Deer fencing that actually works — print version.
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SUS Farms · Utah Gardening
Deer fencing that actually works
pests · intermediate · ~5 min read
A determined Utah mule deer can clear a 7-foot fence from a standstill. Repellent sprays work for 2–4 weeks at a time, in dry weather, until they don't. The two strategies that consistently work long-term are 8-foot fence or the double-fence trick.
The 8-foot fence
Black plastic deer netting on metal T-posts. 8 feet tall, posts every 10 feet. Cheap (under $1.50/ft), nearly invisible from 30 feet away, lasts 5–7 years before UV degrades it. Tension top and bottom wires keep it from sagging. Bury or stake the bottom edge — deer will push under a slack fence.
The double-fence trick
Two parallel 4-foot fences, set 4 feet apart. Deer can clear height OR distance, but not both at once. The visual depth confuses the jump calculation. Cheaper than 8-foot fencing (regular field fencing works), and you can plant the gap between fences with non-tasty perennials so the strip looks intentional.
Garden-only protection
Don't fence the whole yard — fence the vegetable garden. 4×8 raised beds with hoops + bird netting work for spring lettuce. A 6-foot dog kennel panel system makes a portable garden cage. Deer mostly leave thorny and aromatic perennials alone — site lavender, rosemary, and barberry between deer-favorites and the property edge.
Repellent sprays — limited use
Bobbex, Liquid Fence, and Plantskydd work for 2–4 weeks before reapplication. Best for short-term protection of new transplants in fall. Rotate brands every reapplication so deer don't adapt. Useless after rain. Useless on plants you're going to eat.
Plants deer mostly leave alone
Lavender, rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano, mint, daffodils, alliums, peonies, bleeding heart, bee balm, columbine, foxglove, lupine, yarrow, salvia, Russian sage. "Deer-resistant" is not "deer-proof" — a hungry deer in February will eat anything not on a list of toxic plants.