Deer Resistant Edibles: How to Keep Your Garden Safe and Productive
As a gardener, one of the biggest challenges you may face is keeping pesky deer away from your carefully cultivated crops. It can be frustrating to put in all that hard work only to have it destroyed by these wandering critters. However, there are ways to outsmart them and create a garden that is both beautiful and productive. In this article, we will explore the world of deer-resistant edibles and offer tips on how to keep your garden safe.
Understanding Why Deer Are Attracted to Gardens
Before we delve into methods for deterring deer, it's important to understand what draws them to gardens in the first place. As herbivores, deer rely on plants as their primary food source. They are particularly fond of tender, young shoots and leaves, which can make them a real problem for gardeners. Additionally, if there is not enough food in the wild, they will venture into residential areas in search of sustenance.
Choosing Deer-Resistant Edibles
Fortunately, not all plants are created equal when it comes to deer resistance. Some varieties are more likely to be left alone by these animals due to their taste or scent. When selecting edibles for your garden, consider choosing ones that are known to be deer-resistant. These may include:
- Herbs like sage, thyme, and lavender
- Leafy greens such as kale, collards, and arugula
- Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and turnips
- Alliums including onions, garlic, and leeks
- Fruit trees such as figs, pomegranates, and persimmons
While not foolproof, planting these types of edibles can help reduce the likelihood of deer damage in your garden.
Protecting Your Garden with Physical Barriers
If you live in an area with a high deer population, physical barriers may be necessary to keep them out of your garden. Fencing is one option, but it must be at least eight feet tall to be effective. You can also try using deer netting, which is a lightweight mesh material that can be draped over plants to protect them from being eaten. Remember to anchor the netting securely to the ground so that deer cannot crawl underneath it.
Using Repellents to Deter Deer
Another option for deterring deer is to use repellents. There are several types of deer repellents available, including sprays, granules, and electronic devices. Some of these contain natural ingredients such as garlic, hot pepper, or predator urine, while others use ultrasonic sound waves to scare deer away. Whichever type of repellent you choose, it's important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure its effectiveness.
Creating a Distraction Garden
One clever way to keep deer away from your main garden is to create a distraction garden. This involves planting a separate area with edibles that deer find particularly appealing, such as clover or corn. By enticing them to eat in this designated spot, you can protect your other crops from harm. Just be sure to keep an eye on the distraction garden and remove any weeds or invasive species that may grow there.
Maintaining Your Garden for Maximum Protection
Finally, it's important to maintain your garden properly to ensure maximum protection from deer. Keep your garden clean and free of debris, as this can provide cover for deer to hide in. Remove fallen fruit promptly, as it can attract deer to your yard. Use companion planting to your advantage by interplanting herbs and flowers that repel deer, such as marigolds or mint. With a little effort and ingenuity, you can create a garden that is both beautiful and productive, even in the face of pesky deer.
Post a Comment for "Deer Resistant Edibles: How to Keep Your Garden Safe and Productive"