Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist Practice Exam

Which method can landscape professionals use to deter deer from gardens?

1. Ignoring their presence

2. Using repellents, fencing, or deer-resistant plant selections

3. Planting only edible plants

4. Utilizing chemical deterrents exclusively

The correct answer is: Using repellents, fencing, or deer-resistant plant selections

Using repellents, fencing, or deer-resistant plant selections is an effective method for landscape professionals to deter deer from gardens. This approach takes into account that deer are often attracted to gardens due to the availability of food. By employing physical barriers such as fencing, gardens can be protected from deer access. Fences should be designed to be high enough and secure enough to prevent deer from jumping over or pushing through. Repellents can also be a useful strategy; these products often contain scents or tastes that deer find unappealing, thereby encouraging them to stay away from treated areas. Additionally, selecting plants that are less palatable to deer can further discourage them. Many native and drought-tolerant plants tend to be more resilient to deer feeding, making them an excellent choice for landscapes in deer-populated areas. In contrast, simply ignoring their presence does not address the issue and could lead to significant damage. Planting only edible plants will likely attract deer rather than deter them, while relying solely on chemical deterrents might not provide a comprehensive solution since these products often require frequent reapplication and may not be effective in all conditions. Therefore, a multifaceted approach that incorporates various deterrent strategies is the most sustainable and effective way to manage deer in landscaped environments.