Tips for Creating a Deer-Proof Garden

Creating a beautiful garden is a joy, but for many of us, keeping our plants safe from deer can be a significant challenge. Deer are known to nibble on a wide variety of plants, often leaving our carefully cultivated landscapes looking like a buffet line. However, with some strategic planning and a few handy tips, you can create a garden that is both beautiful and deer-resistant. Here are some effective strategies to help you protect your garden from deer.

Choose Deer-Resistant Plants

One of the best ways to keep deer out of your garden is to plant varieties they tend to avoid. While no plant is completely deer-proof, some plants are less appealing to these hungry visitors. Here are a few deer-resistant options to consider:

Perennials:
Lavender (Lavandula spp.) – Fragrant and beautiful, lavender is rarely bothered by deer.
Bee Balm (Monarda spp.) – This plant not only attracts pollinators but also deters deer.
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) – Tall and striking, foxglove is completely deer resistant as it is toxic
Salvia (Salvia spp.) – Known for their vibrant flowers, salvias are often left alone by deer.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) – With its silvery foliage and purple blooms, it’s both attractive and deer-resistant.
Catmint (Nepeta) – This long bloomer is a favorite of gardeners, but not so much for foraging deer.

Shrubs:
Boxwood (Buxus spp.) – Evergreen and dense, boxwood is a popular choice for deer-resistant hedging.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii) – Not only does it attract butterflies, but it’s also not favoredby deer.
Japanese Pieris (Pieris japonica) – With its beautiful white flowers and evergreen leaves, this shrub is a great addition.
Spirea (Spiraea spp.) – Offering colorful blooms and foliage, spirea is typically ignored by deer.

Annuals:
Marigold (Tagetes spp.) – Bright and easy to grow, marigolds are usually deer-resistant.
Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) – With a variety of colors, snapdragons are rarely eaten by deer.
Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria) – Its silvery foliage adds contrast and is deer-resistant.

Grasses:
Maiden Grass (Miscanthus sinensis) – Ornamental grasses like this one are often avoided by deer.
Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides) – Attractive and low maintenance, fountain grass is a good option.

Organic Deer Repellents:
In addition to choosing deer-resistant plants, using organic repellents can help keep deer at bay. Here are a few effective options:

At Redwood Nursery we sell animal repellant from Bonide and Plant Skydd. Plant Skydd is blood and veg oil, Bonide is a hot pepper wax.

Fencing Tips:

Fencing is the most effective way to keep deer out of your garden. Here are some tips for creating a deer-proof fence:
• Height: Deer can jump quite high, so your fence should be at least 8 feet tall.
• Angle: A fence that angles outward can be more effective than a vertical one, as it is harder for deer to jump over.
• Materials: Use sturdy materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic. Electric fences can also be effective but require more maintenance and care.

Additional Tips:

• Plant in Layers: Create multiple layers of plants with taller, deer-resistant varieties on the outside and more vulnerable plants closer to your home. This can create a natural barrier.
• Use Motion Sensors: Installing motion-activated sprinklers or lights can startle deer and keep them away from your garden.
• Keep It Clean: Regularly removing fallen fruit and keeping your garden tidy can make it less attractive to deer.

By incorporating these strategies, you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving garden without the worry of deer damage. At Redwood Nursery, we’re here to help you select the best plants and supplies to create your dream garden. Visit us today to learn more about our range of deer-resistant plants and organic repellents.

Happy gardening!