They’re cute, they’re furry and they love to eat – your landscape that is.  At any time of year you may find yourself doing battle with the rabbits, deer, or other wildlife. 

A four to five foot fence around a small garden is the best defense against most critters.  Secure the bottom tight to the ground or buried several inches to prevent rabbits and other small wildlife from crawling underneath. 

Scare tactics have been used for many years.  Plastic owls, clanging pans and other devices strategically placed around a garden may help scare away unwanted critters.   Unfortunately urban animals are used to noise and people smell. 

Homemade and commercial repellents can also be used.  Make sure they are safe to use on the plants you are treating.  Some gardeners sprinkle hot cayenne pepper on the plants to discourage animal feeding.  Be sure to keep the pepper away from your eyes.

Don't give up.  Try a combination of tactics and continually check for damage.

A bit more information: Creativity is your only limitation when it comes to homemade scare tactics.  Some gardeners report success repelling wildlife with handfuls of human hair in old nylon stockings or bars of deodorant soap hung throughout the landscape. 

Some garden centers and catalogues offer wildlife repellents and devices.  Garlic clips are plastic pen-like holders that are filled with garlic oil and placed in some of the wildlife’s favorite trees, shrubs and flowers. 

Others have found the Scarecrow motion activated sprinkler to be effective.  When an animal moves past the motion sensor it shoots a spray of water that startles the animal scaring it out of the yard.  Just be sure to turn it off when you are working in the garden.  Otherwise you may be the recipient of an unexpected shower.

Electrified fencing and devices can help discourage deer browsing with a slight non harmful shock.  Check with local municipality for guidelines and regulations. 

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