How to Install an Electric Fence to Keep Out Deer

Nibbled leaves and trampled plants cause many gardeners to groan in frustration. Finding deer tracks in the soft soil of the garden is a tell-tale sign deer are browsing on the tender young plants, causing considerable damage. Deer can be very difficult to deter with repellents. Also, repellents are simply a temporary solution. For a long-term solution, a cheaper option is to install an electrified fence to deter the deer. An electric fence is not a physical barrier. Instead, the fence delivers a mild shock that conditions animals to stay away from it.

Fiberglass or metal fence post rods, 4 feet tall
Plastic insulators
Polytape or electric wire fencing
Fence charger
Hammer
Nails
Copper grounding rods
Voltage meter
Warning tape
Deer deterrent

Instructions

- 1
  Determine how many fence posts you will need by measuring the area around your garden. Calculate one post every 8 to 10 feet.
- 2
  Place one fence post rod at the corners of the garden. Using a hammer if necessary, drive the post into the ground about one foot. For a sturdier and more permanent fence, use wood corner posts for your fence. Set the remaining posts.
- 3
  Slide two insulators over each post. Place one insulator 6 inches off the ground for small animal deterrent and and the other 30 inches above ground for deer control. Tighten the screw ring on the insulators to hold them in place. If you are using wood posts, nail insulators at the correct heights.
- 4
  Starting at the end where your fence will connect to the fence charger, run a line of tape or fencing wire through each insulator at the bottom of the posts. Pull the tape or wire taut as you continue around the garden. Repeat with the top row of wire.
- 5
  Using hammer and nails, fasten the fence charger to a wooden post or the side of a building close to the fence. Connect wire from the fence to the charger. Install 2 ground rods to your fence charger, following the manufacturer's specifications.
- 6
  Turn on the charger. Test the charger with a voltage meter to make sure it is carrying the full charge specified by the manufacturer.
- 7
  Turn off the charger. Attach pieces of flagging tape or cloth at various places along the fence. Spray deer deterrent onto each piece of cloth.

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