Deer-Proof with Meat Mead

Credit: Terry Guscott

For the past two years I have been using meat meal to deter deer. At the first sign of deer I lightly sprinkle it around the garden and reapply it every month until the end of the season. I have tried both blood meal and bone meal, but meat meal seems more potent and performs even after a rain. But be warned, dogs are attracted to it, so store it in a plastic bucket out of their reach and be sure to apply it lightly and rake it well into the soil. Be aware also that you can’t tie it in old hose and hang it in trees, because racoons will untie your sacks and enjoy it.

Notwithstanding these disadvantages, I find that it does keep the deer out and love to recommend it to my friends. You can find meat meal at most feed stores and some garden stores.