by Connie Oswald Stofko
We have already accumulated so many tips on keeping gardens safe from rabbits, deer and other pests that it surprises me to find that gardeners have found even more clever ways to deal with critters. Here are more tips that local gardeners have shared with me.
Deer and rabbits
Previously, we told you that placing dryer sheets in your garden could keep deer and rabbits away, but when the smell goes out of the dryer sheets, you have to replace them with fresh dryer sheets. A gardener suggested just spraying the dryer sheets with Febreeze to refresh the smell.
Birds
To prevent birds from eating the fruit in her Montmorency cherry tree, one gardener put small stuffed animals all over the branches of her tree. She says it works well.
For berry bushes, you can install simple netting, and here are tips on how to keep birds from nesting in your hanging baskets.
Mosquitos
If you don’t want to be bothered by mosquitos when you’re sitting in your yard, use an electric fan. The breeze can be enough to keep the insects at bay. (Be safe; don’t use indoor appliances in the rain!)
A friend told me to hang scraps of bath soap near Hostas to keep the deer from demolishing them. Irish Spring soap seems to be the most effective.
Yes, Irish Spring has a strong scent. I’ve used it for rabbits. Thanks for sharing!