When deer wander into your garden, they see a buffet of tasty plants and vegetables. Protecting your garden in Rochester isn’t just about maintaining its beauty—it’s about safeguarding your hard work. This blog post explores effective garden fencing solutions to keep deer out, ensuring your greens and blooms stay intact.
Deer Behavior in Gardens
How Deer Enter Gardens
Deer are nimble and can easily jump over obstacles that are too low. In Rochester, it’s not uncommon to see deer leap over fences that are less than 8 feet tall. They often enter gardens during dawn or dusk when it’s harder to spot them. This behavior makes them particularly tricky to guard against without the right type of fence.
What Deer Eat in Gardens
In your garden, deer will gravitate towards soft, succulent vegetation. They are particularly fond of hostas, daylilies, and English ivy but won’t turn down a chance to munch on your vegetable garden, especially sweet corn, lettuce, and beans. Knowing what deer like to eat helps in planning both your garden’s layout and your strategy for protecting it.
The Benefits of Installing a Garden Fence
Protection of Plants and Vegetables
Installing a garden fence in Rochester is one of the most effective ways to protect your plants from deer. A well-constructed fence serves as a physical barrier that prevents deer from accessing your vegetables and flowers, thereby preventing them from causing damage that can be costly and disheartening to repair.
Enhancing Garden Aesthetics
Besides its functionality, a garden fence can enhance the overall look of your property. Fences can be designed to complement the aesthetic of your home and landscape, adding charm and character. From rustic wooden fences to modern metal designs, the right fence not only keeps deer out but also boosts your home’s curb appeal.
Types of Fencing Solutions
Physical Barriers
Choosing the right physical barrier is crucial in preventing deer from accessing your garden. Here are the most common types:
Wooden Fences
These are popular for their natural look and strong barrier capabilities. They should be at least 8 feet tall to prevent deer from jumping over. For effectiveness, the fence should not have gaps larger than a few inches, as deer can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces.
Metal Fences
Often made from steel or aluminum, metal fences offer durability and strength. They can be designed with decorative elements and fine vertical bars that prevent deer from squeezing through or climbing over. Coatings such as powder can enhance their resistance to rust and wear.
Electric Fences
These are a practical choice for large properties. Electric fences use a mild electric shock to deter deer from attempting to breach the barrier. They need to be properly maintained to ensure they are always operational. It’s important to place warning signs around electric fences to ensure safety for both humans and animals.
Chain Link Fences with PVC Coating
While not as visually appealing as wood or metal, chain link fences are cost-effective and durable. Adding a PVC coating can help the fence blend more with the environment and increase its longevity by protecting against rust.
Psychological Barriers
Using psychological tactics can enhance the effectiveness of physical barriers:
Double Fencing: Placing two or more parallel fences with about 4-5 feet between them can confuse deer. They have difficulty judging the distance and are less likely to attempt to jump both barriers.
Angled Fencing: Installing the fence at a 45-degree angle outward creates an optical illusion, making the fence appear insurmountable to deer.
Mixed Barrier Techniques: Combining solid barriers with plant-based deterrents (like thorny bushes along the fence line) can discourage deer from coming close to the fence.
Common Issues with Garden Fencing
When installing a garden fence to keep deer out, homeowners often face several common challenges. Understanding these issues can help in preventing them or dealing with them more effectively when they arise.
Maintenance Challenges
Maintaining a garden fence in Rochester requires regular attention to ensure it remains effective against deer. Here are the key maintenance tasks:
Wood Rot and Pest Infestation: Wooden fences, while aesthetically pleasing, are susceptible to rot and pest infestation, especially in humid or rainy climates. Regular treatment with wood preservatives and checking for signs of termites or other pests are essential.
Rust and Corrosion: Metal fences can rust over time, especially if the protective coatings are compromised. Regular inspections for rust spots and application of rust-proofing products can extend the life of your fence.
Electric Fence Power Issues: For electric fences, power interruptions can render them ineffective. Regularly checking the voltage and ensuring the power source is reliable are critical steps. Battery backups can provide power during outages.
Weather and Wear
Rochester’s varied weather conditions can pose challenges for garden fences:
Winter Damage: Heavy snow and ice can cause physical damage to fences, such as bending or breaking posts. Using sturdy materials and ensuring proper installation depth for posts can mitigate these issues.
Wind Damage: Strong winds can loosen fence posts, especially if they aren’t installed deeply enough or if the soil is too soft. Reinforcing posts with concrete and using wind-resistant designs can help.
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade and weaken some materials. Using UV-resistant materials and finishes can protect the fence from sun damage.
Overcoming Climbing and Jumping
Deer are excellent jumpers and can also attempt to climb over lower fences if they can get a foothold:
Height Insufficiency: Fences under 8 feet are often not enough to deter determined deer. Extending the height with additional fencing material or angling the top section outward can discourage deer from jumping.
Climbable Structures: Fences with horizontal elements can provide footholds for deer. Using smooth, vertical designs for the fence can prevent deer from climbing.
Dealing with Undermining
Deer and other wildlife may attempt to dig under the fence to gain entry:
Securing the Base: Burying the bottom of the fence a few inches below the ground can prevent animals from digging underneath. Adding a buried wire mesh barrier can also deter digging.
Regular inspections and timely maintenance are key strategies to keep the fencing in optimal condition …
By addressing these common issues, homeowners can enhance the effectiveness of their garden fences and ensure that their gardens are well-protected from deer invasions. Regular inspections and timely maintenance are key strategies to keep the fencing in optimal condition and prevent the common problems that can lead to deer breaches.
Installation Tips and Best Practices
DIY vs. Professional Installation
DIY Installation: Ideal for those who are handy and looking to save on costs. Essential tools include a post digger, hammer, saw, and possibly a cement mixer for setting posts. It’s important to ensure that all posts are deeply buried (at least 3 feet) for stability.
Professional Installation: Recommended for those who prefer a hassle-free setup or have complex landscaping. Professionals can ensure that the fence is optimally placed and securely installed, which can be particularly important for electric and metal fences.
Ensuring Effectiveness
Correct Height and Depth: The fence should be a minimum of 8 feet tall to prevent deer from jumping over. The bottom of the fence should be secured at ground level or even buried a few inches into the ground to prevent deer from crawling underneath.
Regular Inspections: Check the fence regularly for any signs of damage, wear, or gaps. Immediate repairs are crucial to maintain the fence’s effectiveness.
Visibility: Especially for electric fences, ensuring the fence is visible can prevent deer from accidentally running into it. Adding flags or reflective tape can help deer see the fence, particularly at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does garden fencing cost?
The cost can vary widely based on materials, height, and length of the fence needed. Wooden fences might cost between $15 to $35 per foot, metal fences $20 to $60 per foot, and electric fences around $1 to $6 per foot. Installation costs are additional and can also vary widely.
What is the best time to install a garden fence in Rochester?
The best time is during spring or early summer. This period offers the best weather conditions for installation and causes the least disruption to growing plants. It also prepares your garden before the peak of deer activity in late summer and fall.
How do I deal with deer if they breach the fence?
First, assess how the deer breached the fence. Common solutions include raising the height of the fence, repairing any gaps or breaks, or enhancing the fence with additional deterrents like an electric wire or angled outriggers. Regular maintenance and quick responses to breaches are key to keeping deer out.
Conclusion
Installing the right garden fence in Rochester not only keeps your plants safe from deer but also enhances the beauty of your outdoor space. Choose the right materials and design to ensure that your garden remains a private sanctuary for you, not a dining area for deer.