Deer are beautiful creatures, but their love for landscaping and garden plants can quickly turn a homeowner's pride into frustration. One significant source of damage? Deer browsing on valuable plants, often targeting the most tender young shoots and buds. This is where deer eye guards come into play. But what exactly are deer eye guards? And are they the right solution for your garden? Let's dive in.
Understanding Deer Eye Guards: A Closer Look
Deer eye guards, sometimes called deer repellent netting or plant protectors, aren't actually guards for the deer's eyes! Instead, they're protective barriers designed to shield plants from deer feeding. They work on the principle of physical exclusion – keeping deer from accessing and consuming your plants. These guards come in various forms and materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Types of Deer Eye Guards:
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Individual Plant Protectors: These are often cages or sleeves made from plastic mesh, wire mesh, or even sturdy fabric. They surround a single plant, completely protecting it from deer. These are ideal for smaller plants or those of particular value.
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Larger Mesh Barriers: These are essentially fences or netting used to enclose larger areas or multiple plants. They're helpful for protecting entire flowerbeds or sections of your garden.
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Row Covers: Lightweight fabric coverings are a type of deer eye guard, particularly useful for protecting rows of vegetables or young seedlings. They often need to be secured to the ground to prevent deer from getting underneath.
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Tree Guards: Specifically designed for protecting young trees and saplings, these are typically cylindrical protectors that encircle the trunk, preventing deer from rubbing or eating the bark.
Materials and Considerations:
The material you choose for your deer eye guards is crucial. Consider these factors:
- Durability: Will the material withstand strong winds, snow, or deer attempts to push through it?
- Visibility: Do you prefer a more discreet option or something more visible to deter deer? Some netting is nearly invisible, while others are clearly visible.
- Ease of Use: How easy is it to install and remove the guards?
- Cost: Prices vary greatly depending on size, material, and design.
Are Deer Eye Guards Effective?
The effectiveness of deer eye guards depends largely on proper installation and the type of material used. While they offer a physical barrier, some deer are persistent and may attempt to reach plants through gaps or by jumping over lower barriers.
Beyond the Physical Barrier: Additional Deer Deterrents
While deer eye guards are a helpful physical barrier, combining them with other deer deterrents often proves most effective. Consider:
- Repellents: Commercial deer repellents containing strong scents or tastes can discourage deer. However, these often need to be reapplied frequently, especially after rain.
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These startle deer and deter them from entering a protected area.
- Predator Urine: The scent of wolf or coyote urine can deter deer, but the effectiveness varies.
Choosing the Right Deer Eye Guard: A Summary
Selecting the best deer eye guard depends on your specific needs and the plants you're protecting. Consider the size of the plants, the size of the area you need to protect, your budget, and whether you'll be using additional deterrents. By carefully selecting and installing deer eye guards, along with other deterrent methods, you can significantly reduce deer damage and protect your valuable garden investment.
