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Hydrangeas and deer #872941
Asked June 13, 2024, 12:01 PM EDT
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
Some unpalatable plants may help them move on. There are some suggestions here-
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/oh_deer_oh_dear
But, results on this technique are mixed, and it is not a 100% effective solution.
Because they are creatures of habit, they may be browsing your new plants where they used to find food. Completely incasing the new plants for this season in cages may make them move on and browse elsewhere: then you could remove the protective cages next year.
Deer repellents typically work but, must be re-applied after each rain, Exclusion with fencing is the only sure way to prevent damage. I am including some bulletins for you with some ideas.( one mentions hunting but we are not advocating that; the fencing options is why I included it here)
https://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/wildlife/prevention_and_control/organic-deer-control.html
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/discouraging_deer_year_round_in_your_yard_facts_versus_fantasies
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart_gardening_to_deter_deer
https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/uploads/files/deer_resistant_plants.pdf