Unused stories
Pest of the Month - Deer
As the recent rains diminish and we head into summer our ever-present Marin deer will reappear. Or did they ever leave your gardens? The only certain preventative for deer foraging is adequate fencing. On a hillside 6 ft. fencing might be adequate but 8 ft. is optimal for most terrains. Or one can simulate a taller fence by stringing wire visibly at the higher level.
If fencing is not feasible here are some other ideas. Plant known “deer resistant” plants and protect initially with bird netting fencing. The netting can be removed when plants are established, trees are high enough to avoid their nibbling, or they’ve lost interest. Even a simple net “drape” will discourage the deer, as their noses don’t like the feel. You can remove in a month or so. Watch that the leaves don’t grow through the netting as they can come off when the netting is removed. Deer sprays and granular deterrents are somewhat effective but repeated applications are needed.
Here is a list of proven deer resistant plants for my Corte Madera garden.
And here are some websites that give the option of selecting deer resistant plants.
Annie’s Annuals
San Marcos Growers
Yerba Buena Nursery
But, as we say, deer can’t read, so beware!
Written by Mary Warner, Marin Master Gardener