We have a peculiar relationship with deer. On one hand, we adore them, but on the other, they can be a significant thorn in our side. As they devour various garden plants, it’s easy to see why many of us find ourselves in a love-hate dynamic with these creatures. Deer are agile and athletic, capable of reaching speeds that would put some Olympic athletes to shame. They can leap six feet into the air, making them formidable competitors on the track.
Their prey-driven instincts also drive their foraging habits, which often means they grab food quickly without much care for what’s around them. This makes it a challenge for gardeners who want to coexist peacefully with these critters. If you’re struggling to maintain a beautiful and bountiful garden that’s enjoyed by your family and not just the local deer population, consider the following list of deer-resistant plants to help you plan a garden that keeps these furry friends at bay.
What Makes Plants Deer Resistant?
While some plants possess inherent toxicity that deters deer from grazing, strong-smelling flowers also seem to be unappealing to these herbivores. Many herbs and flowers we find fragrant are, in fact, repulsive to deer. However, there appears to be no clear pattern as to what deer will or won’t consume. As someone involved in wildlife rescue, I’ve observed fawns cohabiting with goats each spring.
In my experience, hostas typically serve as a deer’s smorgasbord, yet mine remain untouched (fingers crossed!). Conversely, my pine trees are a culinary haven for these creatures. It’s essential to consider the season, region, and plant variety when determining what a deer will eat, so some trial and error may be necessary.
Shade Loving Deer Resistant Plants
While some may view shade plants as unexciting, I firmly believe they possess a certain je ne sais quoi. Many species boast striking blooms and captivating foliage that create a visually appealing contrast when juxtaposed in the garden. Moreover, numerous ornamental shade plants exhibit remarkable resilience to deer predation, making them an attractive option for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet high-reward experience.
Hellebores (Helleborus spp.)
Hellebores thrive in environments with partial shade, spanning across zones 4-9. Reaching up to two feet in height, these early-blooming plants can even burst forth with flowers during the winter months, depending on your geographical location. This timing allows them to kickstart your spring garden in a stunning manner. When paired with bleeding hearts and cyclamen, hellebores create a visually appealing display that showcases their unique beauty.
Begonias (Begonia spp.)
Begonias thrive in conditions that are characteristic of their tropical origins: rich, moist soil and partial to full shade. This makes them an ideal choice for containers, such as pots and planters, where their roots can be easily controlled and they receive the right amount of sunlight. The flowers themselves come in a stunning array of shapes and sizes, with some varieties boasting showy blooms that reach up to six inches across, while others feature daintily ruffled petals.
In zones 3-10, begonias bloom from summer through frost, providing a vibrant display of color for several months.
Toad Lily (Tricyrtis hirta)
The charm of Toad Lilies lies in their distinctive, dappled blooms. Characterized by delicate petals adorned with playful polka dots, these flowers create a whimsical display that’s sure to delight. In zones 5-9, Toad Lilies typically bloom during late summer and early fall, offering a welcome splash of color amidst the autumn foliage. Their low-maintenance requirements make them an attractive option for gardeners of all skill levels.
As if their beauty weren’t enough, these lilies also happen to be a favorite among bees. Unfortunately, deer tend to leave them alone – a bonus for those looking to protect their gardens from unwanted visitors.
Bleeding Heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis)
Bleeding heart flowers (Dicentra spectabilis) are renowned for their delicate, heart-shaped blooms that dangle like tiny ornaments from the foliage. The vibrant colors of these early spring beauties make them a popular choice among gardeners. The fern-like leaves provide a lovely contrast to broadleaf plants like hostas and other flowering perennials. With a hardiness range of zones 3-9, bleeding heart flowers are an excellent addition to many gardens.
Astilbe (Astilbe spp.)
Astilbe is a reliable performer in shade gardens, boasting feathery flowers that rise on slender spikes amidst foliage reminiscent of ferns. This versatile perennial comes in a range of colors including pink, red, purple, and white, making it an attractive addition to any shade-loving arrangement. Pair it with other stalwarts like hostas and ferns for a harmonious display. Astilbe is hardy in zones 3-8, ensuring its beauty will endure through the seasons.
Sun Loving Flowers That Resist Deer
Decorative gardens are often the unwitting victims of deer predation. These unsuspecting areas, such as those located at the end of driveways or along sidewalks, provide deer with a sense of security and an easy opportunity to snag a quick snack.
By incorporating deer-resistant plants into your design, not only will you be able to deter these unwanted visitors from indulging in a drive-by buffet, but you’ll also have the added benefit of illuminating these typically sunny spaces with vibrant colors and textures.
Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)
When it comes to landscaping, incorporating plants that are toxic to deer can be an effective way to deter these unwanted visitors. However, it’s essential to consider the potential impact on other grazing animals like goats and sheep. For instance, members of the amaryllis family contain a toxin called lycorine that is harmful to mammals. This family includes snowflakes and snowdrops, making them unsuitable for animal-friendly gardens.
On the other hand, daffodils are a great option to consider. While they’re often thought of as plain yellow flowers, they actually come in a range of colors and petal shapes, making them a more exciting choice than initially meets the eye. With hardiness zones ranging from 3-8, daffodils can thrive in many parts of the country. When planting daffodils, autumn is an ideal time for spring blooms to follow.
Foxgloves (Digitalis spp.)
Foxglove is a striking plant that boasts bell-shaped flowers in vibrant clusters, reaching heights of elegance. As a biannual, it has a natural tendency to self-seed readily. While it thrives in part shade and nutrient-rich organic soil, it can adapt to full sun if your region’s climate isn’t overly intense. Foxglove is hardy in zones 4-10, making it a versatile option for many gardeners.
However, it’s essential to note that the plant contains toxins that may be detrimental to humans and deer alike.
Poppies (Papaver rhoeas)
While Dorothy may have delighted in running through fields of poppies, it’s essential to remember the importance of handling these flowers with care. The isoquinoline alkaloids found in Oriental poppy plants are toxic and can cause sedation, irritation, or even harm if ingested by humans, pets, or wildlife. In fact, deer are particularly susceptible to the effects of these compounds, which can lead to drowsiness and discomfort.
As such, it’s crucial to keep these flowers out of reach from children and pets to ensure a safe and enjoyable gardening experience. With proper care, Oriental poppies are relatively easy to cultivate in zones 3-9, making them a lovely addition to any meadow or garden design.
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum)
Snapdragons hold a special place in the heart of my youngest son. The delicate dance of their petals, opening and closing with gentle pressure on their ‘mouths’, is a charming trait that’s hard to resist. With a kaleidoscope of colors to choose from, snapdragons are a vibrant addition to any flower bed or container. While they thrive in zones 8-9 as perennials, gardeners outside this range can still enjoy them as annuals, bringing a splash of color and whimsy to their outdoor spaces.
Silver Mound (Artemisia schmidtiana)
When it comes to adding visual interest to your garden, I’m a big fan of pairing silver mound with vibrant blooms. The leaves of this lovely plant have a unique texture that’s often described as silky, and their silvery hue provides a beautiful contrast to the surrounding colors. While silver mound doesn’t produce showy flowers itself, it has a distinctive fragrance that not only repels deer but also attracts humans.
This deer-resistant beauty is surprisingly easy to grow and thrives in zones 3-9.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian sage’s slender, feathery stalks are adorned with vibrant purple blooms, attracting a flurry of busy bees throughout the summer months, right up until the first fall frosts. This low-maintenance perennial is surprisingly adaptable, thriving in USDA zones 5-9 and tolerating varying soil conditions with ease.
Peonies (Paeonia)
Saying goodbye to winter’s chill and hello to spring is a perfect opportunity to introduce some beautiful peony bushes into your garden. Their large, fragrant blooms are truly stunning, although they do have one drawback – their lifespan is relatively short. However, this trait has an added benefit: deer tend to dislike the scent of peonies, making them a great choice for colder climates and hardy in zones 2-8.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
While it’s widely recognized that bees have a sweet spot for bee balm, it’s less well-known that deer tend to avoid this flowering beauty. One reason for this is the plant’s unique appearance – its spiky flowers are designed to hang around all summer long, creating a striking display in any garden. Reaching heights of up to three feet, bee balm is perfect for planting at the center or back of a bed, where it can really make an impact. And the best part?
It thrives in both sunny and partially shaded conditions, making it a great choice for gardeners in zones 4-9.
Bearded Iris (Iris germanica)
While deer may be drawn to other water features, the iris is surprisingly resistant to their interest. In fact, this lovely plant thrives in moist, sunny conditions, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance option. Unlike some plants that require careful cultivation from seed, irises grow from rhizomes, allowing you to simply plant them in late summer and let them get established. With their vibrant colors and varied sizes, irises are sure to bring beauty to any garden.
And the best part? They’re perfectly happy in zones 3-9, making them a versatile choice for gardeners across a wide range of climates.
Hollyhocks (Alcea)
If the charm of a quintessential Victorian cottage garden is what you’re after, then hollyhocks are definitely worth considering. These hardy biennials thrive in zones 2-10 and offer a striking visual display, particularly when planted along a picturesque picket fence. Some varieties can grow up to eight feet tall, featuring large, showy flowers that measure around four inches in diameter.
