There’s no arguing that deer are beautiful, graceful, amazing creatures. But the sight of that innocent looking animal nibbling on you favorite shrub is enough to make you want to join the NRA. Even the most devout animal lover can be enraged with the loss of hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars in damage that deer can cause.

The problem with a hungry deer is that it will eat just about anything. Deer from different regions have different palates, and the one that finds its way to your backyard might be the only one in your neighborhood that likes what you have to offer. Fortunately, there are solutions to this common problem. For example, plants, shrubs, and gardens can be protected with items that deter the animals. There are a lot of homemade concoctions that can be somewhat effective. The goal is to use as much organic material as you possibly can. Deer are creatures of habit, and sometimes you have to mix it up a bit to make sure they stay away for good. You must also consider that rain can wash away some of your repellents and force you to start all over again.

If a herd seems to be coming through your property nightly, consider taking steps to break their pattern. Many techniques and deterrents will only be effective for a few days, depending on how quickly your particular deer adjust to them. Below is a list of methods that you might want to try. Each has worked well in some cases and not so well in others. You’ll have to experiment yourself to see what works best for your particular situation.

This might be the most effective technique. But who wants to install an eight-foot-tall fence around a garden? Believe it or not, you must also make sure the deer cannot crawl under the fence.

Rotten eggs, soapy water, hot-pepper spray and various types of commercial sprays work with mixed results. They also lose their potency after a rain. Do an Internet search and you’ll find hundreds of repellant recipes.

Some people who live on larger properties try to divert the deer to a different part of their property away from shrubs, plants, and gardens. They place five-gallon buckets of corn and apples on the ground and sometimes even a salt lick on a remote part in order to divert the deer even further.

Homeowners have had a lot of success with using human or animal hair around plants and shrubs. It should keep the deer away, and as the hair decomposes it will enrich the soil.

Many people swear by this product, which you can purchase from your local garden center. We’ve also heard of combining hair and blood meal for better results.

Deer are afraid of dogs, and as long as you don’t have a docile dog, this should work well. You have to be careful, though; some dogs will chase a deer and not stop until they catch it. If a deer is cornered, it will fight and could possibly kick and injure your family pet. Try putting your dog on a leash when you expect the deer to make their nightly visit. Just be sure to keep your pet’s safety in mind at all times.

Many have tried human urine with no success; however, coyote urine is something different. I guess deer are deathly afraid of something they know could kill them.

Ivory or Irish Spring soap grated around a garden has been known to help keep deer away. Some people also suggest putting a bar of Ivory soap on a string and hanging it from a tree or post.

The bottom line is this: Deer are more likely to visit your yard on a regular basis if they like what you have to offer. In many cases, you are stuck with what shrubs and plants you currently have on your property; however, you could consider removing those plants rather than planning for deterrents.

If you decide to change your plants, just make sure you check with your local home and garden center for advice on which ones deer usually do not like to eat. You can also search the Internet for the same information. Remember, deer are like humans, we all have our favorite foods.