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If you’re an avid gardener or take great pride in your home’s landscaping, you may struggle with pest control and keeping deer out of your yard. Deer repellent scares deer away, preventing them from entering your property, eating your plants, and destroying your lawn.
However, selecting the best deer repellent for your home can depend on a variety of factors such as the size of your lawn, what types of plants you have, and if you’re also dealing with other critters in your yard. You can expect to spend between $15 to $40 on average, while larger or more permanent repellents can cost $100 or more. Overall, my pick for the best deer repellent is the Deer Out Concentrate Deer Repellent, which is pet-friendly and has a peppermint scent that’s pleasant for humans but drives deer away. Read the guide below for more of my top picks.
Top 5 Deer Repellents
- Best Overall: Deer Out Concentrate Deer Repellent
- Longest Lasting: Bobbex Concentrated Deer Repellent
- Best Sprinkler: Orbit Motion-Activated Sprinkler Set
- Best for Nighttime: Nite Guard Predator Control Light
- Best Spray: I Must Garden Deer Repellent Spray
Compare Top Deer Repellents
| Product | Targets | Repellent Type | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deer Out Concentrate Deer Repellent | Multiple species | Liquid concentrate | 32 ounces |
| Bobbex Concentrated Deer Repellent | Multiple species | Liquid concentrate | 2.5 gallons |
| Orbit Motion-Activated Sprinkler Set | Multiple species | Sprinkler | 2 units |
| Nite Guard Predator Control Light | Multiple species | Light | 4 units |
| I Must Garden Deer Repellent Spray | Deer only | Liquid spray | 32 ounces |
| Product | Targets | Repellent Type | Quantity |
Best Scent
Deer Out Concentrate Deer Repellent
- $38.95
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Homeowners looking for a repellent without harsh chemicals that’s affordable and works on a variety of large mammals.
What Are People Saying About the Deer Out Concentrate Deer Repellent?
I found that customers liked that this product had a pleasant scent, covered a large area, and was easy to apply. However, I also noted some unsatisfied customers claimed that it was ineffective even with frequent application. Others were unhappy with the packaging, claiming that the bottle leaked easily.
“So far, this is effective in keeping deer away. Its smell is not unpleasant (better than some other products). It has a long shelf life, and it lasts four weeks between applications.” — Professional Software Developer via Amazon
“I have been spraying weekly (over-spraying based on the directions that say monthly), and the deer are still eating the flowers and shrubs. It has not been raining in my area, so it is not washing off. The smell is pretty bad – I would not call this a “minty fresh scent.” Cannot recommend.” — Joe via Amazon
Longest Lasting
Bobbex Concentrated Deer Repellent
- $250
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Homeowners with a large properties looking for a year-round repellent that will last a long time.
What Are People Saying About the Bobbex Concentrated Deer Repellent?
I team found that those who were happy with this repellent liked that it had a simple application, worked quickly to repel deer, and was long-lasting. However, those that were unhappy said that it had an overwhelming scent. Others claimed that Bobbex changed its formula, leading to a less effective product.
“I have been using for years. The deer live about the neighborhood and just graze on my evergreens, hosta, Lilly flowers, and anything else that happen to take a liking to. When plants are sprayed with repellent the deer leave the plants alone. Repellent is long-lasting – spray two to three times throughout the year. Protects the arborvitae throughout the winter too.” — Devil’s Dung via Amazon
“We have extensive gardens but live in deer country. It is a love/hate relationship, but either spray this foul-smelling stuff regularly or maybe charge the deer for all the meals. It is effective if used regularly and started early in the season but don’t invite guests over the same day as spraying. It does not wash off the plants as quickly as other deer repellents we have used.” — Steven L. Cochran via Amazon
Best Sprinkler
Orbit Motion-Activated Sprinkler Set
- $141.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Anyone seeking a motion-activated deer deterrent that doesn’t require any maintenance.