Gladiolas (Gladiolus)
Gladiolas, often abbreviated to glads, boast tall spikes adorned with vibrant flowers that ascend along the stems. When planted alongside shorter, contrasting blooms and foliage plants, they create a striking backdrop that’s sure to captivate. One of the unique aspects of growing glads is that they emerge from corms, which should be carefully planted after the last frost has passed.
For gardeners in USDA Hardiness Zones 6 and below, it’s also possible to dig up the corms at the end of the growing season, storing them in a cool location over winter before replanting them the following spring.
Herbs
While herbs may not be a typical consideration for gardening enthusiasts, they are incredibly versatile and valuable additions to both culinary and medicinal pursuits. Moreover, their beauty makes them a desirable feature in any outdoor space. Among the many species of herbs that can thrive in a garden setting, there is a subset that is particularly noteworthy for its deer-resistant properties.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow, a resilient and adaptable herb, can grow to an impressive height of up to three feet. Its affinity for sunlight means it flourishes in zones 3-9, making it a suitable choice for gardeners with varying climates. What’s more, this hardy plant is surprisingly tolerant of subpar soil conditions. Notably, yarrow exhibits natural resistance to deer and numerous other pests, rendering it an attractive option for those seeking low-maintenance gardening solutions.
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
While Sage’s hardiness against deer nibbles is well-documented, its growth habits are also noteworthy. Specifically, common Sage (Salvia officinalis) thrives as a perennial in zones 5-9, where it can reach up to 2 feet tall and wide. In cooler climates, however, it behaves as an annual, requiring replanting each spring. I’ve had success growing one in my greenhouse for winter use, allowing me to enjoy its culinary and medicinal benefits year-round.
Lavender (Lavandula)
There’s something undeniably soothing about the fragrance of lavender, which is why I always keep a spritz bottle by my bedside to mist my pillow at night. What’s more, this calming scent happens to be a safe haven for our furry friends – fawns, in particular, don’t find it sweet or overwhelming. As an added bonus, lavender thrives in raised beds and prefers the warmth of zones 6-9, where its roots can breathe and it doesn’t have to contend with damp soil.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is a versatile and essential herb that deserves a place in every kitchen as well as deer-resistant gardens. Its hardiness varies depending on the specific variety, thriving in USDA zones 5 through 9. This fragrant plant prefers basking in full sun and enjoys soil that drains well, allowing its roots to breathe and its leaves to flourish.
Mint (Mentha)
While there’s a wide range of mint varieties to explore, from spearmint to peppermint, and even chocolate mint, one thing is certain: these plants are incredibly adaptable. Capable of thriving in zones 3-11, mint can be quite the prolific spreader. But what’s truly impressive is its ability to repel deer with its pungent scent and flavor – a natural deterrent that’s sure to keep these unwanted visitors at bay.
Coneflowers (Echinacea)
The drought-resistant coneflower, often referred to as Echinacea, boasts a vibrant display of large flowers that come in a diverse range of colors. This hardy flower can be easily grown from seed and thrives in well-compost-rich soil conditions. Notably, it has a relatively wide growing zone tolerance, adapting well to zones 3-9.
Parlsey (Petroselinum crispum)
With its lush, emerald-green foliage forming a stunning rosette, parsley is a sight to behold in any garden setting. Notably, this hardy herb thrives as a perennial in zones 9 and above, making it an excellent addition to your herb garden. Furthermore, parsley boasts the added benefit of being deer-resistant, ensuring a safe haven for these delicate plants.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
This stunning perennial boasts vibrant hues throughout the year, making it an excellent addition to any garden. To thrive, it requires direct sunlight and soil that drains well. While it typically flourishes in USDA zones 9 and above, its versatility allows it to do equally well when containerized. Simply place it outdoors during warm weather, then bring it indoors for the winter months to enjoy its beauty year-round.
Vegetables
While it’s common to associate vegetables with deer, the reality is that there are many options for deer-resistant plants that can thrive in a vegetable garden. In fact, incorporating these plants into your garden can be an effective way to coexist with local deer populations.
Onions, Leeks and Garlic (Allium)
When it comes to keeping deer at bay, certain strong-smelling plants like onions and garlic can be surprisingly effective. By planting these pungent specimens around the perimeter of your garden, you can create a natural barrier that deters deer from venturing into the more valuable plants inside. Notably, these types of plants typically thrive in USDA zones 5 and higher, although specific varieties may have slightly different hardiness limits.
