Beginners Gardening

I have a garden bench that I have had for 2 or 3 seasons. I believe that I used some sort of tongue oil on it initially. What type of weather protectant is best for this?? (I am cleaning and sanding it…)
Can I use something that is used to protect wooden decks?

Polls and surveys, is exactly that.

SO, If I was to ask a question about gardening, but say at the start – How many people………. it’s still in the right section? Its polling.

But seriously, there are so many diff questions asked in P and S, how can people say that you post it in the wrong section if it’s in p and s.

HOW MANY PEOPLE agree….
(survey)

I started a medium size garden. I do not have the money right now to put a fence up around it. We have deer, rabbits and coons. What are some other methods that work for keeping them OUT of it? I don’t want to try the human hair thing. I’ve heard it doesn’t work. No urine ideas either.
I’ve heard of a bar of soap on a stick. Or sticks with white sheets placed every 2-3 feet or so.
What do you think? What works?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated?!!!
Thank you!