Introduction

Gardeners who grow tomatoes know that deer can be a major problem. These ungulates are known to eat tomato plants, not just the fruit but also the leaves and stem. If left unchecked, deer can devastate a tomato crop in a matter of days. So, what can gardeners do to keep deer from eating their tomato plants? Here are some tips and tricks that can help.

Use Fencing

Fencing is a popular way to keep deer out of the garden. Ideally, a fence should be at least 8 feet tall to prevent deer from jumping over it. However, if an 8-foot fence is not practical, a lower fence might still work. For example, a 4-foot fence can be effective if it is electric or if it has a double layer with the outer layer at a 45-degree angle. This will make it more difficult for deer to jump over it.

Use Repellents

There are many commercial deer repellents on the market that are designed to keep deer away from the garden. These repellents work by either emitting an unpleasant odor or taste that deer find repulsive, or by mimicking the scent of predators. Home remedies like human hair or bars of soap can also work as repellents.

Plant Deer-Resistant Varieties

Some tomato varieties are less attractive to deer than others. For example, cherry tomatoes are usually less prone to deer damage than larger varieties. Additionally, some heirloom tomatoes are known to be more deer-resistant than their hybrid counterparts. Ask your local nursery or garden center for recommendations.

Use Motion-Activated Sprinklers

Motion-activated sprinklers can startle deer and cause them to run away. These sprinklers work by detecting movement and then spraying a burst of water in the direction of the movement. This can be an effective way to keep deer away from the garden, but it may not work in all situations. For example, in very dry climates, using a sprinkler may not be practical.

Conclusion

Deer can be a real problem for gardeners who grow tomato plants. However, there are many ways to keep them away. Fencing, repellents, planting deer-resistant varieties, and using motion-activated sprinklers are all effective strategies. It's important to remember that no single solution will work for all situations. Gardeners may need to experiment with different approaches to find the one that works best for them.