As someone who has dealt with the frustration of deer munching on my beloved plants, I understand the desire to find annuals that are resistant to their browsing. Fortunately, there are several deer-resistant annuals that can be a beautiful addition to your garden, including some popular choices for cutting flowers.
1. Zinnias: These vibrant and colorful flowers are not a favorite of deer. With a wide range of colors and sizes available, zinnias can add a cheerful touch to any cutting garden.
2. Shirley poppies: These delicate, papery flowers are not typically on a deer’s menu. They come in various shades of pink, red, and white, and their ethereal beauty makes them a lovely choice for bouquets.
3. Larkspur: This tall and elegant flower is known for its spiky blooms in shades of blue, purple, and white. Lucky for us, deer tend to avoid larkspur, making it a great choice for a cutting garden.
4. Sunflowers: These iconic annuals not only bring a touch of sunshine to your garden but are also deer-resistant. With their tall stalks and large, cheerful blooms, sunflowers make a stunning addition to any bouquet.
5. Tall ageratum: With its fluffy, lavender-blue flowers, tall ageratum adds a soft and romantic touch to arrangements. Thankfully, deer tend to steer clear of this annual, allowing us to enjoy its beauty without worry.
6. Verbena bonariensis: This tall and airy plant features clusters of small purple flowers that butterflies adore. Luckily, deer are not as fond of verbena bonariensis, making it a reliable choice for a cutting garden.
Incorporating these deer-resistant annuals into your garden not only ensures a beautiful display of flowers but also provides you with a bountiful source of blooms for cutting. Remember to plant them in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and provide them with adequate water and care to maximize their growth and flower production.
While these annuals are generally considered deer-resistant, it’s important to keep in mind that deer can be unpredictable, and individual deer may have different preferences. Additionally, in times of extreme hunger or when other food sources are limited, deer may still nibble on these plants. It’s always a good idea to monitor your garden and take additional measures, such as fencing or using deer repellents, to further protect your plants from deer damage.
With these deer-resistant annuals, you can create a cutting garden that not only brings you joy but also keeps those pesky deer at bay. Happy gardening!
