Deer don’t stop feeding when the flowers fade — they just change their menu.
In fall and winter, deer turn their attention to shrubs and trees, causing serious damage to bark, buds, and evergreen foliage. Whether you’ve planted arborvitae as a privacy screen or have decorative shrubs in your landscape beds, deer can undo years of growth in just a few nights.
That’s why property owners across Columbus count on ohDEER’s deer repellent for trees and shrubs — an all-natural solution that keeps plants protected during every season, without harming wildlife or your yard.
As the weather cools and food becomes scarce, deer become far less picky. While they may avoid woody plants in spring and summer, they rely on bark, evergreen leaves, and dormant buds in colder months to survive. This seasonal browsing can lead to permanent damage, stress, or even death for young or vulnerable plants.
Even urban neighborhoods and suburban areas like Powell, Worthington, and Delaware see increased deer activity near treelines, hedges, and ornamental plantings in fall and winter.
Commonly Affected Trees and Shrubs in Central Ohio:
These plants are highly attractive to deer when other food sources are limited — but with proper protection, they don’t have to be vulnerable.
Our deer repellent for shrubs and trees uses a plant-safe formula designed to deter deer through scent and taste. With natural ingredients like garlic, peppermint oil, and egg solids, the treatment is completely non-toxic to pets, people, and pollinators — but highly unappealing to deer.
Here’s how it works:
1. We apply a fine mist spray directly to foliage, stems, or bark
2. Deer sample it once, dislike the taste, and move on
3. Over time, they learn to avoid your property entirely
This form of behavioral conditioning helps prevent damage before it begins — and keeps deer from forming long-term feeding habits in your yard.
The repellent is designed to withstand Ohio weather and can be reapplied regularly for year-round protection.
Tree and shrub protection is most critical during the fall and winter months when deer have fewer natural food sources and are more likely to forage in residential areas. That’s why we offer specialized programs focused on cold-season application and vulnerable plants.
For properties with year-round landscaping, this plan ensures full protection through all seasons — including early spring when deer feeding begins again.
Need help deciding? We offer free on-site evaluations to recommend the right protection schedule for your landscape.
1. Can deer actually kill a tree? Yes. Repeated bark stripping or bud grazing can stunt or even kill young or ornamental trees over time.
2. Do you spray trees in winter? Absolutely. Our winter applications are designed specifically for cold-weather use and will not freeze or harm dormant plants.
3. Is this safe for dogs or kids? Completely. Our formula is 100% natural and safe for pets and children once it’s dry — no synthetic chemicals involved.
4. Will it affect pollinators or birds? Not at all. Our treatments are pollinator-friendly and do not affect beneficial insects or wildlife.
5. How often do I need to spray shrubs or trees? Typically every 4–6 weeks depending on weather and plant type. We adjust the schedule to your property’s needs.
Your trees and shrubs deserve more than a chance — they deserve full protection from seasonal deer damage. With ohDEER’s deer repellent for trees and shrubs, you’ll enjoy peace of mind and a healthier, more beautiful yard — no matter the season.
We proudly serve the Columbus area, including nearby communities such as Dublin, Worthington, Powell, and Delaware.
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Let’s help your landscape grow — without deer interference.