Deer resistant landscaping
As plums fall from our neighbor’s trees, the deer come to assist in the cleanup. We walk our dog past this area daily and are noticing the distinct hoof marks left by the deer as they come to claim their dessert each night.
On Alerche Drive, many homes have wrought iron fences and gates installed to keep the deer from devouring their expensive landscaping. For most of Belwood, Belgatos and Surmont, though, a 5′ tall fence of this sort is not feasible, nor would the local rules and regulations permit them anywhere close to the street. Aside from big barriers, what can be done to protect plants and trees from our voracious friends?
A number of websites include information on deer resistant – or possibly “deer proof” – landscaping. Here are some helpful resources:
Yerba Buena Nursery in Half Moon Bay offers landscaping tips and a list of plants less likely to make the favorites list for the deer:
http://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/DEER1a.php
On the Central Coast area of California, the Las Pilitas Nursery suggests that most ideal is to target plants which less susceptible to both deer and fire: http://www.laspilitas.com/easy/deerfire.htm
The Deer Friendly website shares information on landscaping to avoid attracting deer as well as hints on barriers to them.
http://www.deerfriendly.com/deer-resistant-plants (and more links too)
