Fencing, wire cages and plastic netting are the most cost-effective deer damage controls in many circumstances. Woven wire fences 8 feet high are very effective barriers to deer, but are cost effective for only the most valuable crops and ornamental plantings. High tensile electric fence designs have been developed which are less costly and almost as effective as tall woven wire fences. When prorated over their expected life spans, fences are often more cost effective than repellent spray programs. Individual cages and plastic netting are effective controls for small plantings or individual plants.
Physical barriers are the only effective means of preventing antler-rubbing damage.
Chemical Repellents . A variety of commercial deer repellents are labeled for use in New England. A variety of home remedies have been reported to effectively repel deer. However, these products may be less cost effective than commercial repellents when their labor requirements are considered in the total application cost. In addition, their effectiveness is often highly variable and their long-term impact on the environment has not been studied.