Creature Feature – Deterring Deer

While most gardeners are happy to share the fruits of their labors with foraging birds and valuable pollinating insects, sacrificing beautiful blooms and precious plants to white-tailed deer is where they draw the line. Many times I have lost a season’s worth of buds, flowers, and foliage to browsing deer. This can be discouraging as well as costly. The good news is that there is a long list of attractive annuals, perennials, shrubs and other types of plants that are resistant to our nibbling neighbors. As you consider additions to your garden or yard this spring, check out some of these deer-resistant plants, just a sampling of the varieties available today.

Allium, Astilbe, Beebalm, Boxwood, Coneflower, Floss Flower, Fringed Bleeding Heart, Butterfly Bush, Catmint, Dusty Miller, Japanese Painted Fern, Japanese Sedge, Juniper, Lady’s Mantle, Lamium, Lavender, Lily of the Valley, Marigolds, Monkshood, Pachysandra, Peony, Russian Sage, Snapdragon, Spirea, and Verbena.

Research your selections to better ensure they are hardy for your zone and that they will receive the recommended amount of sunlight as well as proper soil conditions best suited for optimal growth. Meanwhile, other suggestions to deter deer include hanging windchimes or placing wind spinners around your garden; using decorative hanging containers or pots that can be placed out of reach on decks or balconies; and installing a barrier such as tall fencing or hot wire. If you’re considering repairing a fence, hire State Fencing for professional and reliable service. Learn more at gardendesign.com.

Article & Photo by Margie Manthey