Strategies for Garden Pesks

Last time we talked about plants that deer aren’t really into chomping on, but deer are not the only pests that gardeners have to contend with. Other pests can range from mammals like moles to insects like the tomato hornworm.

Obviously the strategy for dealing with these to buggers are totally different. Today we’ll focus on the very general broad strokes you can start to implement in any garden.

Fencing: Vegetable gardens are an open invitation for rabbits and other mammals looking for a tasty snack. We suggest making either a regular fence or the style that completely covers the garden.

Pest Repelling Plants: The list for this is so long I think I’ll dedicate a whole post to it someday, but for now here a re a few ideas to get you going! Many herbs, such as basil, lemongrass, and rosemary, all deter insects. Many flowering plants do as well, including marigolds, chrysanthemums,  and nasturtiums.

Non-toxic Concoctions: We aren’t huge fans of synthetic chemicals and have come tested a few solutions you can make to keep the pests away. One that comes to mind is a deer repellent made using hot sauce and garlic. It really does work, deer cannot stand it! The only issue is you must reapply when it rains.

Dog Fur: Yea, it sounds crazy, and maybe it is, but I swear that using my husky’s hair around my garden would keep animals like rabbits at bay. The good thing is, I have an endless supply as he sheds year round!

Do you have any unconventional gardening techniques you use? Let us know!

Gardening and Deer

If you checked us out over here you would know we are all about gardening, plants, flowers, and the outdoors.

Since it’s spring I wanted to talk about planning a garden. I’m in Michigan, and so of course there is my region to consider for what plants will work. But I also live in an area where there is a lot of woods, which means a lot of shade.

It also means a lot of deer.

Deer are indiscriminate eaters! If they are hungry they will eat things they don’t prefer, but the best thing to do is try and deal with them by not providing what they consider tasty treats. So, while there is no ‘deer proof’ plant a few they don’t like are included below. These would all be good selections for the northeast.

Bee Balm: I love Bee Balm for it bright flowers and funky blooms and bonus it attracts butterflies and humming birds. This perennial likes the sun, but what about my wooded shade filled landscape?

Japanese Painted Fern: Well, there is a beautiful plant called a Japanese Painted Fern. It’s slow growing and has a beautiful color and can add a wonderful texture to your landscape.

Lilly of the Valley: This one is also a shade lover, but unlike the fern it spreads quickly. It also has little white blooms on it that are so fragrant. I really enjoy this one

Meadow Rue: This is another bloomer and comes in a lot of colors- pink, purple, blue. Unlike the Bee Balm, they are small blooms, so they are delicate and add a dusting of color.

Turtlehead: Really I just had to list this one because the name is too cute! It also blooms in either pink or white. It’s a nice selection to round out your garden because it blooms later in the year and into the fall.

If you don’t live in the northeast, not to worry! The best thing you can do is go to a local garden center. Unlike the big chain stores, they will carry plants pertinent to your region and they tend to be knowledgeable about what will work for your landscape.