Deer are known for their voracious appetites, often causing significant damage to gardens and landscapes. However, not all plants are equally appealing to these animals. Some plants have characteristics that make them unpalatable or even toxic to deer. If you’re looking to create a garden that deer will avoid, it’s essential to know which plants they are least likely to eat. In this article, we’ll explore the types of plants that deer absolutely will not eat, based on their taste, smell, texture, and toxicity.
Why Do Deer Avoid Certain Plants?
Understanding why deer avoid certain plants can help you make informed decisions about what to grow in your garden. Deer are selective feeders, and their preferences are influenced by several factors:
- Taste: Plants with bitter or unpleasant tastes are less likely to be eaten by deer.
- Smell: Strong, pungent odors can deter deer from feeding on certain plants.
- Texture: Plants with tough, thorny, or fuzzy leaves are less appealing to deer.
- Toxicity: Some plants contain compounds that are toxic or irritating to deer, making them avoid these plants altogether.
By focusing on plants that possess these characteristics, you can create a garden that is less attractive to deer.
Deer-Resistant Annuals
Annual plants complete their life cycle in one growing season and can add vibrant color to your garden. Here are some annuals that deer are unlikely to eat:
1. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are known for their bright orange and yellow flowers and strong scent. The pungent odor of marigolds is unappealing to deer, making them a great choice for a deer-resistant garden.
2. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Snapdragons produce colorful, tubular flowers that are slightly bitter in taste. This bitterness makes them less attractive to deer. Snapdragons are also easy to grow and can thrive in various soil conditions.
3. Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum)
Ageratum, also known as floss flower, has fluffy blue, pink, or white flowers. Its strong scent is a natural deterrent for deer. Ageratum is low-maintenance and can add a soft texture to your garden.
Deer-Resistant Perennials
Perennial plants live for more than two years and can provide long-term beauty to your garden. Here are some perennials that deer are unlikely to eat:
1. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is famous for its fragrant purple flowers and strong scent. While humans find the aroma pleasant, deer find it repulsive. Lavender is also drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil.
2. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian sage has silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers. Its strong scent and tough texture make it unappealing to deer. Russian sage is also drought-tolerant and can add height to your garden.
3. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers and has a strong, bitter taste. Deer tend to avoid yarrow due to its unpalatable flavor. Yarrow is also easy to grow and can thrive in poor soil conditions.
Deer-Resistant Shrubs
Shrubs provide structure and year-round interest to your landscape. Here are some shrubs that deer are unlikely to eat:
1. Boxwood (Buxus spp.)
Boxwood is a popular shrub for hedges and topiaries. Its dense foliage and strong scent make it unappealing to deer. Boxwood is also easy to shape and maintain.
2. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja spp.)
Butterfly bush produces long, fragrant flower spikes that attract pollinators but deter deer. Its strong scent is a natural repellent for deer. Butterfly bush is also drought-tolerant and easy to grow.
3. Juniper (Juniperus spp.)
Juniper is an evergreen shrub with needle-like foliage. Its strong scent and tough texture make it unappealing to deer. Juniper is also low-maintenance and can thrive in various soil conditions.
Deer-Resistant Herbs
Herbs are not only useful in the kitchen but can also help keep deer away from your garden. Here are some herbs that deer are unlikely to eat:
1. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is a fragrant herb with needle-like leaves. Its strong scent is pleasant to humans but repels deer. Rosemary is also drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil.
2. Thyme (Thymus spp.)
Thyme is a low-growing herb with small, aromatic leaves. Its strong scent makes it unappealing to deer. Thyme is also easy to grow and can be used as a ground cover.
3. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano is a hardy herb with a strong, pungent scent. Deer tend to avoid it because of its strong aroma. Oregano is also easy to grow and can spread quickly, making it a great choice for filling in gaps in your garden.
Deer-Resistant Bulbs
Bulbs can add color to your garden in the spring and fall. Here are some bulbs that deer are unlikely to eat:
1. Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)
Daffodils contain toxic compounds that make them unappealing to deer. They are also easy to grow and come in a variety of colors and sizes.
2. Alliums (Allium spp.)
Alliums, also known as ornamental onions, produce large, spherical flower heads. Their strong scent deters deer. Alliums are also drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions.
3. Fritillaria (Fritillaria spp.)
Fritillaria is a unique bulb with bell-shaped flowers. Its strong scent makes it unappealing to deer. Fritillaria is also easy to grow and can add a touch of elegance to your garden.
Deer-Resistant Ground Covers
Ground covers can prevent weeds and erosion while adding beauty to your garden. Here are some ground covers that deer are unlikely to eat:
1. Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
Lamb’s ear has soft, fuzzy leaves that are unappealing to deer. It is also drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions.
2. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
Creeping thyme forms a dense mat of foliage with a strong scent that deer dislike. It is also easy to grow and can be used as a ground cover or between stepping stones.
3. Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)
Sweet woodruff is a shade-loving ground cover with fragrant, star-shaped leaves. Its strong scent makes it unappealing to deer. Sweet woodruff is also easy to grow and can thrive in moist, shady areas.
Tips for Creating a Deer-Resistant Garden
While planting deer-resistant plants is a great start, there are additional steps you can take to further protect your garden from deer:
Use Repellents: Commercial deer repellents can be sprayed on plants to deter deer. These repellents often contain strong-smelling ingredients like garlic or rotten eggs.
Install Fencing: A physical barrier, such as a fence, is one of the most effective ways to keep deer out of your garden. Make sure the fence is at least 8 feet tall, as deer are excellent jumpers.
Plant in Layers: Deer are less likely to enter a garden that has a dense, layered planting scheme. By planting a mix of tall shrubs, medium-sized perennials, and low-growing ground covers, you can create a barrier that deer find difficult to navigate.
Rotate Plants: Deer can become accustomed to certain plants over time. By rotating your plantings and introducing new deer-resistant plants each year, you can keep deer guessing and reduce the likelihood of them feeding on your garden.
Use Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Motion-activated sprinklers can startle deer and discourage them from entering your garden. These devices are especially effective at night when deer are most active.
Conclusion
Creating a garden that deer will absolutely not eat is possible by choosing the right plants. Plants like marigolds, lavender, boxwood, and daffodils are just a few examples of deer-resistant options that can help protect your garden from these hungry visitors. Additionally, using repellents, installing fencing, and planting in layers can further enhance your garden’s resistance to deer. With a little planning and effort, you can enjoy a thriving garden that deer will steer clear of.
Remember, no plant is completely deer-proof, especially in areas with high deer populations or during times of food scarcity. However, by incorporating a variety of deer-resistant plants and employing additional deterrent strategies, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of deer damage in your garden. Happy gardening!
