We have both daylilies and hostas. We get a lot of deer so we spray sometimes twice a week. We also alternate sprays so that they don't get used to one and start eating. We had fawns left in our yard overnight by their mothers this year but fortunately we didn't have much damage. Friends of ours who live in more rural areas use netting on the edge of their property stapled to 6 foot high stakes. But, this year the deer who are usually deterred by any barrier, dove under the netting. Of course a large dog that just chased them away would be perfect but ours would probably join them! : - )

What kind of sprays do you use?

We have two large dogs and that keeps the deer from coming close during the day, however, at night is when any damage takes place (when the dogs are sleeping inside) :(

Effectively chosen, installed and maintained deer fencing works the best. I know of a nursery site that was fenced some years ago for about 300 dollars. How much do you want to pay over the years for sprays - that you have to mix and apply at frequent intervals indefinitely into the future?

best tip.. move .. lol ...

ken

Love to move but need that lottery!

I had deer ravaging my Hostas, too, but found Liquid Fence to be an excellent deterrent.

I will try some sprays and maybe liquid fence.

Building a fence might work but I don't think it's the right solution for us. The openness is one of the nicest things about where we live. The deer damage would have to get REALLY bad before we fenced everything off :\

Also, should I do anything with the eaten leaf stems or the things (scapes?) with the eaten flowers?
A leaf of my Ambrosia and my little vase-shaped NOID were each eaten last night too :( I'm seriously considering moving them all somewhere else... but I don't know where.

I'd leave the munched parts on the plant for now.

You should act sooner than later to deter the deer so the 'salad bar' isn't imprinted on their memory.

There are several spray products on the market to try. Alternating between them is a good idea.

As I understand it, some sprays have a smell and some are absorbed into the leaves leaving a residual bad taste.

I have smeared daubs of Vick's vapor rub (or generic works too) low and 'nose high' on the trees around the approach to my yard. I also smear dabs on edging and around the yard near the beds. My theory is deer don't like the smell and hopefully will avoid those areas. It's greasy and doesn't wash off.

Deer Out. It has a minty smell; you don't have to apply it as often as Liquid Fence, and it works for me.

Vicks Vaborrub is part of my artillery, neighbors who hunt are useful, too.

MIx two eggs well (blender speed mixer) in a gallon water - add some garlic powder and cayenne - spray and the deer stay away. As well your yard will smell like a Caeser's Salad to your neighbors and friends.

Have to re-spray when dew is heavy or it rains or twice a week when they are present daily. Add other spices to vary the taste as well.

Bruce