What Are People Saying About the Orbit Motion-Activated Sprinkler Set?
Happy customers liked that this sprinkler was sturdy, warded off various species, and had a large motion-detection range. However, I also noticed that customers who left negative reviews for this sprinkler said that its parts were made of cheap materials. They also said that its sensor was too sensitive, activating when it wasn’t supposed to.
“I had major issues with deer in the garden and flowers – front and back of the house. Once I installed these sprinklers and adjusted them, that stopped. Neighbors are still being visited by deer, but they pass my flowers and garden right up. Probably going to order another one to extend the coverage.” —Charles Martin via Amazon
“The motion-activated sprinkler seems to work okay. The range is definitely not 40′, closer to 20. Be very careful setting the ground stake. It’s very thin metal and will warp and crack if your soil is not very soft. If you’re in clay or rockier soil, you’ll have to pre-dig a hole. My stake bent on the first rocking motion.” — Gabriel and Maggie via Amazon
Best For Nighttime
Nite Guard Predator Control Light
- $16.82
- $24.99
- 33% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Homeowners looking for a way to repel deer and other animals that come in during the night.
What Are People Saying About the Nite Guard Predator Control Light?
I found that customers liked that these lights lasted for long periods of time, were easy to install, and didn’t stop working after rainfall. However, I also noted that those who were unhappy claimed that the lights weren’t always effective at scaring off deer or raccoons. Others were displeased that they weren’t motion-activated.
“We bought four of these lights last summer and mounted them on a four-or-five foot post so they’d face in all directions. They definitely keep the deer away. We’ve had all of our plants, flowers, and veggies mowed down by deer over the past few years (we’re in New England). We also are concerned about deer ticks and Lyme disease. You have to be sure to move the lights every two weeks or so. Otherwise, the deer learn not to be afraid and will ignore the lights.” — SF via Amazon
“It’s hard to evaluate how many “predators” may have been deterred from entering our space, but be aware of your needs when choosing to buy the Nite Guard. We live in a high mountain community with active brown bears searching for food at night. Some neighbors recently purchased the Nite Guard, but it did not deter a bear who was acclimated to the neighborhood and knew where to find garbage. On the other hand, we have had no more deer nibbling on our flower beds.” — Dennis D. Schurter via Amazon
Best Spray
I Must Garden Deer Repellent Spray
- $15.49
- $19.99
- 23% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Homeowners looking for an easy-application spray repellent that’s safe around pets and plants.
What Are People Saying About the I Must Garden Deer Repellent Spray?
The majority of customers I found who reviewed this deer repellent spray said that it was effective in warding off deer and protecting their plants. Customers also liked that the spray was easy to apply and spray as needed. However, I also noted that several users complained that the spray didn’t last as long as they wanted it to, requiring frequent reapplication.
“I haven’t seen a deer around my flowers since I started using this, so I think it’s working. It also doesn’t smell bad like some other sprays. So far, I’m happy with this product.” — Sterling Brown via Amazon
“Hoping this product would do better than other solutions like this item, but still no remedy to stopping deer from eating whatever they want to eat. Does have a better smell than other products, but I wouldn’t say it’s actually a mint smell. As with other products, may do a little to deter them, but if the deer want to eat the plant, they are going to eat it no matter what’s on it.” —RD via Amazon
Buying Guide to Deer Repellents
Since repellents come in many forms, it’s not easy to determine which one will work for your deer problem. Before determining which deer repellent is best for your personal needs, you should take time to consider factors such as whether you prefrer mechanical, electronic, taste-based, or scent-based repellents. This will largely depend on your budget and how much damage deer are doing to your plants.
After you’ve made that determination, you can also consider factors such as your local climate, the quantity of the repellent, its weather-resistance, its longevity, and whether it will also work on other creatures such as racoons, rabbits, and squirrels.
Read the buying guide below for more information on selecting the best deer repellent for your home.
