Do I Need Deer Fence and Tree Protection on Martha’s Vineyard This Winter?

Preventive action for a winter with no surprises Winter on Martha’s Vineyard brings more deer activity, snow and cold coastal winds that can compromise the landscape. If you want to protect high-value plants, reduce replacement costs, and keep the garden pristine, this blog explains how Deer Fence, Tree Protection, Mulch Ring and other techniques we use work together to safeguard your property.

Why Winter Protection Matters

When natural food declines, deer expand their search into residential gardens. The variety of what they prefer is broad and includes ornamental shrubs, valuable native plants, newly planted perennials, young saplings, and edible beds. At the same time, wet, heavy snow can bend and break branches, and coastal wind increases plant stress. Protecting now helps prevent costly loss and sets the garden up to enter spring strong.

Scenario update: Recent outlooks from regional forecasters have highlighted windows of cold, wind, and the possibility of flurries in November, signaling episodes earlier and more frequent than is usually the pattern for this region. Local coverage has also noted an expectation of more snow in this New England winter cycle.

 

Questions We Hear Often

Does a Deer Fence really stop deer from damaging plants? Yes. The fence creates a discreet and effective physical barrier that reduces access to your highest-value beds and the paths deer tend to use.

How tall should the fence be? The height is evaluated case by case, based on the plant material, the location on site, and the level of deer traffic. Our team assesses on property and recommends the right specification for your garden.

What does Tree Protection include? A set of simple, effective measures that will be evaluated case by case. In general, we use burlap on sensitive shrubs, ventilated trunk guards, individual protective enclosures for young trees and, when needed, light tie-backs to help plants carry snow. Is the Mulch Ring really important? Yes. A moderate layer around the trunk, not touching the bark, helps stabilize soil moisture and temperature, protecting roots through winter.

When should I do all of this? Preventively. With the latest updates pointing to cold, wind and flurries already in November, it is wise to get ahead of protection to avoid early-season surprises. For newly planted gardens, the sooner the better.

 

What We Do for You?

• Deer Fence that is discreet and prioritized for your most valuable beds and areas

• Tree Protection with burlap, trunk guards and individual tree enclosures when indicated

• Mulch Ring with the right depth, without touching the trunk

• Simple guidance on tie-backs and caring for snow accumulation on sensitive shrubs

 

First Visit, Simple and Straightforward Review

On the first visit, we evaluate which plants to protect first, where deer enter, where snow tends to weigh most, and how to keep paths and access practical through winter. Based on this review, we indicate the best course of action, always focused on saving replacements and preserving the beauty of the garden. Benefits for Your Budget and for Your Garden

• Fewer losses and fewer spring replacements

• A healthy, beautiful garden throughout winter

• Better return on your landscape investment

Ready to Protect Your Garden

Talk to Millers Pro Landscape and keep your garden pristine in the coming months, saving on replacements and protecting your investment.