Oh Deer! What Plants, Shrubs and Trees Won't They Eat?

Diana Knapp spends many hours a day at Hahn's Nursery in Ross talking about deer.

Specifically, she counsels customers on how to prevent their flowerbeds, shrubs, and trees from becoming buffets for the white-tailed visitors.

The list of plants resistant to deer might be longer than you think. (see attached .pdf), and there are few basic rules of thumb.

“Most of the grasses they never bother," Knapp said. "And there are grasses for sun, grasses for shade. A lot of times things that have a fuzzy texture, or a really strong odor, they will stay avoid.”

For the plants, which deer do like, Knapp suggests a three-pronged attack.

1. Plastic guards to prevent deer from rubbing off the protective bark of younger trees.
2. Netting for fruits and vegetables
3. Deer repellents, either liquid or granular.

"Deer repellent products work if you apply them about once a month," said Knapp. "Unless it rains, then you have to reapply as soon as it’s done raining."

And if all else fails?

"Sometimes a nice, high fence is the only way,” she said.

What do you do to protect your plants, flowers and gardens from deer? Please share your ideas in the comments box below.

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