Whether it’s the winter and deer are searching for food not covered in snow, or it’s a warmer season and they’re looking for a new place to eat, there are many ways to help keep your plants off the menu. The following DIY deer repellent ideas are easily made from ingredients you have in your kitchen or found at your local grocery store. If you’re looking for alternatives to harsh chemicals or expensive fences, try these more natural ways of saving your garden, trees, shrubs, and flowers from a deer’s insatiable appetite.

Ingredients to Make DIY Deer Repellent

• Hot water – dissolving the following ingredients in hot water creates the sprayable solution for your plants.
• Two eggs – the egg whites will dry on the leaves, allowing the solution to last longer. The sulfuric compounds of the egg yolks give the mixture an offensive smell without harming your plants. That rotten egg smell should dissipate once it dries.
• Garlic powder – deer and other animals are put off by the scent and taste of garlic.
• Cayenne pepper – if the deer happens to tolerate the other ingredients, the spice of the pepper will leave a burning sensation in their mouth that will deter further plant consumption.

What to do:

1. Gather ingredients and a mixing container with a lid.
2. Beat two eggs.
3. Add to hot water.
4. Whisk in two tablespoons of garlic powder and two tablespoons of cayenne pepper.
5. Let the liquid rest in covered bowl for two to three days.
6. Transfer liquid to clean spray bottle.
7. Apply to plants.

Repelling Deer with Plants

There are many aromatic herbs that are not only offensive to deer, but make wonderful additions to your garden and meals. Plant sage, rosemary, and thyme in your garden, and you can help keep deer away and bring wonderful flavor to a variety of homemade dishes.

In addition to strong smells, deer also typically avoid plants with fuzzy foliage, such as lambs ear, ageratum, and yarrow. Thick, leathery leaves are also a turn off, so iris and peonies are safe. Prickly plants can keep deer away, but depending on where you plant them, they could keep humans away too.

While there are more natural ways of fending off deer, if any of these DIY deer repellents don’t keep the stubborn animals away, you can call in the professionals from Elite Tree Care at 610-935-2279 and ask about your other options.