As an experienced gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that deer and rabbits typically tend to avoid eating salvia plants. This is primarily due to the oils present in the leaves of most salvia varieties. These oils give the plants their distinct fragrance, which can act as a natural deterrent for these animals.
In my personal experience, I have observed that deer and rabbits are more likely to avoid plants that have a strong scent. Salvia, being a highly aromatic plant, tends to fall into this category. When you brush up against or rub the leaves of salvia, you can easily notice the pleasant fragrance that emanates from them. This is a result of the oils in the leaves, which not only contribute to the plant’s scent but also make it less palatable to deer and rabbits.
It is important to note that while salvia is generally considered deer and rabbit-resistant, there may be instances where these animals may still nibble on the plants. Factors such as the availability of alternative food sources, population density of deer and rabbits in your area, and the overall health and condition of the plants can contribute to their susceptibility to grazing.
To further enhance the deer and rabbit resistance of your salvia plants, you can consider implementing additional measures. These may include:
1. Planting companion plants: Some plants, when grown alongside salvia, can help deter deer and rabbits. Examples of such companion plants include lavender, marigold, and yarrow. These plants have strong scents that can mask the attractive aroma of salvia for these animals.
2. Fencing: Installing a physical barrier such as a fence around your garden or specific planting areas can effectively keep deer and rabbits at bay. Ensure that the fence is tall enough to prevent them from jumping over, and that the gaps between the fence posts are small enough to prevent them from squeezing through.
3. Repellents: There are various commercially available animal repellents that can be sprayed on and around your salvia plants. These repellents typically have a strong odor or taste that deters deer and rabbits from feeding on the plants. It is important to follow the instructions on the repellent packaging and reapply as needed.
4. Natural deterrents: Some gardeners have had success with using natural deterrents such as garlic or hot pepper sprays. These can be made at home by combining garlic or hot peppers with water and then spraying the mixture on the plants. However, it is important to test these deterrents on a small portion of the plant first to ensure they do not cause any damage.
While salvia is generally considered deer and rabbit-resistant due to its fragrant oils, it is important to remember that no plant is entirely immune to grazing. Implementing a combination of strategies, such as planting companion plants, using fencing, and applying repellents, can help further protect your salvia plants from these animals.
