Deer are lovely, liquid-eyed and graceful creatures, but not in your garden.  Here on Big Ugly, the deer can really wipe out a garden in one night.  We have tried many solutions to the deer problem: sprays that smell of rotten eggs, electric fences which needs chargers and daily maintenance, pie pans, plastic bags, elaborate fencing systems, and the list goes on.

Light is not motion activated by animal, instead it flashes continuously from dusk until dawn.

Light is not motion activated by animal, instead it flashes continuously from dusk until dawn.

Eventually, it was recommended to us that we should look into a family owned company in Minnesota called Nite Guard. So last year we were able to test Nite Guard’s products.  These are little black boxes weighing about 4-5 oz., they are solar-powered and automatically turn on at dusk and off as the day lights up.  These little boxes are easy to install, but must be moved a bit, about every 1-2 weeks, so that the deer do not get acclimated  A single unit has a range of about 500 by 200 yards.  For daytime deer problems, Nite Guard supplies a sturdy repellent tape that is hung from tree branches or poles.  The tape makes a crisp rattling sound and reflects light in many directions.

Repellent tape in our community garden.

Repellent tape in our community garden.

It is hard to imagine that such a small item could be so effective.  Our pilot-testing last year was very favorable, and we will be able to give out the full report later this year. The Nite Guard  solution is easy and environmentally friendly, so it is a win-win for everyone, except the deer of course.  Hope this posting helps others with the same problem.

 

HAPPY GROWING EVERYONE!