Deer and other wildlife can be a major nuisance in gardens and landscapes, often causing damage to plants by browsing on leaves and stems. However, one of the great virtues of rock cress (Arabis alpina subsp.) is that it is deer resistant. This means that deer are less likely to eat or damage this particular plant.
Deer resistance can vary among different plant species and even among different varieties within the same species. However, rock cress is generally considered to be a plant that deer tend to avoid. This is due to its strong scent and bitter taste, which are unappealing to deer.
In my personal experience, I have planted rock cress in gardens that are frequented by deer, and I have not observed any damage to the plants. They have grown and thrived without being browsed upon by deer.
It is important to note that while rock cress is deer resistant, it is not deer-proof. In times of extreme hunger or when other food sources are scarce, deer may still nibble on rock cress or any other plant for that matter. However, it is less likely to be targeted by deer compared to many other plants.
If you are concerned about deer damage in your garden, it is always a good idea to incorporate a variety of deer-resistant plants, such as rock cress, into your landscape. This can help deter deer from your garden and reduce the risk of damage to your plants.
In addition to its deer resistance, rock cress also offers other benefits in the garden. It is a drought-tolerant plant, meaning it can withstand periods of dry weather without requiring frequent watering. This makes it a great choice for gardens in regions with limited water resources or for those who prefer low-maintenance landscaping.
Rock cress is also an early-flowering groundcover, typically blooming in early spring. Its delicate, small flowers add a splash of color to the garden when many other plants are still dormant. This makes it a wonderful option for rock gardens, as edging along pathways, or as a companion to early spring bulbs.
While no plant can guarantee complete protection against deer, rock cress is generally considered to be a deer-resistant plant. It has a strong scent and bitter taste that deters deer from browsing on its leaves and stems. Incorporating deer-resistant plants like rock cress into your garden can help minimize deer damage and enhance the overall beauty of your landscape.
