If you’ve ever walked outside to find your hostas nibbled to the ground or your vegetable seedlings vanished, you’ve probably asked: does deer netting work? It’s a common and frustrating question for gardeners dealing with hungry wildlife. The short answer is yes, deer netting can be a highly effective garden protection solution when chosen and installed correctly. This article will give you the practical, real-world guidance you need to use it successfully.
Deer are persistent, adaptable creatures. They can jump high and squeeze through surprisingly small gaps. A flimsy barrier won’t deter them for long. That’s why understanding the strengths and limitations of deer netting is so crucial. We’ll cover the different types, the best installation methods, and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to safeguard your garden.
Does Deer Netting Work
Deer netting, also called deer fencing or deer mesh, is a physical barrier designed to exclude deer from a specific area. Its effectiveness isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends entirely on execution. Think of it like a lock on your door; a sturdy lock installed properly works great, but a cheap one left unlocked is useless. The same principle applies here.
When we ask “does deer netting work,” we’re really asking about the product’s quality, the height of the installation, and the security of its attachment. A well-installed netting system creates a psychological and physical block that convinces deer to seek easier food elsewhere. However, a poorly installed one can become a tangled mess or, worse, a hazard for other wildlife.
How Deer Netting Prevents Damage
Deer rely on their sense of sight and touch to navigate. They are cautious of obstacles that feel unstable or could trap their legs. Deer netting works by exploiting this caution.
* Visual Deterrent: The netting creates a visible wall that deer can see. This alone can discourage them from attempting to enter, especially if they have other food sources available.
* Physical Barrier: If a deer does approach, the netting provides a flexible, unsteady surface they cannot easily push through or jump over confidently. They dislike the feeling of it against there body.
* Denial of Access: Ultimately, it simply blocks the path to your prized plants. A deer won’t spend excessive energy testing a barrier if it perceives risk or difficulty.
Types of Deer Netting Material
Not all netting is created equal. Choosing the right material is your first step toward success.
Polyethylene Plastic Netting
This is the most common and affordable type. It’s lightweight, black or green (blends into landscaping), and UV-treated to last for several seasons. It’s excellent for temporary or seasonal protection around gardens or individual trees. However, it can sag over time and may snag if not supported tautly.
Polypropylene Mesh
Slightly heavier and more durable than polyethylene, polypropylene mesh is a good mid-grade option. It has better resistance to weathering and is less likely to stretch under tension. You’ll often find this used in more permanent installations.
Metal Wire Mesh or Fencing
For a permanent, heavy-duty solution, welded wire or metal mesh fencing is top-tier. It is extremely durable, won’t sag, and provides a very strong physical barrier. It’s more expensive and labor-intensive to install but can last for decades. This is often the best choice for orchards or large property borders.
Critical Factors for Successfull Installation
Installation is where most failures happen. Getting these factors right makes all the difference.
* Height: Deer are powerful jumpers. A netting height of at least 7.5 to 8 feet is recommended for a standard vertical fence. For slanted or double-fence setups, you can sometimes get away with lower heights.
* Sturdiness: The netting must be supported by strong posts (wooden or metal T-posts) placed at regular intervals. It should be pulled taut to prevent sagging, which deer could exploit.
* Bottom Edge Security: This is arguably the most important part. The bottom of the netting must be securely anchored to the ground. Deer will try to push under it. Use landscape staples, bury the edge, or weigh it down with rocks or logs.
* Gates: Any gate is a potential weak point. Ensure gates are just as tall and secure as the rest of the fence, and that they close tightly without gaps at the bottom.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps for a reliable deer netting barrier.
1. Plan Your Perimeter. Decide the exact area you want to protect. Walk the boundary and clear any brush or debris.
2. Gather Materials. You’ll need: deer netting (enough length plus extra), support posts (every 8-10 feet), post driver or hammer, zip ties or heavy-duty twine, and landscape staples or wire pins.
3. Install Support Posts. Drive your posts firmly into the ground at regular intervals. Corner and gate posts should be the sturdiest, as they handle the most tension.
4. Unroll and Attach Netting. Starting at a corner post, unroll the netting along the line of posts. Attach it to the first post securely. Keep it taut as you move to the next post, attaching it at the top, middle, and bottom.
5. Secure the Bottom Edge. Once the netting is attached to all posts, go along the entire bottom edge and secure it to the ground with landscape staples every few feet. For rocky soil, use heavy rocks or logs.
6. Inspect and Maintain. Walk the perimeter regularly. Look for sagging spots, loose attachments, or damage from fallen branches. Repair any issues immediately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the right materials, these errors can render your netting ineffective.
* Installing it Too Low: A 6-foot fence is an invitation for deer to jump. Don’t underestimate their ability.
* Leaving Gaps at the Bottom: A gap of just a few inches is an open door. Secure the bottom completely.
* Using Weak Supports: Flimsy posts that bend or lean will cause the netting to fail. Invest in sturdy supports.
* Neglecting Maintenance: Weather and wildlife can cause wear. Seasonal checks and repairs are non-negotiable.
* Forgetting About Other Access: Deer can sometimes use a low-hanging tree branch or a nearby rock to bypass your fence. Look for these “launch points” near your barrier.
Deer Netting vs. Other Deterrent Methods
Deer netting is one tool among many. Here’s how it compares.
* Repellent Sprays: Sprays need frequent reapplication (after rain) and can be costly for large areas. Netting provides constant, weather-proof protection once installed.
* Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These are great for startling deer but can be triggered by pets or wind. They also require a water source. Netting is a passive, always-on solution.
* Electric Fencing: Very effective but requires maintenance of a charger and wires. It can be more hazardous. Netting is generally safer and simpler.
* Deer-Resistant Plants: Planting things deer dislike helps, but in times of drought or scarcity, a hungry deer will eat almost anything. Netting offers guaranteed protection for any plant.
For most gardeners, a combination of a physical barrier (netting) and occasional repellent use on perimeter plants offers the best overall defense.
FAQs About Deer Netting
How long does deer netting last?
Quality UV-stabilized poly netting can last 5-7 years. Metal fencing lasts for decades. Lifespan depends on weather exposure and physical damage.
Is deer netting safe for birds and other animals?
This is a vital concern. Loose, poorly installed netting can trap and harm wildlife. Always install netting very taut and check it regularly. For bird safety, mesh size should be 1/4 inch or smaller if birds are a primary concern in your area.
Can deer netting be used for rabbits too?
Yes, but you must address the bottom edge. Rabbits will chew through plastic netting. For full rabbit protection, use a metal mesh buried several inches into the ground and attached to the bottom of the deer netting.
What’s the best way to repair a tear in the netting?
Use a zip tie or a piece of wire to pull the torn edges together and lash them tightly. For larger tears, you may need to patch it with a spare piece of netting, securing it around all edges.
Does the color of the netting matter?
Black or dark green netting tends to blend into the background better, making it less visually obtrusive in your garden. This can be more aesthetically pleasing for you and may help the barrier seem more solid to deer.
Protecting your garden from deer is an ongoing challenge, but it’s one you can win. Deer netting, when implemented with care and attention to detail, provides a reliable and effective garden protection solution. It gives you the freedom to grow what you love without constant worry. Start by assessing your garden’s size and your budget, choose the appropiate material, and commit to a proper installation. Your plants—and your peace of mind—will thank you for it.