13 Best Deer Repellent Right Now | Buyer’s Guide

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Sharing is caring, till it’s your garden-produce with deers!

We certainly don’t despise those large-innocent eyes, but we’d rather have them not damage our lawn and be the harbinger of disease. That’s why we decided to invest in deer repellents that will reinforce the presence of a garden fence. Even if you don’t have a fence, they are adequately equipped to do the job on their own.

However, we found ourselves in the midst of utter confusion with so many options. That’s why, in order to make the final call, we decided to shortlist 13 products and test them out. And today, we’re going to share our findings with you. 

So, here they are, the best deer repellents that money can buy. Let’s get started then!

Top Deer Repellent 

1. Deer Out Ready-To-Use Deer Repellent

‘Deer Out’ by name and deer out by game, this ready-to-use liquid repellent is one of the top-selling products in nurseries across the country. Its all-natural formula subtly keeps deers at bay while negating the risk of side-effects on your precious greens.

Why Did We Like It?

Aside from the positive reviews by homeowners, we were reassured by the recommendation of professional landscapers. It’s made from a combination of several natural ingredients like peppermint oil, garlic oil, white pepper, putrescent egg solids, etc., none of which are known to have detrimental effects on plants.

Another advantage of this product is the minty fresh scent that doesn’t annoy humans but effectively drives out deers. And since it doesn’t wash off easy, normal circumstances don’t require frequent reapplications. 

All you have to do is apply the mist all over your plants, covering all exposed areas from top to bottom. The oils take about an hour to get fully absorbed, so wait for some time before watering. However, the brand recommends increasing the application frequency during the initial growth phase and heavy rains.

The product even comes with a combo pack consisting of the concentrate and spray bottle, with the former needing dilution. But if you aren’t satisfied with the results, feel free to use the 30-day, 100% money-back policy.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Due to its consistency, you may observe clogs in the nozzle, making it difficult to spray the solution. Hence, we’d suggest cleaning the sprayer after every use, or placing a filter paper on the bottle opening. Other than that, we don’t have any other complaints.

2. Tomcat Repellents Deer Repellent

The next product in line is yet another ready-to-use deer repellent solution from Tomcat Store. It comprises a blend of natural oils that drives away deer without being harmful. What’s more, the no-stink formulation makes it suitable for indoor use.

Why Did We Like It?

First things first, the right mix of several effective active and inert ingredients makes it capable of protecting a variety of plants. The formula delivers a taste and smell that deters the presence of deers but doesn’t cause them any harm. When used according to the recommended dosage, it’s safe for use even around humans and pets.

For us, the most appealing aspect of this product is its comfort wand with an extended reach for absolutely effortless application. It’s a battery-powered attachment that can be connected directly to the solution container for spraying the liquid with a trigger press. 

Furthermore, the sprayer nozzle facilitates choosing the desired pattern as needed, and the ‘lock’, ‘unlock’ markings tell you if it’s ready for use. You can start applying it every 30 days at first sight of new damage or during new growth, and gradually reduce the frequency.

Beyond that, users can also opt for a granule variation that simply requires shaking the container over the turf and soil. Overall, we are happy with what it brings to the table at a reasonable price.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We aren’t entirely sure if the Tomcat Deer Repellent is made for edible plants as the instructions advise not to sell plant-produce treated with this product. Hence, it would’ve been better if it came with a clear disclaimer.

3. De-Bird Heavy Duty Garden Netting

The De-Bird Heavy Duty Garden Netting is a suitable alternative for those who may be wary of the chemicals present in formula repellants. It boasts of a strong yet lightweight construction that protects plants but doesn’t bog them down.

Why Did We Like It?

Unlike most other nylon garden nets on the market, the De-Bird Heavy Duty Garden Netting is manufactured from polypropylene (PP), making it more durable and resistant to regular use. The resultant thickness can’t be torn easily, and at the same time, is lightweight enough not to put extra pressure on the plants. Hence, you can also use it to protect delicate varieties.

