Deer Resistant Perennial Plants

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Deer will sample almost anything, especially in the spring and late fall. Plants can only be considered deer resistant, not deer proof. Deer rely on their sense of smell to determine what to eat, and will always investigate freshly dug dirt. A wide variety of strong odors, especially with any new plantings, might confuse deer enough to cause them to leave your area to investigate the neighbors. We make no guarantees about what deer may eat, except that tomorrow it may be different (deer do not read lists, but for additional information, click on Rutgers Agricultural Experiment and UGA Department of Horticulture).

Deer generally do not like the follow varieties:

Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Purple Candles' ('Purpurkerze') (25) BR Plants

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Pink' PP11860 (4) 1-gallons

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' PP11965 (25) BR Plants

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' PP11965 (4) 1-gallons

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' (25) BR Plants

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Athyrium

Athyrium 'felix-femina' (3.5 inch pot)

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Athyrium

Athyrium 'Ghost' (20)ct Flat

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Athyrium

Athyrium 'Godzilla' (20)ct Flat

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Athyrium

Athyrium f-f. 'Fronds Forever' PPAF (20)ct Flat

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Athyrium

Athyrium felix-forma 'Lady in Red' (20)ct Flat

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Athyrium

Athyrium filix-femina 'Victoriae' (20)ct Flat

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Athyrium

Athyrium n. 'Crested Surf' PP33057 (20)ct Flat

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Purple Candles' ('Purpurkerze') (25) BR Plants

Astilbe chinensis 'Purple Candles' ('Purpurkerze') (25) Bare Root Plants Common Name: Astilbe-Chinese 'Purple Candles' quickly forms a compact graceful, fern-like mound of dainty foliage topped by bunches of fragrant, violet-red flowers, that...

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Pink' PP11860 (4) 1-gallons

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Pink' PP11860 (4) 1-gallons Common Name: Astilbe-Chinese Zones 4 to 9. Full sun to full shade. Plants reach 18 to 20 inches tall and 18 to 20 inches wide; Clump forming dwarf habit. Growth rate: Moderate, slow...

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' PP11965 (25) BR Plants

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' PP11965(25) Bare Root Plants Common Name: Astilbe-Chinese Forms a dense, fern-like foliage mound topped by clusters of fragrant, deep red buds open to pinkish-red flowers on full plumes in midsummer. Flowers are...

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' PP11965 (4) 1-gallons

Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' PP11965 (4) 1-gallons Common Name: Astilbe-Chinese Zones 4 to 9. Full sun to full shade. Plants reach 15 inches tall and 15 inches wide; Clump forming dwarf habit. Growth rate: Moderate, slow spreading, rhizomatous...

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Astilbe

Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' (25) BR Plants

Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' (25) Bare Root Plants Common Name: Astilbe-Chinese 'Visions' forms a dense, fern-like foliage mound topped by clusters of fragrant, raspberry pink flowers from early to midsummer. Flowers are densely packed into erect to...

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Athyrium

Athyrium 'felix-femina' (3.5 inch pot)

Athyrium filix-femina (3.5-inch pot)Common name: Lady Fern Height: 24-36 Inches Spread: 24-36 Inches Hardiness Zone: 3-8 Part Shade to Shade Deciduous Native Slow spreading by rhizomes Fine textured,light green,lacy-like fronds Tolerates sun with...

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Athyrium

Athyrium 'Ghost' (20)ct Flat

Athyrium 'Ghost' (20)ct FlatCommon Name: Ghost Fern A strong tall growing, light silvery gray-green almost glows, creating a ghostly appearance. Upright, arching, triangular delicate, lacey fronds have bluish to maroon midribs. Sterile hybrid sporeling...

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Athyrium

Athyrium 'Godzilla' (20)ct Flat

Athyrium 'Godzilla' (20)ct FlatCommon Name: Giant Japanese Painted Fern Like Athyrium n. ‘Pictum’ on steroids, this giant painted fern was discovered at Plant Delights Nursery in the mid-90s and is thought to be a sporeling of...

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Athyrium

Athyrium f-f. 'Fronds Forever' PPAF (20)ct Flat

Athyrium f-f. 'Fronds Forever' PPAF CPBRAF (20)ct Flat Proven Winners® Common Name: Lady FernMake a statement in the shade with this crested broad-leaved fern! Leaves are flat with cresting along the margins and a tassel at the end of each frond...

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Athyrium

Athyrium felix-forma 'Lady in Red' (20)ct Flat

Athyrium felix-forma 'Lady in Red' (20)ct FlatCommon Name: Lady Fern, Northern Lady Fern Vibrant red-burgundy stipes (stems), creates a sharp contrast with its lacy, green fronds. Stems red color becomes more vivid after second dormancy. Limit...

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Athyrium

Athyrium filix-femina 'Victoriae' (20)ct Flat

Athyrium filix-femina 'Victoriae' (20)ct Flat Common Name: Lady FernThis vigorous selection of A. filix-femina forms a dense mound of cascading dark green fronds. The end and sides of each pinna is crested in a crisscrossing pattern for additional...

