When it comes to vegetable plants, deer can be quite selective in what they choose to eat. Fortunately, there are several types of plants that deer tend to avoid, either due to their toxicity, texture, or strong odor.
1. Toxic plants: Certain plants, such as rhubarb, contain toxins that make them unpalatable to deer. These plants have natural defense mechanisms that deter animals from eating them. It’s important to note that while toxic plants may not be eaten by deer, they should still be handled with caution by humans.
2. Root vegetables: Deer typically avoid digging for food, so root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and beets are often safe from their browsing. These plants require the deer to exert more effort in order to access the edible parts, which may discourage them from feeding on them.
3. Prickly vegetables: Vegetables with prickly leaves, such as cucumbers and squashes, are generally not preferred by deer. The texture of the leaves can be unpleasant for them to consume, leading them to seek out more palatable options. However, it’s worth noting that young seedlings of these plants may still be vulnerable to deer browsing.
4. Vegetables with strong odors: Deer rely heavily on their sense of smell, and certain vegetables with strong odors can be off-putting to them. Plants like onions, garlic, and fennel have pungent aromas that deer find unappealing, making them less likely to be eaten. Incorporating these types of plants into your garden can help deter deer from browsing on other vegetable crops.
5. Herbs and aromatic plants: In addition to onions, garlic, and fennel, there are other herbs and aromatic plants that deer tend to avoid. Plants like rosemary, thyme, and sage have strong scents that can mask the attractive smells of nearby vegetables, making them less enticing to deer.
It’s important to keep in mind that deer browsing habits can vary depending on factors such as food availability and population density. While the plants mentioned above are generally avoided by deer, it’s not a guarantee that they will never be eaten. Additionally, it’s worth noting that hungry or desperate deer may be more willing to consume plants they would typically avoid.
To further protect your vegetable garden from deer, there are additional strategies you can employ. These include:
– Fencing: Installing a sturdy fence around your garden can be an effective way to keep deer out. The fence should be at least 8 feet tall and buried a few inches into the ground to prevent the deer from easily jumping over or burrowing under it.
– Repellents: There are commercially available deer repellents that can be sprayed on plants to deter browsing. These repellents typically contain strong-smelling substances that deer find offensive. However, it’s important to reapply the repellent after rainfall or as directed on the product label.
– Companion planting: Some plants, when grown alongside vegetables, can help deter deer. For example, marigolds and lavender have scents that repel deer, so planting them around your vegetable garden can act as a natural deterrent.
– Scare tactics: Using scare devices such as motion-activated sprinklers, noise-making devices, or even hanging reflective objects can startle and discourage deer from approaching your garden.
By incorporating a combination of these strategies and selecting deer-resistant plants, you can increase the chances of a successful vegetable garden while minimizing potential damage caused by deer. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and adaptable, as deer behavior can change over time.