Moreover, the superfine 3/5-inch mesh has a non-sticky installation that won’t snag on small leaves or branches. On a related note, we should probably mention that its total dimension is 7.55-feet by 65-feet and can double as a garden fencing, fence screen, pond animal protection, or a seasonal, temporary measure. In either case, folding or untangling the net won’t be a herculean task.

Owing to the non-fraying properties, it can be cut up with a pair of sharp scissors to customize for smaller gardens. Lastly, the prompt customer service is available 7 days a week to answer queries and provide support as needed.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We observed that the mesh gives some room to squirrels and birds for pecking, especially if the fruits or plants are too close to the net. In that sense, you might want to raise the height by placing the net atop a few sticks.

4. Zomma Ultrasonic Animal Repellent

So that our tech lover readers don’t feel left out, here we are with an ultrasonic animal repellent from the house of Zomma. It sports a simple design and essentially runs on the ‘plug it and forget it’ policy for optimum user convenience.

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Why Did We Like It?

Frankly, the Passive Infrared Sensor (PIR) did come across as a gimmicky bait at first glance, but it wasn’t long before we were compelled to discard that impression. In fact, this is what forms the basis of the efficiency of the product. 

In simple terms, the PIR detects motion within a said range and triggers the ultrasonic speaker to emit a tone that’s inaudible for humans but drives away common outdoor animals. What’s more, there’s no accompanying chemical discharge that may have detrimental effects on both plants and humans. Thus, safety is ticked off the priority list!

Coming to the installation, the first thing to do is connecting the repellent head, pole sections, and ground stake with each other. Then, mount it to the ground (or the wall) and adjust the position. The brand instructs charging the device for at least 4 hours before first use without switching on the power. And for best results, let it operate continuously.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Since the charging is dependent on solar power, it should be positioned in an area that receives adequate sunlight. Hence, overcast conditions may affect its efficiency. Also, ensure that the device doesn’t get submerged in water or snow.

5. Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler

The Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Sprinkler is designed to provide round the clock protection from invading animals while standing stable on the ground. With minimum battery consumption and a small footprint, it doesn’t occupy a lot of attention or space in your garden.

Why Did We Like It?

Right out of the gate, the Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Sprinkler looks like a prop from sci-fi movies! But that doesn’t correlate to a complicated functioning in any way. Since it’s basically a sprinkler, all it does is spray water all over the yard to keep animals and pests safely at bay. 

Talking about other specifications, the first thing that earns praise is the intelligent sensor technology that automatically differentiates between trees’ swaying and anime movement. So, the sprinkler doesn’t get activated by wind, thereby saving water.

It ‘senses’ movements from up to 40 feet away and has a wide viewing angle of about 120 degrees. Saving you the math, one sprinkler covers up to 1,600 square feet with as little as 2 cups of water.

Additionally, it’s equipped with three detection modes that allow the user to control its operation. You can keep it activated only during the day or at night, or opt for 24/7 coverage. And the adjustable sensor means you can tilt it up or down for dealing with bigger animals and small insects, respectively.

Finally, it has a 30-minute watering cycle that makes it capable of being used as a conventional sprinkler for watering plants.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It may be helpful to know that this unit isn’t the most affordable deer repellent out there. But considering its efficiency and multi-purpose use, we don’t really mind spending those extra bucks.

6. Liquid Fence Deer & Rabbit Repellent

We’re back to liquid repellents with the Liquid Fence Deer & Rabbit Repellent. Its highly rain-resistant formula is ideal for keeping both deer and rabbits from munching on your plants round the year. Plus, the convenient packaging makes application a breeze.

Why Did We Like It?

The Liquid Fence Deer & Rabbit Repellent uses a strongly scented formula that’s dominated by putrescent egg solids and garlic compounds. Likewise, the remaining active and inert ingredients target the nose instead of the taste buds. Thus, it wards off animals even before they can take the first bite of your beloved greens.

Furthermore, the product is engineered to be extremely rain-resistant, meaning you don’t necessarily have to re-apply after moderate rains. And being a ready-to-use solution, there’s actually nothing more to do except spraying it on the plants.

In this regard, the container comes with a sprayer head attachment that has an adjustable nozzle for choosing the spray pattern. The directions advise using the repellent once a week for three weeks, and then reduce the frequency to once per month. Also, the smell may become less potent after a few applications, but rest assured that it remains effective for animals.

