Deer can be quite a nuisance in gardens and landscapes, as they often feed on various plants and foliage. However, when it comes to Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra), there is some good news for gardeners who are concerned about deer damage.
In general, deer tend to avoid Japanese forest grass and it is considered to be deer resistant. This can be attributed to a few factors. Firstly, the texture and taste of the grass may not be appealing to deer. Japanese forest grass has a fine, delicate foliage that may not be as palatable to deer as other plants with coarser leaves. Additionally, the grass does not have a strong scent or aroma that would attract deer.
Personal experience has shown that Japanese forest grass is often left untouched by deer in areas where deer populations are common. In my own garden, which is frequented by deer, I have observed that the grass remains untouched while other plants nearby are often nibbled on or damaged.
However, it is important to note that while Japanese forest grass is generally deer resistant, there is no plant that is completely deer-proof. In times of scarce food or when deer populations are particularly high, they may resort to eating plants that they would normally avoid. Therefore, it is always wise to take precautions and use additional deer deterrent methods if deer are a persistent problem in your area.
Some effective methods to deter deer include using deer fencing or netting to physically block their access to the plants, applying deer repellents or deterrent sprays, and planting deer-resistant plants in your garden. It is also helpful to create a diverse and layered landscape, as deer are less likely to browse in areas with a variety of plants and heights.
Japanese forest grass is generally considered to be deer resistant. Its fine texture and lack of strong scent make it less appealing to deer compared to other plants. However, it is important to remember that no plant is completely immune to deer feeding, and taking additional precautions may be necessary in areas with high deer populations.
