Repellants offer an effective method of preventing rodent damage to plants of all different sizes.
Repellants also reduce plant damage by modifying the feeding behavior of deer, rabbits, moles and voles and are most effective when applied before feeding damage occurs.
Three types of repellents have been proven to be effective in reducing rodent feeding damage. These repellents are contact repellents and odor (or area) repellents and a new class of repellents that work by both odor and taste.
Contact repellents are applied directly to plant materials and repel by foul taste. This class of repellent generally works best on dormant trees and shrubs and would require frequent reapplication to protect new growth. Contact repellents should never be used on food crops.
