How to spot it

Leaves and shoots torn off with ragged edges (deer have no upper front teeth), well above rabbit height. Hoof prints and piles of pellets.

What it does

They can eat a planting to the ground overnight, especially tender greens, beans, and young fruit trees.

What to do now

• Spray repellents that smell or taste bad, and switch brands every few weeks so they don't get used to one.
• Motion-activated sprinklers scare them off for a while.

Keep it away next time

• A fence at least 8 feet tall, or two 4-foot fences set 3 to 4 feet apart.
• Netting or row cover over small beds.
• Cages around young fruit trees.

Helpful supplies

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Plants it affects