall. Electric fences are another option, with lower strands for small animals and taller setups for larger ones, but these must be clearly marked.
Planting deer-resistant flowers, such as marigolds, geraniums, salvias, snapdragons, vincas, and yarrow, can also help reduce damage naturally.