A Non-Toxic Solution to Deter Deers: My Gardening Experiment

Introduction

As a passionate gardener, one of the biggest challenges I face is dealing with deer that seem to enjoy feeding on my beautiful garden. Last year, I embarked on an experiment to find a non-toxic method to keep deer at bay without harming them or my plants. I decided to share my findings and create a guide for fellow garden enthusiasts to help them protect their gardens from deer.

Creating a Production Area for Peas

One year, I transformed an old garden spot into a productive area for peas. Alongside, I set up a vegetable garden closer to my house well protected by a 7-foot high fence. Although the garden was protected from most unwanted visitors, deer still managed to find their way through, particularly when the pea plants were around 18 inches tall.

Initial Attempts at Deer Repellent

I tried several methods to deter the deer from my pea patch. First, I inserted scrap PVC pipes and hung paper plates from them, but it didn't seem to have any effect. Next, I added crumpled aluminum foil and even attached stringers between the pipes to support the plates and foil. Despite these efforts, the deer kept returning and continuing to eat my plants.

Brilliant (and Dumb) Idea: Using VHS Tape

One day, while packing up some old video tapes that I had preserved onto CDs, I noticed a piece of VHS tape that was shiny on one side. This coincidental discovery led me to a brilliant (and slightly dumb) idea: I would use the VHS tape as a visual deterrent. I opened up a crappy movie, removed a full reel, and carefully snipped the tape.

I then went to the pea patch and removed all the other deterrents. By taping the VHS tape to a corner pipe and looping it around the next pipe, I ensured that the tape would twist as it came off the reel, creating a gleaming line of light as the breeze moved it. I monitored the results, and indeed, the deer were no longer tracking through or nibbling on my plants.

Addressing Other Garden Issues

My pea patch also had a nematode problem, which was carefully treated with sugar. I replanted the area in late summer and managed to get a good crop. I added four solar landscape lights for moonless nights to further protect my garden. Not a single plant was lost due to deer activity.

Physical Barriers for Deers

In situations where deer really want to feed on your plants, creating physical barriers is often the most effective method. Use heavy gage wire of at least 2" x 4" construction or wider openings, ensuring the fence is at least 6 feet in height. For taller deer, a minimum of 8 feet is recommended.

Conclusion

The use of VHS tape may seem unconventional, but it's just one example of how creative you can get in keeping deer away from your garden without resorting to harmful chemical repellents. With some strategic planning and clever DIY methods, you can protect your garden and enjoy the fruits of your labor without worrying about deer intrusions.