What are the different types of deer repellent?
Several types of repellents keep deer and other wildlife away from your garden.
Mechanical
Mechanical repellents, such as fencing and netting, physically keep deer out of your yard. This option is typically time-consuming to install. Plus, because deer are crafty, they’re often able to find alternative routes in.
Electronic
Electronic repellents, such as sprinklers or lights, startle deer with light, water, sound, or motion. These repellents typically rely on batteries, electrical outlets, or the sun’s rays for power.
Taste-Based
These repellents won’t stop deer from entering your yard, but they will ideally stop them from coming back. They usually come in liquid form and are applied directly to your plants. Their unattractive flavor deters deer after they eat a covered leaf.
Scent-Based
Scent-based repellents target a deer’s keen sense of smell with mint, clove, and other fragrances that are undesirable to them. These sprayers can work on plants and various hard surfaces like wood fencing.
How does climate affect deer repellent?
Your climate may affect the type of repellent that works in your yard year-round. For example, many spray repellents need to be reapplied after precipitation, so if you live in a high-rainfall area, that may not be the right option. Additionally, you typically can’t use a sprinkler system in cold areas because it could freeze.
How do you determine the longevity of a specific deer repellent?
When choosing a deer-repellent spray, look for one that is reasonably weather and rain-resistant. The manufacturer should list how long the product will last between applications.
Additionally, if you opt for an electronic device, keep in mind that deer are intelligent creatures and can often figure out ways around it. To avoid this, try moving your device to different parts of your yard every few months to prevent deer from getting used to a particular placement or pattern.
Do deer repellents fend off other unwanted critters?
Other unwanted critters, such as raccoons, squirrels, cats, skunks, and rabbits, can also cause headaches in your lawn and garden. If you’re experiencing issues with more than just deer, look for a repellent that’s also labeled for repelling other animals.
Deer-Resistant Plants
While using deer repellent is a great way to keep your garden safe from deer, you can also try planting vegetation that deer aren’t interested in. While I can’t guarantee that deer won’t eat these plants, the following options are among the least attractive to them:
Grasses
Most ornamental grasses can resist deer. Common ornamental grasses that may flourish in your area can include giant reed, fescue, flame grass, sedge, and pampas grass.
Shrubs
Japanese Pieris, Bluebeard, and Eastern red cedar shrubs are either repulsive or at least not attractive to deer. Planting a “fence” of mini shrubs around precious flowers that deer may like could defend your flowers against deer.
The below video offers tips on how to deer-proof your shrubs.
Flowers
Poppies, foxgloves, and daffodils are known to be toxic to deer, so they’re likely to stay away from these flowers when strategically placed around your backyard. Peonies, pachysandra, irises, and lavender also work well to keep most deer at bay.
Trees
Deer tend to steer away from various flowering trees, including bayberries, cinquefoil, spruce trees, fragrant lilacs, and Japanese flowering cherries. Below, you can check out how to protect your small trees from deer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deer Repellents
How do you apply liquid deer repellent?
Liquid repellent can often be applied directly to the plants or areas that you’re trying to protect. If it’s a pre-mixed solution, that it often comes with a spray head to apply directly from the bottle. Concentrates, on the other hand, need to be mixed with water and poured into a spray bottle.
Should I water my plants after applying deer repellent?
After using deer repellent on plants, you usually want to wait for them to dry before watering them. However, I would also recommend checking the individual product description to determine the proper amount of time between application and irrigation.
What smells work best at deterring deer?
Some smells that deer react negatively to include eggs, garlic, cloves, and mint. The scent of danger is also effective at driving deer off, so applying predator-related scents, such as wolf urine, may work.
What do deer see in plants?
Primarily, deer are attracted to the smells of plants and view plants as food. They’ll often nibble on plants and may return to eat them entirely. The most effective deer repellent doesn’t just scare them away, but makes your plants unappetizing.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of deer repellents with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final short list, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
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