The best approach to deer management is a combination of strategies which starts with a list of deer resistant plants.Deer have specific preferences when it comes to vegetation, and by selecting plants that are known to be unpalatable to deer, you can effectively deter them from feasting on your valuable plants.
Landscaping, and especially deeroscaping, using a deer resistant plant strategy is based on a knowledge of deer feeding habits can reduce or eliminate costly browsing damage. A list of deer resistant plants is invaluable. Also, use of deer repellents or fencing can also be greatly reduced by choosing aesthetically pleasing deer-resistant alternative plants. If you must plant susceptible plants, only plant them close to the house, or in an already fenced area such as a backyard.
One Deer's Trash Is Another Deer's Treasure
As stated above, the plants deer prefer to eat can vary from region to region and can change seasonally and is dependent on many variables.
By choosing resistant plant species, you create a landscape that is less attractive to deer, minimizing the risk of browsing damage, particularly in areas with high humidity. These plants possess characteristics such as strong aromas, unappetizing tastes, or thorny textures that deter deer from feeding on them.
Incorporating resistant plant species offers a proactive and sustainable solution to mitigate deer damage in landscapes, gardens, and orchards. By selecting varieties known for their natural repellent properties, you can create an environment that is less appealing to deer, allowing your plants to thrive in high humidity conditions with reduced risk of browsing damage.
What Makes Them Deer Resistant
Plants can be listed as deer resistant for several reasons. The variables include seasonal factors, geographic area, availability of alternative food, taste of the plants, and the deer's nutritional needs at the time. One plant species may be rarely damaged in one region of the country, but highly preferred in another region. Holly, white pine, and deciduous magnolias are a few plants that have very different deer preferences from region to region. Many deer-resistant plants are poisonous at some time of their growth cycle. Many are aromatic, have thorns, or have coarse foliage.
If an adequate supply of natural native plants are available to eat, deer are less likely to browse ornamental plantings. When the natural food supply is low, few ornamental plants will be resistant. Generally, deer browsing is worst in the winter when green grass and green plants aren't found. Also deer browse heavily in the spring on new succulent growth. Adding a deer resistant plant strategy to your repellents and other controls gives you a much better chance of success.