Deer and rabbits are frequent visitors in Twin Cities yards - which can be a nuisance for homeowners, especially during the fall and winter when food sources become scarce.
While the furry friends might be cute to watch from the windows, they can wreak havoc on your plants and landscaping. After spending all summer adding new plants to your yard and making them beautiful, you don't want to see them get chewed up.
Fortunately, our experts at Minnesota Landscapes have numerous options for protecting your landscaping. Check out these tips!
Fencing
- Install Deer Fencing: A tall, sturdy fence made of deer-resistant materials can be an effective deterrent. Consider using fencing that extends a few inches into the ground to prevent digging.
- Rabbit-Proof Fencing: A smaller mesh fence can be sufficient for rabbits. Bury the bottom of the fence a few inches into the ground to prevent rabbits from digging underneath.
Repellents
- Commercial Repellents: Apply commercial deer and rabbit repellents to your plants and garden. These repellents often contain natural ingredients that are unpleasant to these animals.
- Homemade Repellents: Consider making your repellents using natural ingredients like hot sauce, garlic, or cayenne pepper. This is easy, and the natural solution will protect the animals.
Plant Deer-Resistant Plants
- Choose Wisely: Select plants that are less appealing to deer and rabbits. Examples include lavender, rosemary, marigolds, and daffodils.
- Create a Diverse Landscape: A diverse landscape with various plants can make your yard less attractive to these animals.
Physical Barriers
- Netting: Protect young trees and shrubs with netting.
- Row Covers: Cover your vegetable garden with row covers to deter rabbits and other small animals.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers
- Surprise Them: Install motion-activated sprinklers to scare away deer and rabbits. This can be more involved, so trying one of the other options can be easier before opting for this solution.
Limit Food Sources
- Clean Up Debris: Remove fallen fruits, berries, and other food sources that may attract these animals.
- Secure Garbage: Store garbage and compost in airtight containers to prevent access.
Live Traps
- Relocation: If all else fails, consider using live traps to capture and relocate deer or rabbits. Obviously, it can be easier to trap and relocate a rabbit than a deer. When considering this option, it's important to call an expert to ensure you create the trap accurately and don't injure the animals during the process.
Implementing these strategies can help protect your yard from deer and bunny damage and allow you to enjoy a peaceful outdoor space throughout the fall and winter seasons.
Contact our team of experts at Minnesota Landscapes for services. We can successfully help you protect your plants from deer and rabbits.
