Keeping deer from eating mums can be a challenge, as these beautiful flowers are often a tasty treat for these animals. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across this issue many times and have found several effective strategies to deter deer from feasting on mums in your garden. Let’s dive into some practical and effective methods:
1. Fencing: Installing a tall and sturdy fence around your garden is one of the most reliable ways to keep deer out. Opt for a fence that is at least 8 feet tall, as deer are excellent jumpers. Make sure the fence is solid and without any gaps that deer could squeeze through.
2. Repellents: Using deer repellents can be an effective deterrent. There are various types available, including liquid sprays and granular formulations. Look for repellents that contain substances like garlic, rotten eggs, or predator urine. These scents can help mask the attractive smell of mums and discourage deer from approaching.
3. Plants with strong scents: Interplanting your mums with aromatic plants can help repel deer. Consider adding plants like lavender, rosemary, or sage, as deer tend to dislike strong scents. This can create a natural barrier around your mums, making them less appealing to hungry deer.
4. Motion-activated devices: Deer are skittish creatures and can be easily startled. Utilizing motion-activated devices can startle them away from your garden. Options include motion-activated sprinklers, lights, or noise-making devices. These sudden movements or sounds can deter deer from approaching and feeding on your mums.
5. Netting or mesh: Protecting your mums with netting or mesh can physically prevent deer from accessing them. This method is especially useful if you only have a few mums or a small garden space. Simply cover your plants with the netting, ensuring it is securely fastened to prevent deer from getting underneath.
6. Plant selection: While mums may be a favorite of deer, there are certain varieties that they find less palatable. Opt for varieties with tougher or more pungent leaves, as deer are less likely to graze on these. Additionally, choosing plants that deer generally avoid, such as daffodils or foxgloves, can help protect your mums by diverting the attention of deer elsewhere in your garden.
Remember, no method is foolproof, and deer can be persistent. It’s often best to combine multiple strategies to increase your chances of success. By employing a combination of fencing, repellents, companion planting, motion-activated devices, and plant selection, you can create a deer-resistant environment for your mums.
Personal Experience: I have encountered deer regularly in my own garden, and they have been particularly fond of my mums. After trying various methods, I found that a combination of fencing and repellents worked best for me. I installed a tall fence around my garden and sprayed a deer repellent around my mums. This dual approach significantly reduced deer damage and allowed my mums to thrive.