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
When cultivating asparagus, it’s essential to take measures against deer predation during the plants’ early stages. Young shoots are particularly vulnerable to nibbling, so consider using protective methods like fencing or covering. As the plants mature, deer tend to lose interest in them. With proper care, asparagus can thrive in USDA zones 3-8 and remain a productive crop for years.
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)
Horseradish may not be a favorite among deer, as its pungent flavor is often too intense for them (and some humans!). This hardy perennial thrives in zones 4-7, requiring minimal maintenance once established. In fact, it’s one of those easy-to-grow plants that can be simply set and forgotten.
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
As the seasons transition into spring, one of the first signs of new life is the emergence of rhubarb from the earth. However, what’s often overlooked is that the leafy greens of this perennial vegetable are toxic not only to deer but also to humans in excessive quantities. With proper care and cultivation, rhubarb can thrive in zones 3 through 8.
Squash (Cucurbita)
Deer tend to steer clear of plants with fuzzy leaves and stems, much like melons and squash. It’s not hard to imagine why – those tiny, sharp fibers would be quite unappealing to their sensitive palates. On the other hand, certain types of squash are hardy enough to thrive in zones 5 and beyond, with a single plant capable of producing an impressive bounty.
Melons (Cucumis)
Melons are another type of plant that boasts fuzzy leaves and stems, making them an effective deterrent for deer. When it comes to growing melons, the ideal zone is 5 and above, with some varieties thriving in warmer climates. As sun worshippers, melon plants prefer the hottest and brightest areas of your yard, where they can soak up plenty of sunlight.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Fennel’s propensity for self-seeding means that, if left unchecked, it can quickly spread throughout your garden. On the plus side, its deer-repellent properties make it an attractive addition to any garden looking to deter these unwanted visitors. As a result, fennel is ideal for planting in deer-resistant gardens. Its hardiness also makes it suitable for a range of climates, thriving as both a biennial in zones 2-5 and a perennial in zones 6-10.
Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum)
While it’s commonly known that potato plants produce edible tubers, few people realize that the leaves themselves contain toxic compounds that are detrimental to deer and human consumption. On the other hand, potatoes can thrive in a wide range of growing zones, requiring only adjustments to planting schedules based on one’s geographic location.
Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum)
While it’s often claimed that nightshade family plants like tomatoes and eggplants are deer-resistant due to their toxicity to ruminants when ingesting the plant material itself, my experience during a severe drought was a sobering reminder that this isn’t always the case. Despite their supposed resistance, I lost over half an acre of tomatoes and peppers to hungry deer.
Nevertheless, with hundreds of tomato varieties available, you may be able to find one that thrives in your specific climate zone.
Carrots (Daucus carota subsp. sativus)
While deer have a special affinity for carrots, they tend to be more discerning when it comes to their age. Typically, they’ll leave immature carrots alone and only show interest in ripe ones. To avoid becoming a victim of their snacking habits, consider protecting your mature carrots or harvesting them before the deer can get to them.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
While ginger is typically hardy in zones 7 and above, it’s also possible to cultivate it in containers in cooler regions. Interestingly, deer tend to shun not just Asian varieties of ginger, but also its wild and European counterparts.
Plants That Repel Deer
These deer-deterrent plants are more than just resistant to nibbling – they actively repel Cervidae, making them an effective natural barrier for protecting your more fragile flora. Deer tend to avoid plants that cause discomfort or disrupt their sense of smell, as well as those with dense foliage and unappealing textures. Much like humans who learn to respect thorny bushes, cacti, and thistles after a painful encounter, deer develop a healthy fear of these unpleasant plants, too.
Blackberries (Rubus fructicosus)
When it comes to creating a natural barrier around vulnerable spaces, these berry bushes are an ideal choice. Not only will you have the added benefit of another crop to harvest, but blackberries develop particularly intense thorns that deer tend to avoid. The dense and prickly foliage makes them a top pick for keeping unwanted visitors at bay.
Chinese Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles speciosa)
The stunning beauty of quince trees is a sight to behold, especially when they’re in full bloom. But, beware, their thorny spikes can be quite intimidating. Standing tall at up to nine feet, these versatile trees are ideal for hedges and living walls. What’s more, deer tend to steer clear of them, leaving your quince harvest safe from unwanted snacking.
English Holly (Ilex aquifolium)
Holly plants, with their striking red berries and lush green leaves, evoke the festive atmosphere of Christmas. However, these same leaves come equipped with sharp spines that can cause discomfort if you’re not careful. This evergreen’s unique characteristics also make it a popular choice for landscaping in zones 6 through 9, but it’s essential to opt for the English holly species specifically.
