How to Deter Deer With Irish Spring Soap

How to Deter Deer With Irish Spring Soap
Written By
Jasey Kelly
Jasey Kelly
Published: Oct 27, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Irish Spring is one of these homemade deterrents, and some people experience great success using this strong-smelling soap to deter their unwelcome guests.

Things You Will Need

  • Irish Spring Soap bars
  • Drill
  • Twine, thin rope or other string-like material
  • Sharp knife

Hanging

  1. Drill a small hole near the top of each bar of soap. The hole should be large enough for your rope or string to pass through, and far enough from the top that the rope will stay in throughout rain. Rain will cause a slow reduction in the bar's size.

  2. String your rope through the drilled hole and tie it in a knot.

  3. Hang the other end of the string from a branch or post near the deer's head and feeding height.

Chunks

  1. Cut the bars of soap into quarters or similar size pieces using a sharp knife.

  2. Drill holes in the top and follow instructions for hanging, or drill holes in bottom for stakes.

  3. Place the chunks on bamboo or other stakes around your plants. This method works for lower garden plants, while the hanging method works better for trees and taller plants.

  4. Refresh your soap often. The stronger the scent of the soap, the better deterrent it is. Cycle the soap and other repellents often.

The Drip Cap

  • Deer can quickly change from being welcome, unexpected backyard guests to voracious pests.
  • Irish Spring is one of these homemade deterrents, and some people experience great success using this strong-smelling soap to deter their unwelcome guests.
  • The hole should be large enough for your rope or string to pass through, and far enough from the top that the rope will stay in throughout rain.
  • Place the chunks on bamboo or other stakes around your plants.

Photo Credits

Adam Jones/Photodisc/Getty Images

Adam Jones/Photodisc/Getty Images

Jasey Kelly

With a professional background in gardening, landscapes, pests and natural ecosystems, Jasey Kelly has been sharing her knowledge through writing since 2009 and has served as an expert writer in these fields. Kelly's background also…

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