Close the Door at the Deer Cafe

Ever wish you could un-invite the deer from your garden? It's not easy, but there are ways. 

 

An acquaintance of mine uses outdated plastic CDs above her vegetable garden to deter both deer and birds. Deer are leary of shiny, nearby objects that move. This strategy takes advantage of the animal's poor ability to see items close-up and its tendency to startle easily the first time it sees something.

 

But remember that deer are quick to become accustomed to anything--so move the CDs every week or so, and add some wind chimes for an added source of surprise. Good luck!

 

See my article on strategies to resist deer damage in The Day/Zip06: Closing the Door at the Deer Cafe.