DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to a June 8 question about deterring deer from eating plants in people’s yards, I just read yesterday so haven’t tried it, that strong-smelling dryer sheets can be used to repel deer. You cut them in ribbon strips and attach them to the trunks of plants or branches of shrubs, etc. Supposedly, the smell repels them and other creatures. It sounds like a good weapon to me. Do you think this is OK for plants you eat if you cut off where the ribbon was or just place it on the trunk? I love how things get around Sun Spots Land — and you are the best guide for us all out there. — Loyal fan, Lewiston
ANSWER: According to healthline.com, nearly all chemicals in dryer sheets are generally deemed safe by the Food and Drug Administration. However, more research is needed on the potential health effects of the fragrances used in dryer sheets. Also, according to mentalfloss.com, dryer sheets can be harmful to pets if they come in contact with or ingest the sheets.
Thank you for being a loyal fan!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: There’s a product called Liquid Fence that really keeps deer away. You spray it on plants. — No name, no town
ANSWER: Thank you! I hope this helps keep those pesky deer away.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: My husband likes the coleslaw at Grant’s Bakery in Lewiston better than my homemade one, and my feelings are hurt! But as they say, if you can’t beat them, join them (and it is pretty tasty). Can Sun Spots work its magic to get the Grant’s Bakery coleslaw recipe? — Margaret Cloutier, Auburn
ANSWER: Of course, such recipes are proprietary. If a business gave away its secrets to deliciousness, it would lose customers. You could ask your husband what he likes about Grant’s coleslaw: Is it sweet, fruity, acidic, finely chopped, coarse? That might get you closer to the desired taste.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I would like to thank the lady who paid ahead for me at the Bethel Car Wash. I had recently been discharged from the hospital and am using a cane. She filled the car vacuum machine for me and left before I could thank her. What a nice surprise and kind act she did. — No name, Bethel
ANSWER: What a wonderful person! It’s always heartwarming to hear of such thoughtful deeds.
This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.
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