Not Tonight Deer

Deer looking towards camera while eating leaves

Had enough of the deer eating your landscape? Yes, we know they are cute and all but when they destroy thousands of dollars in plants overnight, they are a pest. 

The bottom line is that when the leaves fall off the trees, there is very little food left in the forest for our big-eared friends. All that is left are some evergreens, and your garden.

Deer are creatures of habit (aren’t we all). They like to follow the same paths and bed down in the same places. When food gets scarce in the woods, they like to find their food around those safe and desirable places. The best way to “train” them not to eat your plants is to make them think the plants are not the food they want.

Now is the optimal time to begin training them not to eat your landscape.

For this, we have been using a product called Scram (catchy, isn’t it?). Scram is an organic product (we like organic) comprised of a mixture of herbs and spices. Through their uncanny sense of smell, Scram convinces the deer that harm is nearby. Interestingly enough, it does not smell bad to humans. Scram does not harm children or pets and because it is organic, does not harm the environment.

Through our Deer DeFence program we apply Scram every thirty days or so around the plants that are at risk. This schedule has proven effective at keeping deer away from desirable plants and if started this fall, will protect your plants year round.

If you would like information on how we can help you protect your landscape investment, give us a call at 301-515-1900 or email at info@allentucklandscaping.com.

 

What’s the Best Surface to Have Around a Pool?

Designing your dream pool is exciting—but don’t forget the space around it. The surface you choose matters more than you think. It affects how safe your pool area is. How comfortable it feels. And how much maintenance you’ll need to do. So, what’s the best surface to have around a pool? Whether you’re building a new pool or refreshing an old one, this guide will walk you through the best options available—helping you find the right fit for your home,

READ MORE »

The Gardening 3 Year Rule: What It Is and Why It Matters

You’ve planted. You’ve watered. You’ve dreamed of a lush, vibrant garden that turns heads and brings you joy every time you step outside.But after a year, things look… underwhelming. Sparse blooms. Thin growth. Disappointment creeping in. Relax. You’re not failing. Your garden is just following the Gardening 3 Year Rule. This simple but powerful idea explains how most plants behave over time—and why patience is one of your most valuable gardening tools. If you’re planning a new landscape or refreshing

READ MORE »

Top May Garden Tips: Helping Your Landscape Thrive in Late Spring

May is a magical time in the garden. Flowers are blooming, vegetables are growing, and everything seems to burst with life. As the weather warms up, your landscape needs regular care to stay healthy and vibrant. These Top May Garden Tips will help you keep your garden looking its best as spring transitions into summer. 1. Stay on Top of Weeding and Mulching With warm temperatures and sunny days, weeds can take over quickly. Weed Weekly: Regularly pull weeds before

READ MORE »

8 Best Low Maintenance Landscape Plants

Landscaping doesn’t have to mean constant pruning, watering, and worrying. In fact, choosing the best low maintenance landscape plants can save you time, money, and weekend headaches—while still making your yard look amazing. Whether you’re planting a new bed, refreshing an old one, or just want to spend less time doing yard work, these reliable plants deliver big beauty with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the top picks that thrive with less fuss. What Makes a Plant “Low Maintenance”? Low

READ MORE »

How Do I Fix Bad Drainage in My Yard?

Water should be a blessing for your yard — not a headache. But when every rainstorm leaves behind puddles, soggy spots, or even erosion, it’s a clear sign there’s a bigger issue. Bad drainage in my yard is something no homeowner wants to deal with, but the good news is, it’s fixable. With the right strategies, you can protect your landscape, your home, and your peace of mind. Let’s dive into exactly how to spot the problem, understand what’s causing

READ MORE »

Should You Aerate Your Lawn in the Spring?

Your lawn took a beating this winter. Soggy soil, heavy snow, kids and pets running across frozen turf — it all adds up to compacted soil and tired grass roots. As the weather warms in Montgomery County, many homeowners start asking: Should you aerate your lawn in the spring? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no — it depends on your grass type, the condition of your lawn, and what you’re hoping to achieve. Aeration is one of the

READ MORE »