Q: I have a problem with deer entering our yard and eating the flowers in our patio container pots. I have tried a spray-on repellent, but it hasnβt worked. A fence is not possible. Any suggestions?
A:Β Fencing is the gold standard for protecting plants from deer. Otherwise, it is a bit more of a challenge. Some people use repellents with limited success because the deer either get used to the smell or the repellent wears off. If you want to try other repellents, some people hang small cloth bags with fragrant soap in them from outside branches. Others use various types of predator urine. You could also get a big dog that will bark at the deer as needed. Another tactic is to alter your landscape so the plants are difficult to access. This might be accomplished by putting the containers behind something else that blocks the deer. If there is enough other food nearby, they may see itβs too much trouble and change their route.
Peter L. Warren is the Forest Health Program Coordinator for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. Questions, photos and videos may be emailed toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
