When winter arrives, snow and freezing temperatures are only part of the challenge. Hungry deer can stress your landscape. At Rick’s Certified Arborists, we see an increase in calls each year from homeowners dealing with stripped Arborvitae, damaged Yews, and injured young Maples. If you’re already asking how to protect trees from deer or how to keep deer from eating shrubs in winter, you’re on the right track. The question is whether a Deer Repellent Fence or Deer Repellent Sprays will serve you better. Here’s what to consider as you choose the right option for your property.
Why Deer Cause More Damage in Winter
Deer activity rises in winter because food becomes scarce. As snow covers their usual forage, deer move to the next available option: your landscaping.
From late fall through early spring, they munch on buds, twigs, and bark. Repeated feeding strips bark, breaks branches, and permanently alters growth patterns. Viburnum, Hollly, Rhododendrons, and Arborvitae face the highest risk.
Dormant plants cannot recover quickly. Damaged tissue that stays exposed weakens plants and limits spring growth. Early protection helps prevent lasting harm.
Additionally, deer metabolism increases in warmer winters, such as the ones we’ve had in recent years. During cold snaps, their metabolism slows, and they don’t actually eat much at all. Once the temperatures rise again, though, they go back from not eating for days at a time to seeking out more plants, and that’s when local landscaping really takes a hit.
How to Keep Deer from Eating Shrubs in Winter
To protect shrubs in winter, we recommend fencing, repellents, or a combination of both. Each method has strengths, and many properties benefit from a layered approach.
At Rick’s Certified Arborists, we often pair physical barriers in key areas with repellents throughout the broader landscape. We evaluate layout, deer pressure, and plant species to create a focused plan.
What a Deer Repellent Fence Is and How It Works
A Deer Repellent Fence is a four-foot barrier around shrubs to deter deer from having easy access.
When installed correctly, fencing offers dependable protection. Exclusion fencing can help reduce deer damage in high-pressure areas.
Benefits of a Deer Repellent Fence
- Long-term protection that withstands weather
- Consistent effectiveness regardless of deer behavior
- A strong option for high-value landscapes or frequent deer visits
- Defends against antler damage to a tree’s trunk
Drawbacks to Consider
- Higher initial investment
- Potential visual impact in open or front-facing areas
- Occasional maintenance after heavy snow
Common Types of Deer Fencing
| Fence Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| High-tensile mesh | Durable, low-visibility | Higher installation cost |
| Electric fencing | Effective in rural areas | Requires power and upkeep |
| Seasonal netting | Affordable, removable | Less sturdy, shorter lifespan |
Our team uses high-tensile, durable black mesh with heavy-duty green posts to protect our client’s plants.
Do Deer Repellents Work in Winter?
Deer Repellents can work in winter with consistent use and proper timing. At Rick’s, we rely on DeerPro Winter blend, which is strictly a taste deterrent without foul or strong odors. Conventional Repellents rely on strong scents or bitter tastes, such as garlic oil, capsaicin, or spoiled egg solids.
Winter weather reduces their longevity. Snow and freezing rain can wash products away or weaken them, so regular reapplication is essential.
How Often to Reapply
One application of DeerPro Winter protects your landscape for the entire dormant season, however other repellents may need to be reapplied every 4 to 6 weeks, especially after heavy rain. Waiting until damage appears often results in Deer returning to the same plants.
Pros of Deer Repellents
- Lower cost than fencing
- Easy to apply to targeted plants
- Practical for short-term or seasonal needs
Fencing vs. Repellents: What to Choose
Fencing provides stronger, more reliable protection, particularly in areas with heavy deer activity. Repellents offer flexibility and affordability, which works well for smaller plants or specific beds.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Deer Repellent Fence | Repellents |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher upfront | Lower, ongoing |
| Maintenance | Occasional checks | 1 application with DeerPro |
| Effectiveness | Very high | Moderate to high with upkeep |
| Aesthetic impact | Visible | Minimal |
| Best for | Beds, shrubs and plants against houses | Large areas, valuable Trees |
Many properties benefit from a hybrid strategy that uses fencing in the most vulnerable zones and repellents elsewhere. We help you build a plan that fits your landscape and goals.
When to Start Winter Deer Protection
Begin in late fall, early December. This timing places protection before deer begin active browsing. This also lets you lay down protection before snow limits access.
Preventing the first bite is crucial. Deer form habits and continue returning to known food sources, even after deterrents are added. We recommend assessing your property early and setting protection before the first frost.
How Rick’s Certified Arborists Protect Your Trees
At Rick’s Certified Arborists, we focus on plant health care. Our 100% Certified team supports long-term growth. Our winter deer protection services include:
- On-site assessments of deer activity and plant vulnerability
- Custom fencing options for partial or full coverage
- Strategic repellent applications with commercial-grade products
- Ongoing support through our Custom Tree Care Program
Whether you’re protecting a single Japanese Maple or a full privacy screen, we build a plan that fits your needs and budget.
FAQs About Winter Deer Protection
What plants are most vulnerable in winter?
Deer frequently target Arborvitae, Yews, Rhododendrons, Schip Laurels, Viburnum, Eounymus, and White Pine because they offer soft bark or evergreen foliage when other food sources are scarce.
Can I use DIY Deer Repellents?
DIY options are available, but they tend to be less effective than commercial products. Consistent timing and coverage play a key role in results.
What if I already see damage?
You can still limit further harm. Apply repellents promptly and add temporary fencing around affected plants. Existing damage cannot be reversed, but you can prevent additional stress.
Final Thoughts: Start Early
Winter deer damage is preventable. With the right mix of a Deer Repellent Fence and well-timed Spray Repellent Applications, you can protect your landscape throughout the season.
If you’re part of our Customer Care Program, this is a good time to schedule your Winter Inspection. If you’re new to us, Rick’s Certified Arborists can assess your property, identify risks, and create a winter protection plan that supports your landscape’s long-term health. Act early so deer do not turn your yard into a winter food source.
