As spring unfolds and the ground becomes conducive for construction work, I am poised to undertake the creation of a substantial and hopefully formidable fence. The goal is to safeguard the young orchard I planted last summer, ensuring it remains untouched by hungry deer.

In anticipation of this project, extensive research has been conducted to determine the optimal fence specifications. Questions like height, strength, and special considerations have been thoroughly explored.

After careful consideration, I’ve decided on erecting an eight-foot barrier using black plastic deer fence. Throughout this journey, I’ve gathered valuable insights and tips that I’m eager to apply. If you’re contemplating a similar project to keep deer at bay in your orchard or garden, let me share these five learned insights, saving you the time and effort of additional research.

1. Make the Deer Fence Tall

Deer, known for their remarkable athleticism, can leap considerable heights. It is widely recommended that a singular, upright deer fence should be a minimum of eight feet tall to thwart their jumping abilities.

2. If the Fence Isn’t Tall, Make It Deep

An alternative to a tall fence involves constructing two shorter fences positioned one inside the other, with a gap of five or six feet between them. Since deer struggle to jump both high and far simultaneously, this double barrier proves effective. Additionally, slanting a taller fence outward creates a broader and seemingly more challenging obstacle for deer, especially considering their poor eyesight.

3. Make Sure the Bottom Is Secure

If jumping is not an option, deer may attempt to navigate under the fence. For plastic and welded wire fences, it is crucial to secure the bottom to the ground between posts. Without this measure, persistent deer might explore the base and potentially crawl underneath. A practical solution involves using ordinary metal tent stakes to anchor the fence approximately every six feet.

4. Limit Space Between Posts

Deer exert significant pressure on fencing, so it’s advisable to avoid spacing posts too far apart. Wide post intervals place additional stress on the fence itself (typically the weakest link) rather than on the robust posts. This setup increases the risk of sagging between posts, potentially enticing deer to leap over. Maintaining an ideal distance of eight to 12 feet between posts is recommended.

5. Attach Warning Ribbons

Deer may find it challenging to perceive black plastic and welded wire fences, posing a risk of accidental collisions. To address this, brightly colored ribbons can be tied between posts to serve as visual markers, warning deer of the barrier’s presence. It’s essential, however, not to affix the ribbons to the top of the fence, as tying them about four feet above the ground provides a more accurate depiction of the fence’s height.

Best of luck in your endeavor to keep the deer at bay with your well-considered fencing strategies. As you embark on the construction of an eight-foot barrier made from black plastic deer fence, your careful attention to the nuances of deer behavior and the potential challenges they pose reflects a commendable dedication to safeguarding your orchard. Whether through the imposition of height, depth, or secure bottom attachments, your comprehensive approach aims to outsmart the agility of these persistent creatures. By strategically limiting space between posts and incorporating warning ribbons, you’re not only enhancing the structural integrity of the fence but also addressing potential visibility issues for the deer. May these thoughtful measures contribute to a successful defense against the hungry deer and ensure the flourishing growth of your orchard throughout the seasons.