Wait a sec, they weren't invited to the party.
There is no question that deer are becoming an increasing threat to the garden, trees, and shrubbery on your property. The need for food and a steady decrease in habitat force deer into residential and commercial areas. What types of deer fence can be used for deer exclusion?
Your choice will be determined by various factors:
- local codes and ordinances - be sure to check for height and material restrictions
- aesthetic considerations - determine what fits best with your property, height, visibility, design, and appearance
- expense considerations - the cost of the fence vs value of your plantings
- effectiveness of the fence - strength, longevity, need for repair
- extent of protection - entire property or individual plantings
Varieties of deer fencing available:
- wood & vinyl - solid, slatted (use close spacing)
- metal - welded, woven, galvanized, vinyl coated, single strand electric, wire mesh
- plastic - extruded mesh
Whichever deer fence you choose, make sure that your fence is well braced to resist pushing. Even though deer can jump over eight feet, your fence will not have to be that high. You should place the deer fence at least 12" from the plants you want to protect.
Good luck on your project!