Deer-proofing

A landscape friend recently reminded me of a successful formula for keeping the deer away from your plants.

This tends to be a real problem, particularly in the suburbs in a year or period of low rainfall. Although our year started off with lots of rain, the drier season of late summer is putting more stress on animals to find food and water (sometimes only through food).

A soil amendment and fertilizer, known as Milorganite, is actually made from sewage sludge. I know, you are turning up your nose -- but so are the deer! Actually, the filtering process makes this a very worthwhile organic fertilizer and top dressing. If you will cut the corner of the bag and spread 1-2" around the plant, it will repel the deer. Applying a light sprinkling of water will 'activate' the scent and add an extra level of protection.

If you are having trouble with rabbits, the dry version of Repels All is said to be an effective treatment.

Let me know your success with these products. It's been a while since I had to be concerned with the varmints...

Lyn