Deer can be quite a nuisance in gardens, as they have a tendency to munch on plants and flowers. When it comes to Thunbergia, also known as black-eyed Susan vine, the deer-resistance can vary. While some sources suggest that Thunbergia is deer-resistant, it is important to note that this does not guarantee that deer will not eat it. Deer have individual preferences and tastes, so what may be unappealing to one deer may be a tasty snack for another.
In my personal experience as a gardener, I have found that Thunbergia is generally not at the top of the deer’s menu. However, I have encountered situations where deer have nibbled on Thunbergia plants, especially during periods of food scarcity or when there are limited food options available. It is worth mentioning that deer tend to avoid plants with strong fragrances or those that have prickly or fuzzy foliage. Thunbergia, with its soft leaves and delicate flowers, may not have these deterrents.
To protect your Thunbergia from deer damage, there are a few strategies you can employ. One effective method is to create a physical barrier around the plants using fencing or netting. This can prevent deer from reaching the plants and deter them from attempting to eat them. Another option is to use deer repellents, which are products that emit odors or tastes that deer find unpleasant. These can be sprayed directly onto the Thunbergia plants or applied to surrounding areas to create a deterrent.
If you are unsure about the deer population in your area or have had previous issues with deer damaging your plants, it might be wise to consider planting Thunbergia in containers or hanging baskets. This way, you can easily move them indoors or to a more protected area during periods when deer activity is high.
While Thunbergia may have some level of deer resistance, it is not guaranteed to be deer-proof. Being proactive with protective measures and monitoring deer activity in your area can help ensure the survival and health of your Thunbergia plants.