While other cultivars may be softer and less intimidating to deer, elk, and other herbivores, they may lose their natural defense mechanism against these grazing animals.
Sloe, aka Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)
In contrast, the hawthorn species is more prevalent in the UK, mainland Europe, and less so in North America. Its fruit, specifically its berries, play a crucial role in the production of gin, giving it an air of sophistication.
On the other hand, the thorny nature of the plant’s branches has been utilized for centuries to construct cattle-proof barriers, which incidentally also serve as an effective deterrent against deer, allowing farmers and landowners to protect their crops without worrying about these pesky herbivores.
Hawthorn (Crataegus)
While some trees may seem welcoming to deer, these particular species are designed to be uninviting. Their thorny and spiky nature makes them excellent natural deterrents. The thorns can grow up to two inches long, providing an intimidating barrier against any would-be grazers. Furthermore, the serrated leaves of these trees have a unique property – they tend to cling tenaciously to fabric, fur, and other materials that come near, further discouraging deer from approaching.
It’s essential to note that not all Crataegus species boast thorns, so when selecting one for your landscape, be sure to double-check the species you’re interested in doesn’t lack this defensive feature.
Agarita (Mahonia trifoliata)
If you reside in a desert region like Arizona, Texas, or New Mexico, consider cultivating agarita plants. Also known as chaparral berry bushes or ‘currant-of-TEXAS’, these shrubs are not only striking but also prickly. Agarita bushes thrive in well-drained soils with medium fertility and perform optimally in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade. While they can tolerate slightly alkaline soils, their growth is most robust in a pH-neutral environment.
Hardy Orange (Poncirus trifoliata)
Citrus trees can be stunning assets for properties in zones 7 and above, but be cautious – some species can develop formidable thorns. Hardy orange trees are particularly prickly, with thick and sharp spines that deter deer. Interestingly, this feature makes them a popular choice for creating natural barriers to keep deer at bay. By planting multiple hardy orange trees close together, you can create a dense, impenetrable wall around areas you’d like to protect from these herbivores.
Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea)
If you’re seeking a deer repellent that’s as visually appealing as it is effective, look no further than Japanese barberry bushes. The delicate pale yellow blooms of these shrubs provide a beautiful contrast against the rich purple foliage, while their viciously spiny stems serve as an uninviting barrier for deer. To keep your Japanese barberry bush thriving, ensure it’s planted in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly sandy texture and situated in full sun to partial shade.
As this shrub is quite hardy, you can even enjoy its year-round interest down to zone 4b.
Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos)
One of the most striking features of this ancient tree species are its impressive spikes, which can reach an astonishing four to five inches in length. These formidable appendages likely evolved as a defense mechanism against giant herbivores, rendering them ineffective as deer forage. With optimal growth conditions found in zones 4-8, these trees also hold potential for innovative foodscaping applications.
Notably, the pulp within their pods is sweet and edible, earning its name and providing an alternative to refined sugar.
Mullein (Verbascum spp.)
The versatility of this herb is truly impressive, with its soft foliage offering a multitude of practical applications. Not only can it be used as makeshift bandages or toilet paper when needed, but its unique texture also seems to deter deer from approaching the plant altogether. It’s as if they’ve developed an aversion to the leaves’ peculiar sensation, opting instead to steer clear and avoid any potential discomfort.
Burdock (Arctium spp.)
Imagine the frustration of walking past a large burdock plant and finding yourself covered in its pesky, sticky, and prickly seeds. Deer and other animals are equally unhappy about these unwelcome visitors. In fact, they take great care to avoid them altogether.
If you have a section of your property that’s a hotspot for deer activity, consider planting the greater burdock (Arctium lappa) liberally in that area.
This tall, statuesque plant can grow up to six feet or more if left unpruned, forming an effective barrier against unwanted visitors.
Make Your Garden Deer-Proof
If you’re content with the deer presence in your yard but want to protect your plants from unwanted visitors, there are several creative ways to keep these furry friends on their own side of the fence. For a more effective approach, consider exploring commercial deer repellents or opting for homemade solutions that combine various plant species deer tend to dislike.
When designing your deer deterrent strategy, remember that these creatures follow established routes and paths through your property, making them hesitant to deviate from their familiar trails. To create an impenetrable barrier, intersperse plants with thorns, unappealing textures, and unpleasant scents. This combination of defense mechanisms will effectively deter deer from venturing into your yard.
Just be prepared for the possibility that your neighbors might appreciate your innovative solutions and ask to borrow a few ideas.
