1. Use nets. Netting is my most recommended solution against common animal pests in the garden and they also protect against a variety of insects. I prefer nets because they are an affordable easy solution to a problem that is likely to keep on existing. Insect nets are tighter with microscopic air holes to protect against insects and animals. Deer netting has visibly wider holes and keeps the animals from getting past it to the plants. Nets can be draped over the plants, supported like a tent, hung from an awning, or tall poles, to form covered sections.

2. Consider fencing. Fencing is the best way to keep major animals out of the garden but they need to be at least 6 feet tall and a foot deep to prevent the majority from entering. There are a variety of fencing options, such as wood, wire, metal, wrought iron, gabion, and thick net like materials. Design your fence based on your long term and short term needs, and consider what it might block from view. Fencing can also be used for vertical gardening giving it an added benefit over some of the other options.

3. Use a sound deterrent. You can buy a sound deterrent or make one for your garden that will scare of most critters from coming around. Tin or aluminum cans strung together make a quick and easy sound deterrent. Ultrasonic animal deterrents stop animals by omitting a very low tone that humans don’t hear. You could also use an AM/FM radio, set to a low volume at all times in the garden area, to prevent animals from coming in.

4. Install a light deterrent. Motion sensor lights scare animals and make them feel exposed, two things they are not so comfortable with. Lights can deter many animals from your garden including, bears, coyotes, deer, skunks, raccoons, fox, rabbits, and possums.

5. Incorporate smell deterrents. Animals are very sensitive to certain scents and many are repelled by a variety of smells. Strong herbs, such as, lavender, mint, and sage are not their favorites and may deter animals from your garden. Human hair and urine have been known to keep a variety of animals out because your scent is a deterrent. Almost all animals are deterred by ammonia. Sprinkling certain spices like cinnamon, chili powder, and pepper spices, to the garden area will likely deter a few critters too, especially squirrels and rabbits.