Minnesota’s wildlife, especially deer and rabbits, can wreak havoc on gardens. The most effective defense is a combination of strategies:
- Fencing: A 6- to 8-foot deer fence or chicken wire barrier around garden beds keeps most animals out.
- Natural Repellents: Use garlic spray, predator urine, Irish Spring soap, or human hair as deterrents.
- Scare Tactics: Motion-activated sprinklers, reflective tape, and garden owls can startle intruders.
- Plant Selection: Incorporate deer- and rabbit-resistant plants such as lavender, marigolds, Russian sage, yarrow, and ornamental grasses.
Regularly rotating repellents and combining physical and biological controls help maintain long-term effectiveness.