Netting Solutions to Protect Plants from Deer and Rabbits

Gardeners and homeowners often face the challenge of protecting their plants from hungry wildlife such as deer and rabbits. These animals can cause significant damage by nibbling on leaves, stems, buds, and even roots, leading to stunted growth or the death of cherished plants. While there are many deterrents available—from chemical repellents to fencing—one of the most effective, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing methods is using netting solutions.

In this article, we will explore various netting options designed to protect plants from deer and rabbits, discuss their benefits and limitations, and provide practical tips on installation and maintenance to ensure your garden thrives without becoming a wildlife buffet.

Why Protect Plants from Deer and Rabbits?

Before diving into netting solutions, it’s important to understand why deer and rabbits pose such a threat to gardens.

• Deer are large herbivores with a diet that includes leaves, buds, fruits, and bark. They can cause severe damage in a short time, especially during early spring when vegetation is tender.
• Rabbits, while smaller, feed voraciously on new shoots, young plants, and even bulbs underground. Their nibbling can devastate seedlings and perennial plants alike.

Damage caused by these animals not only results in loss of plants but also wastes time and money invested in gardening efforts. Traditional methods such as fencing or chemical deterrents may work but often come with drawbacks like high cost, maintenance needs, or environmental concerns.

Netting as an Effective Plant Protection Strategy

Netting provides a physical barrier that prevents deer and rabbits from reaching the plants without harming the animals or the environment. It allows sunlight, air circulation, and water penetration while keeping pests at bay.

Benefits of Using Netting

• Non-toxic: Unlike chemical repellents or pesticides, netting doesn’t introduce harmful substances into your garden.
• Cost-effective: Once purchased and installed properly, netting can last for several seasons.
• Easy installation: Many netting types are lightweight and flexible for quick setup.
• Versatility: Suitable for protecting everything from individual plants to entire garden beds.
• Wildlife-friendly: Netting avoids trapping or injuring animals when used correctly.

Types of Netting to Protect Against Deer and Rabbits

Different nettings cater to different needs depending on the type of animal you want to keep out, plant size, garden layout, and aesthetic preferences.

1. Deer Netting

Deer netting is specifically designed with mesh sizes that prevent deer from poking their noses through to reach plants. The mesh hole size typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8–5 cm), large enough to allow light and moisture but small enough to block deer.

Features:

• Made from durable polyethylene or nylon.
• UV resistant for long-term outdoor use.
• Usually green or black in color to blend with natural surroundings.
• Comes in rolls or pre-cut panels.

Uses:

• Surrounding young trees or shrubs.
• Covering vegetable patches or flower beds.
• Wrapping around individual plants prone to deer browsing.

2. Rabbit Netting (Chicken Wire)

Rabbit netting typically involves chicken wire or hardware cloth with smaller mesh holes (around 0.5 inches or 1.27 cm). This prevents rabbits from squeezing through gaps or digging underneath.

Features:

• Galvanized steel wire for rust resistance.
• Stiff enough to hold shape but flexible enough for easy handling.
• Often used with stakes or frames.

Uses:

• Creating raised beds with enclosed sides.
• Constructing protective cages around individual plants.
• Installing along fences at ground level to deter burrowing rabbits.

3. Floating Row Covers

Floating row covers are lightweight fabric nets that lay directly over plants without requiring a frame. Although originally designed for frost protection, they also serve as barriers against small mammals like rabbits.

Features:

• Made from spun-bonded polyester or polypropylene materials.
• Translucent white color allows sunlight penetration.
• Lightweight yet durable for season-long use.

Uses:

• Covering vegetable seedlings in early spring.
• Protecting low-growing herbs and flowers.
• Temporary use during peak animal activity periods.

4. Plastic Mesh Netting

Plastic mesh netting is a versatile option available in various mesh sizes suitable for both deer and rabbits depending on the spacing.

Features:

• Made of UV-stabilized plastic that resists weather damage.
• Available in green or black colors.
• Easy to cut and customize shapes.

Uses:

• Wrapping around tree trunks or flower beds.
• Creating temporary enclosures in larger gardens.
• Integrating with other fencing methods for added protection.

How to Choose the Right Netting Solution

Selecting the appropriate netting depends on several factors:

Type of Animal

If deer are your primary concern, choose larger mesh deer netting; if rabbits are causing damage, opt for smaller mesh wire like chicken wire or fine plastic mesh.

Size of Plants

For small seedlings or low-growing plants, floating row covers work well; for taller shrubs or trees, rigid netting supported by stakes will be necessary.

Garden Layout

Large open areas might benefit from full perimeter fencing using deer netting combined with posts; smaller container gardens can be protected by individual cages made of chicken wire.

Durability Needs

Consider UV resistance and material strength based on how long you intend the barrier to stay up—seasonal protection versus multi-year use requires different products.

Installation Tips for Effective Protection

Proper installation is crucial for netting to function efficiently:

1. Measure Your Plants: Ensure your netting will fully cover your plants with some room for growth.
2. Secure Edges: Fasten net edges firmly into the soil using stakes or landscape staples to prevent animals from squeezing underneath.
3. Avoid Gaps: Check carefully for holes where animals might enter; seal any openings promptly.
4. Create Frames When Necessary: Use lightweight stakes or PVC pipes to create structures that keep netting off delicate foliage preventing damage.
5. Monitor Regularly: Inspect your netted areas frequently for tears or sagging; repair immediately if found.

Maintenance and Seasonal Considerations

Nettings require some care throughout the year:

• Remove snow buildup in winter that could damage lightweight covers.
• Clean debris from mesh surfaces so sunlight isn’t blocked excessively.
• Store nets properly during off-seasons—clean them first before folding tightly in dry storage areas to prolong life span.

Additional Tips Beyond Netting

While netting is highly effective on its own, combining it with other strategies improves success:

• Use natural repellents like garlic spray around planting areas as an added deterrent.
• Plant species less attractive to deer/rabbits alongside vulnerable ones as “sacrificial” crops.
• Maintain clean garden borders free of brush where animals might hide before accessing your garden.

Conclusion

Protecting your garden from deer and rabbits does not need to be a constant battle if you employ effective physical barriers such as netting solutions. By selecting proper types of netting tailored for these specific pests—whether it’s coarse deer netting, fine rabbit chicken wire, floating row covers, or plastic meshes—you create a safe haven where your plants can flourish undisturbed.

With thoughtful installation and regular upkeep, these nettings provide an environmentally friendly method that respects wildlife while preserving the beauty and productivity of your garden space. Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, fruit trees, or ornamental shrubs, investing in quality protective netting can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Embrace this simple yet smart approach today and enjoy a thriving garden free from unwanted nibblers!