Deer damage to young trees - Ask Extension
Is there anything I can do for the damage that deer have caused our young trees by rubbing their antlers on the trunk and branches? We are putting fe...
Knowledgebase
Deer damage to young trees #493711
Asked November 07, 2018, 9:42 AM EST
Is there anything I can do for the damage that deer have caused our young trees by rubbing their antlers on the trunk and branches? We are putting fence around each of them to prevent any further damage, but I’m wanting to know if there is anything I can do for the damage that is already done to protect them from insects or any other hazards.
Douglas County Colorado
Expert Response
Thank you for the question. Fencing will be your best option to prevent any further damage. As for protecting them with the current damage since they appear to be fairly young trees, you can wrap the trunks to that first branch in the winter to help protect from any kind of sun scald, etc. Be sure to remove in the spring so insects do not try and move in to the damage area. Other than that it's best to leave the trunks as is, the tree will do what it needs to to block off the area as best it can.