Lastly, it has a 32 oz bottle that’s perfect if you want to try out the product before using it regularly.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Unlike the Deer Out Deer Repellent, this solution requires a drying time of at least 5 hours, which can increase further depending on the weather conditions. Similarly, it’s not advised to apply the repellent on drenched or snow-clad plants to prevent dilution. 

7. Clear Sprouts Ultrasonic Animal Repellent

Now that we have arrived at the halfway mark, let’s talk about another popular ultrasonic repellent. The Clear Sprouts Ultrasonic Animal Repellent works round the year in all weather conditions for protecting your outdoor plants.

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Why Did We Like It?

This unit has a pretty similar mechanism to that of the Zomma Ultrasonic Animal Repellent. So, we didn’t have to rack our brains figuring out the operation. But even for first-timers, it won’t be very challenging to put it to use. The package comes with three pole-like sections and a repellent head. Post assembly, the one with the sharp ending is to be pushed into the ground.

Its Passive Infrared Sensor performs motion detection, and upon identifying any motion, sets off a 120dB alarm that’s mostly indistinct for humans. This sound scares away animals from a decent distance to negate the risk of deers munching on the leaves.

Moreover, it comes with 3 AA solar rechargeable batteries, which can be charged while still inside the unit. You can practically use it anywhere, from gardens, farmlands, to lawns and orchards. The only thing is that larger areas will require multiple units.

Complete with a 6-month warranty and responsive helpline, there’s hardly anything more we could’ve asked for for the super affordable price.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Given that the batteries don’t charge any other way, we feel the Clear Sprouts Ultrasonic Animal Repellent may not benefit areas that don’t receive a lot of sunlight throughout the year. 

8. Nature’s Mace Deer & Rabbit Granule

The Nature’s Mace Deer & Rabbit Granule is an environmentally-friendly repellent that works for various plants, including flowers, shrubs, vines, etc. If liquid repellents seem like too much  work, then its granular formula will cut out your task.

Why Did We Like It?

For starters, this solid animal repellent contains eco-friendly ingredients that are backed by university studies. Not only that, but it has more than 3 times the active ingredients compared to other options, which is a testimony to its efficiency. In addition, the even-sized granules won’t harm the roots when spread on the soil.

What we also love about this product is that it can double up as an organic nitrogen fertilizer for strengthening plant development and aid recovery. And being biodegradable, you don’t have to worry about residues that may clog the soil to block nutrient intake.

With a long feed time of about 3 months, the animals are repelled by a strong scent that may not always be identifiable by humans. Distribute the granules about 18-inch away from flowerbeds. Likewise, increase the barrier to approximately 24-inch for group plants. In areas troubled extensively by deer or rabbits, you may increase the dosage while expanding the barrier.

Finally, the container has an airtight lid that keeps the product from contamination. Considering the versatile utility, it comes across as one of the most cost-effective deer repellents.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Given its organic composition, it’s technically safe for animals and humans. But the bone meal ingredient can be particularly enticing for dogs, so you’d want to keep an eye on them.

9. Nite Guard Solar Predator Control Light

Having talked about odors, taste, audio, and water, it’s only fair for us to try a light repellent. The Nite Guard Solar Predator Control Light has a straightforward mechanism that doesn’t need constant monitoring. Besides, it can be used for varied areas.

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Why Did We Like It?

First and foremost, we were intrigued by the automatic operation of the device. Simply put, it automatically engages the light at dusk, which continues blinking through the night to prevent unwanted intrusion. 

As opposed to motion-sensing repellents, its activation doesn’t depend on detecting any movement. This is a significant advantage that many users prefer for both residential gardens and commercial farms.

Apart from that, there is no assembly or installation required. It starts working from the moment the black protecting tape covering the solar panel is removed. Long story short, the repellent charges all day and works all night- it’s that simple!

Furthermore, these units resemble security cameras and therefore are used to ‘alert’ intruders. They are increasingly used to protect garages, automobiles, RVs, and so on.

