Deer do eat Euonymus plants. Euonymus, also known as spindle, burning-bush, strawberry-bush, wahoo, or wintercreeper, is highly attractive to deer and often considered deer candy. These plants are known for their lush foliage and colorful berries, which make them irresistible to deer.
I have personally experienced the frustrating sight of deer devouring my Euonymus plants in my own garden. Despite my efforts to protect them, the deer seemed to find a way to reach the plants and feast on their leaves and berries. It was disheartening to see the once vibrant and healthy Euonymus plants reduced to mere stubs.
Deer are particularly fond of the tender new growth and young shoots of Euonymus plants. They will eagerly browse on the leaves, often leaving behind ragged edges and bare stems. In addition, they are particularly attracted to the colorful berries that Euonymus produces. These berries provide a rich source of nutrition for deer, especially during the winter months when other food sources may be scarce.
It is worth noting that not all Euonymus species are equally appealing to deer. Some varieties, such as Euonymus alatus (burning bush), seem to be more palatable to deer than others. However, in general, Euonymus plants are considered a favorite snack for deer.
If you live in an area with a high deer population, it can be challenging to maintain Euonymus plants without some form of protection. Fencing or netting can be effective in keeping deer away from your plants. However, it is important to ensure that the fencing is tall enough and properly secured to prevent the deer from jumping over or pushing through.
Another option is to use deer repellents, such as sprays or granules, which can help deter deer from feeding on your Euonymus plants. These repellents typically contain strong odors or tastes that are unpleasant to deer.
In my experience, a combination of protective measures is often necessary to effectively keep deer away from Euonymus plants. It may require some trial and error to find the best approach for your specific situation, as deer can be persistent and adaptable creatures.
Deer have a strong appetite for Euonymus plants, considering them to be like candy. These plants are highly attractive to deer due to their lush foliage and colorful berries. If you have Euonymus plants in an area with a high deer population, it may be necessary to employ various methods of protection to prevent them from being devoured by these hungry animals.
