Moose in the Garden: Prevention and Deterrence
Moose are magnificent creatures, but they can be a nuisance in gardens. These large herbivores have a voracious appetite and can quickly decimate your favorite plants. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to deter moose from your garden.
Understanding Moose Behavior
Moose are primarily grazers, feeding on a variety of plants, including native and ornamental species. They are not picky eaters and will consume anything from vegetables to hedges. Their large size and strength make them formidable opponents, so keeping them out of your garden can be challenging.
Traditional Moose Deterrents
Many traditional moose deterrents have been passed down through generations of gardeners. These methods include:
- Human hair: Moose are not particularly bothered by human hair, but it can be somewhat effective when used in conjunction with other deterrents.
- Dish soap spray: A spray made with dish soap, water, and cayenne pepper or ground-up hot chilies can irritate moose and deter them from eating your plants.
- Irish Spring soap: Some gardeners claim that chipping up Irish Spring soap and sprinkling it around the perimeter of the garden helps repel moose.
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers can also be effective in keeping moose out of your garden. These include:
- Tall fences: Barrier fences should be at least 8 feet tall to deter moose. Unfortunately, this is not always practical for many gardens.
- Obstructive barricades: You can create simpler obstructive barricades using dryer sheets tied to trees and shrubs. The rustling sound and unfamiliar scent can startle moose and keep them away.
- Yellow caution tape or pinwheels: These visual deterrents can also make moose feel threatened and encourage them to move on.
- Chicken wire: Wrapping chicken wire around vulnerable plants can provide a physical barrier that moose cannot penetrate.
Commercial Moose Deterrents
There are also several commercial moose deterrents on the market. These products typically contain ingredients that are unpalatable to moose or have a strong odor that repels them. One popular commercial deterrent is Plantskydd, an odor-based repellent made with vegetable-based oils.
Deer Stopper Repellents
Many deer stopper repellents can also be effective against moose. However, it is important to note that these repellents may not be as potent or long-lasting against moose as they are against deer. Frequent application may be necessary to maintain their effectiveness.
Integrated Moose Deterrence
The most effective way to deter moose from your garden is to use a combination of methods. By rotating different deterrents and employing a variety of physical and chemical barriers, you can confuse and discourage moose from entering your garden.
Preventing Moose Entry
In addition to deterring moose that are already in your garden, it is also important to prevent them from entering in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Secure entrances: Keep gates and fences closed at all times.
- Remove attractants: Avoid planting moose-friendly plants near your garden.
- Clear brush: Keep the area around your garden clear of dense vegetation that could provide cover for moose.
Professional Help
If you are having difficulty keeping moose out of your garden, you may want to consider hiring a professional pest control company. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
Conclusion
Keeping moose out of your garden requires a combination of deterrents and preventative measures. By understanding moose behavior and employing the right strategies, you can protect your plants and enjoy a moose-free garden.