Last but not least, the waterproof construction makes it suitable for round the year use. If you’re searching for a product that repels deers with minimum human intervention, then the Nite Guard Solar Predator Control Light might just fit your needs.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Due to the low light intensity, it takes at least 4 units (tied to a pole) to protect a medium-sized area, and larger farms would need anywhere between 6 and 8 devices. Since it doesn’t come very cheap, the price is bound to be a constraint for potential users.

10. Hoont Motion Activated Ultrasonic Outdoor Animal Repeller

Featuring a robust all-weather plastic construction, the Hoont Motion Activated Ultrasonic Outdoor Animal Repeller uses a combination of sound and light to protect your garden. The no wiring design makes it ideal for anywhere use.

Why Did We Like It?

With its high-frequency audio and LED light, it’s safe to say that the Hoont Motion Activated Ultrasonic Outdoor Animal Repeller employs quite an aggressive mechanism. It’s equipped with 3 ultrasonic frequency settings, namely L (low), M (medium), and H (high). Thus, you can adjust the frequency in accordance with the animals that trouble you the most.

Additionally, the 7 sensitivity settings essentially control the PIR motion detection sensor. For instance, a low sensitivity setting is beneficial for detecting slower movements. Similarly, a high sensitivity setting helps identify faster movements like those of birds or pests. You’ll find both the dials (for frequency and sensitivity) located in the middle for easy access.

At the helm of affairs is the powerful LED light strobe that takes the versatility factor a notch higher by making it more competent for nighttime use. Not only can the batteries be charged via both sunlight and electricity, but the robust plastic construction can withstand almost any weather condition.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We observed that some frequency settings might be too loud for humans, especially children. Therefore, it’s advisable to deactivate the unit if you have kids playing in the backyard or patio. Understandably, some users may find the constant switch on/off task to be annoying.

11. Shake Away Deer Repellent Granules

As we near the end of our list, the Shake Away Deer Repellent Granules find a deserving entry. Its hassle-free application is backed by an effective formulation that affects deer grazing patterns for good.

Why Did We Like It?

Honestly, the Shake Away Deer Repellent Granules is nothing like anything we have tried before. And that’s because the formulation is based on a ‘predator-prey’ relation. While most other granule repellents focus on creating a scent that animals don’t like, this one produces an odor that taps the genetically programmed fear in deers. 

For this, it contains a substantial amount of coyote urine that mimics the presence of coyotes in the region. Since coyotes are known as the ‘animal versions of hunters’ for deers, they will generally avoid the area to prevent being harmed.

However, the non-toxic and organic nature of this product doesn’t cause them any pain or injury, apart from forming an elusive barrier. The granules are made from a porous, swellable, and inorganic mineral that’s weather resistant. By applying as per direction, users can get a long-lasting effect.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Firstly, the directions say that it might take as long as 3 weeks to show effective results. Hence, you may look for something else if you’re looking for results from the get-go. Secondly, a lot of users have complained about the poor packaging, which leads to product loss.

And although it costs less compared to the amount, we’d have liked a smaller container for trial purposes.

12. Easy Gardener Deer Netting

The convenience of garden nets got us interested in trying the easy Gardener Deer Netting. Made from flexible polypropylene, it makes for one of the best DIY deer repellents. The durability and elasticity are second to none!

Why Did We Like It?

Starting with the material, this deer netting is made from a special type of flexible polypropylene that allows plants to grow without getting torn. Hence, it comes as no surprise that the net can be used for smaller plants like shrubs or fodder. Moreover, it easily attaches to trees or poles for providing complete coverage for the garden.

Thanks to the pollination friendly construction, it’s an ideal match for organic gardens where pesticides can’t be used. And being reusable, you can always use it as a seasonal repellent for times when pests or animals attack the most.

The small openings are enough to stop the animals from laying feet or munching on the plant bed but don’t get them stuck. Hence, it’s completely safe for animals.

Lastly, the UV resistant material facilitates summer use minus any damage to the construction.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Although we have nothing against its efficiency for preventing intrusion by birds or similar smaller animals, we feel that keeping deers from feeding on the plants is likely to require double netting. So, we’d recommend buying sufficient to go two times over.

