There are many ways to keep deer away from those all-you-can-eat buffets we love to put out for them.  A good source of information on these methods is available on-line from the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program at http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74117.html 

   At Gold Rush, we believe the most practical, effective and economical methods of coping with deer are (1) protecting young shrubs and trees with a cage until they're above the browsing level and (2) planting deer resistant plants. 

   Excluding deer from planted areas with an 8-10' high fence may also be an option.  However, fences can be expensive.  They may also be impractical depending on the size of your property and the terrain. 

   If fencing all your property isn't feasible, consider fencing off just a portion of it to protect valued plants from hungry deer.

Protecting shrubs and trees with cages

   When planting shrubs and trees, we recommend protecting them from hungry deer with a wire cage.  Leave the cage in place until the plant is well established and able to withstand some browsing, or until it has grown above the browsing height (5-7').  

Deer resistant plants

   We compiled our list of deer resistant plants by combining our own experiences with those of other local nurseries and landscape professionals. 

   Please remember this is a list of deer resistant plants, not deer proof!  Remember too that deer tastes change.  What they left alone last week, may be munched on tonight, especially if there are limited food sources in the wild. 

   Finally, no plant on our list comes with a guarantee!  However, please email us with your own experiences so we can make this list one of the best resources for the Bay Area.