Deer Fencing 101: How to Keep Deer Out of Your Crops

Deer can be a major problem for farmers and gardeners, as they can cause significant damage to crops, shrubs, and trees. While there are several methods for deterring deer, including repellents and scare devices, one of the most effective ways to keep deer out of your crops is by installing deer fencing. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of deer fencing, including the benefits of deer fencing, the different types of deer fencing available, and some tips on how to install and maintain your deer fence.

The Benefits of Deer Fencing

Deer fencing offers several benefits for farmers and gardeners, including:

• Protecting crops: Deer fencing is one of the most effective ways to protect crops from deer damage.
• Deterrent: Deer fencing is a strong visual deterrent that can prevent deer from entering your property in the first place.
• Long-lasting: Deer fencing is designed to last for many years, providing a long-term solution to deer problems.
• Customizable: Deer fencing comes in many different heights and materials, making it customizable to fit your specific needs.

Types of Deer Fencing

There are several types of deer fencing available, including:

• Metal deer fencing: Metal deer fencing is made from materials such as steel or aluminum and is highly durable and long-lasting. It can be a good choice for areas with high deer populations or for crops that need maximum protection.
• Polypropylene deer fencing: Polypropylene deer fencing is made from a lightweight plastic material that’s easy to install and maintain. It can be a good choice for smaller gardens or areas with low to moderate deer populations.
• Electric deer fencing: Electric deer fencing uses a mild shock to deter deer from entering your property. It can be a good choice for areas where other types of fencing are not practical or for crops that need extra protection.

How to Install Deer Fencing

Installing deer fencing can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task, to do on your own but that’s where we come in. We have the knowledge, equipment, and staff to knock out a project like this in no time. Here are some steps to follow when installing a deer fence:

1. Determine the height: The height of your deer fence will depend on the type of deer in your area and the height of your crops. A fence that’s at least 8 feet tall is recommended for most deer populations.
2. Measure and mark the area: Measure the perimeter of the area you want to protect and mark it with stakes or flags.
3. Install fence posts: Install fence posts at regular intervals along the perimeter of the area. Make sure the posts are sturdy and secure.
4. Attach the fencing: Attach the fencing material to the posts, making sure it’s pulled tight and secure.
5. Secure the bottom of the fence: Deer can crawl under fencing if there’s enough space. Secure the bottom of the fence with stakes or by burying it in the ground.

Maintaining Your Deer Fence

Once your deer fence is installed, it’s important to maintain it to ensure its effectiveness. Here are some tips for maintaining your deer fence:

• Regularly inspect the fence for damage or wear and tear, including posts, rails, and wire mesh. Check for any broken or cracked posts, loose wires, or any other signs of damage that could compromise the integrity of your fence.
• Repair any damage as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse. This can include replacing damaged posts or rails, tightening loose wires, or fixing any other issues that you may find during your inspection.
• Keep vegetation trimmed away from the fence to prevent it from damaging the fence or creating a hiding spot for predators. Regularly trim any shrubs or bushes near the fence to keep them from growing into the fence.
• Clean your fence periodically to prevent debris buildup, such as leaves or branches, which can make your fence more attractive to deer and other animals. Use a garden hose or pressure washer to clean the fence, and be sure to remove any debris that may have accumulated.

Additional Tips for Keeping Deer Out of Your Crops

In addition to installing a deer fence, there are several other steps you can take to prevent deer from damaging your crops, including:

• Plant deer-resistant plants: There are several plants that are known to be resistant to deer, such as lavender, sage, and thyme. Consider planting these plants around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where deer are known to frequent.
• Use deer repellents: There are several deer repellents available, such as sprays and granules, that can help deter deer from entering your property. These products typically use strong scents or tastes that are unpleasant to deer.
• Create noise and movement: Deer are easily spooked by sudden noises or movements, so consider using scare devices such as motion-activated sprinklers, noisemakers, or wind chimes to create an intimidating environment for deer.

Deer fencing can be an effective way to protect your crops from deer damage, but it’s important to choose the right type of fencing and install it correctly to ensure its effectiveness. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right deer fencing for your needs, install and maintain it properly, and take additional steps to prevent deer from damaging your crops.

If you need help choosing the right deer fencing for your property or need to install a new fence, we’re here to help. Just fill out the form on our website, and we’ll send you a free no-obligation quote! Our team of experienced fence contractors can help you determine the best type of deer fencing for your needs and ensure that your fence is installed correctly and safely. Contact us today to get started.