collected by Debra Stoleroff
So many years ago, I put out a ‘Deer Welcome’ sign when I moved into my house. I know. I can’t believe it either. What a mistake. I quickly took the sign down but word was out. The herd arrived — up to 20 at a time. I can’t tell you how much money I have spent on shrubs and perennials only to have them devoured within a season. It took me a while to smarten up.
So, in thinking about recipes for this edition of the newsletter, I thought it might be nice to include some great deer repellent recipes. These two from the Yard and Garden Guru are written specifically for hostas but can be used for other plants as well. https://yardandgardenguru.com/homemade-deer-repellent-for-hostas/
Effective and Long-Lasting Peppermint Spray
When you use the smell of peppermint with the other ingredients, you can make the ready-to-use homemade deer deterrent you need. It is among the best garden deer repellents to use, along with your other attempts at keeping these animals from your yard.
- 6 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 4 drops of rosemary oil
- 8 oz of white vinegar
Add each of the ingredients into a large spray bottle and shake. First, spray the mixture around your hostas’ ground and the garden plants you want to give protection. Avoid spraying on leaves and vegetables when using this, as vinegar can kill these plants. The scent may be pleasing to humans, but keeping deer away is best.
Deer Spray with Liquid Soap
You may find this one isn’t as effective as others, yet it is cost-effective for use repeatedly.
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 3 large eggs (including the shells)
- 2 cups of water
- 2 cups of fresh green onion leaves
- 1 bar of melted soap (use Irish Spring or Dial)
- 2 Tbsp of hot chili or pepper powder
- 1 large clove of garlic
Mix all the ingredients together, let sit for a day (or a week — but it will get smelly). Pour into a spray bottle. Spray on plants.
