As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have encountered many situations where deer have caused damage to plants. When it comes to the bird’s nest spruce (Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’), also known as the bird’s nest spruce, I can confidently say that deer generally do not eat this particular shrub.
The bird’s nest spruce is a slow-growing evergreen shrub with needle-like foliage. Its fine, compact growth habit gives it a unique appearance, resembling a bird’s nest. This shrub is often used as an accent, specimen, or foundation plant in gardens. It can also be suitable for rock gardens due to its low spreading nature.
One of the reasons why deer typically do not eat bird’s nest spruce is its foliage. The needles of this shrub are quite sharp and prickly, which makes it unappetizing for deer to munch on. Deer generally prefer softer foliage, such as that found on many herbaceous plants or young tree saplings.
Another factor that may contribute to the deer resistance of bird’s nest spruce is its strong scent. The spruce family of plants, including the bird’s nest spruce, often have a distinct resinous aroma. This scent can act as a deterrent for deer, as they rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate food sources.
However, it is important to note that while deer may not typically eat bird’s nest spruce, they can still cause damage to the shrub. Deer may rub their antlers against the branches, especially during the rutting season, which can break or damage the foliage. Additionally, if deer are hungry and food sources are scarce, they may resort to eating plants that they would typically avoid.
To protect your bird’s nest spruce from deer damage, there are a few measures you can take. One option is to use deer repellents, either in the form of sprays or granules, which can help deter deer from approaching your plants. Another option is to install physical barriers, such as deer fencing or netting, to prevent deer from accessing your garden altogether.
In my personal experience, I have planted bird’s nest spruce in areas where deer are known to roam, and I have not observed any significant damage caused by deer. However, it is always important to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect your plants from potential deer browsing.
Deer generally do not eat bird’s nest spruce due to its sharp, prickly foliage and strong scent. However, it is still possible for deer to cause damage to the shrub, especially during the rutting season or when food sources are scarce. Taking preventive measures such as using deer repellents or installing physical barriers can help protect your bird’s nest spruce from deer damage.