13. Deer Repel Deer Repellent

The Deer Repel Deer Repellent is a solid (but not granule) product that expels both deers and rabbits for a healthy growing garden. Apart from that, the pleasant scent won’t make your lawn stink, keeping it fresh throughout.

Why Did We Like It?

Speaking of first impressions, the black sealable pouch contains 10 netted pouches, which individually house a block of the repellant. In a nutshell, it’s nothing short of impressive! The blocks are, in turn, made from a long-lasting formula, which emits a powerful scent to drive away deers and rabbits.

Application-wise, it’s self-explanatory that all that’s required is for the user to hang them on tree branches or nearby poles. 

The no-chemical, 100% all-natural ingredients mean that you can handle them with your bare hands. Thus, there are potentially zero risks of allergies or burns. And being rain-resistant, you don’t need to bring them down or change the pouches frequently.

The 100% money-back guarantee offers peace of mind for dissatisfied users who don’t want their money to go down the drain.

What Could’ve Been Better?

The Deer Repel Deer Repellent may not be the best option for saplings as you possibly can’t find a way to tie them that low. And even if you do, the mild scent won’t be enough to annoy animals before they trample the pouch under their feet. That said, its utility for taller plants or trees isn’t an issue.

Deer Repellents Buyers’ Guide

At this point, you may have guessed that apart from the budget, the only other thing that matters during the purchase decision is the form. So, in the following sections, we quickly walk you through the characteristic features of each type. Unless you have your eyes set on only the brand aspect, do give it a read!

Types Of Deer Repellent

1. Taste-Based

Taste-based repellents make plants undesirable for deers by means of an unpleasant taste. Such products can come in both liquid and solid (granules) forms, and both will usually require reapplication after a said period. Since most repellents are made from natural ingredients, they won’t cause any harm.

That said, these repellents don’t stop deers from advancing per se because the taste factor only starts working once they have munched on the plants. So, it may take a long time for taste-based repellents to show results.

2. Scent-Based

Scent-based repellents are widely regarded as one of the most effective types as they work from a distance. We know for a fact that the supposedly appealing odor doesn’t bother humans, but it’s better to look out for other specifications like ‘no-stink’ or ‘minty smell’ written on the package.

Besides, a majority of the scent-based repellents have some sort of taste deterrent ingredients to cover the two main bases.

3. Garden Nets

If you aren’t in the mood for a lot of hassle, then garden nets are the best way to go about the job. The durable build resists the movement of animals (like deers) without hindering ventilation or pollination. 

However, some nets may lay too close to the plant, making them vulnerable to pecking by birds. In that case, you may have to raise the height of the net to restrict access by birds or smaller animals.

4. Ultrasonic Devices

Ultrasonic devices use frequencies, LED lights, or both to scare off animals. They have motion-sensing abilities, and the identification of animal movements sets them off. We are slightly in favor of those variants that have an adjustable frequency or sensitivity setting so that you can customize them for different animals.

Another thing to keep in mind is that most ultrasonic devices use solar rechargeable batteries, so adequate sunlight should be ensured while positioning them. Otherwise, you can also opt for one that has both solar and electric powered rechargeable batteries.

On the other hand, a repeller that automatically engages operation in low light conditions and switches-off at the onset of sunlight is preferable to get rid of nocturnal animals.

5. Sprinkler Repeller

Sprinkler repellers work in the same way as normal water repellers- by spraying a water jet upon sensing movement. Some units are also equipped with a sensor that can differentiate between animal movement and swaying of trees with the wind to prevent water wastage.

Verdict

With that, it’s a wrap for the day!

What appears as harmless grazing today may well turn into destruction sooner than you realize. So, now is the time to bring home a deer repellent. And while you carefully measure out the advantages and disadvantages of our recommendations, allow us to name our favorites to assist you further. 

The Deer Out Ready-To-Use Repellent is an effective liquid repellent, and the De-Bird Heavy Duty Garden Netting can be used as a fencing or garden screen. And if you’re on the hunt for something technical, we’d advise you to check out the Zomma Ultrasonic Animal Repellent or the Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Sprinkler.

With that, we’ll take your leave. Till the next time, take care!

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