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Athyrium

Athyrium n. 'Crested Surf' PP33057 (20)ct Flat

Athyrium niponicum 'Crested Surf' PP33057 CPBRAF (20)ct FlatCommon Name: Crested Japanese Painted Fern 'Crested Surf' looks similar in color to a traditional Japanese Painted Fern, but the tips of the fronds are double crested. A vigorous, taller variety...

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What are Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?

Deer-resistant perennial plants are those that are less likely to be eaten by deer. Deer are herbivores and will eat a variety of plants, but they tend to avoid plants that are unpalatable, toxic, or spiny. Some common characteristics of deer-resistant plants include:

Hairy or fuzzy foliage: The hairs or fuzz irritate deer's mouths and digestive systems.
Strong or unpleasant smells: Many deer-resistant plants have strong scents, such as lavender, sage, or rosemary, that deer find unappealing.
Bitter or soapy taste: Deer have a keen sense of taste and will avoid plants that taste bitter or soapy.
Tough or leathery leaves: These leaves are difficult for deer to chew and digest.

It is important to note that no plant is truly deer-proof, especially if there is a food shortage. However, planting deer-resistant perennials can help to reduce the amount of damage that deer do to your garden.

Here are some examples of deer-resistant perennial plants:

Columbine: These delicate flowers come in a variety of colors and bloom in late spring and early summer.
Coneflower: These daisy-like flowers come in a variety of colors and bloom from midsummer to fall.
Lavender: This fragrant herb has beautiful purple flowers and blooms in late spring and early summer.
Peony: These large, showy flowers come in a variety of colors and bloom in late spring.
Yarrow: This easy-to-grow perennial has flat clusters of yellow flowers and blooms from summer to fall.

When choosing deer-resistant perennials, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight, moisture, and soil type in your garden. You should also choose plants that are appropriate for your USDA hardiness zone.

How do I choose the right Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?

Choosing the right deer-resistant perennial plants for your garden requires considering several factors. Here is a guide to help you make informed decisions:

1. Consider your local deer population:

Deer pressure: How severe is the deer problem in your area? Frequent visitors require more resistant plants than occasional browsers.
Deer species: Knowing the primary deer species in your area helps target your plant choices. For example, white-tailed deer have different preferences than mule deer.

2. Think about your garden conditions:

Sunlight: Choose plants that thrive in the amount of sunlight your garden receives (full sun, partial shade, etc.).
Soil type and moisture: Opt for plants suited to your soil's drainage, pH, and moisture levels.
USDA Hardiness Zone: Select plants that can withstand the winter temperatures in your zone.

3. Research specific plant characteristics:

Deer resistance level: Not all deer-resistant plants are created equal. Some are highly unpalatable, while others might be nibbled occasionally under pressure. Read about individual plant resistance levels.
Bloom time and color: Choose plants with staggered bloom times to create year-round visual interest. Consider color palettes that complement your garden design.
Height and spread: Select plants that fit your desired design layout and mature size limitations.
Maintenance needs: Consider your time and effort availability. Choose plants with minimal maintenance requirements if needed.

4. Consult reliable resources:

Local nurseries and garden centers: Their staff can provide recommendations based on your specific location and conditions.
Gardening websites and publications: Look for reputable sources with information on deer-resistant plants and gardening in your region.
Native plant societies: Consider incorporating native plants, which are often naturally deer-resistant and support local ecosystems.

5. Remember, no plant is 100% deer-proof:

Multiple strategies: Combine deer-resistant plants with other deterrents like fencing, motion-activated sprinklers, or repellents (as a last resort).
Plant diversity: A diverse garden with various textures and scents can be less appealing to deer than a monoculture.
Monitor and adapt: Observe your garden and adjust your approach if needed. Experiment with different plants and deterrents to find what works best for you.

By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can choose deer-resistant perennial plants that thrive in your garden and provide lasting beauty while minimizing deer damage.

What are effective Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?

Here are some effective deer-resistant perennial plants based on their level of resistance and diverse characteristics:

Highly Deer-Resistant:

Columbine: Delicate, colorful flowers in spring and summer. Full sun to part shade.
Lavender: Fragrant purple flowers and beautiful foliage. Full sun, well-drained soil.
Catmint: Attractive to pollinators, blooms mid-summer to fall. Full sun, well-drained soil.
Yarrow: Flat clusters of yellow flowers, blooms summer to fall. Full sun, adaptable to various soil types.
Baptisia: Showy indigo flowers, attracts bees and butterflies. Full sun, well-drained soil.
Russian Sage: Spiky purple flowers, long bloom time. Full sun, dry soil.
Coreopsis: Cheerful yellow daisy-like flowers. Full sun, well-drained soil.

Moderately Deer-Resistant:

Coneflower: Daisy-like flowers in various colors, blooms mid-summer to fall. Full sun, well-drained soil.
Daylily: Easy-care with trumpet-shaped blooms in summer. Deer do love the blooms. Full sun to part shade, various soil types.
Liatris: Spiky purple flowers, attracts butterflies. Full sun, well-drained soil.
Astilbe: Feathery plumes of flowers in various colors, shade tolerant. Moist soil.
Salvia: Diverse genus with various flower colors and bloom times. Sun to part shade, well-drained soil.

Remember:

Deer pressure and preferences vary, so what works for one gardener might not be foolproof for another.

Combine deer-resistant plants with other deterrents like fencing or repellents for stronger protection.

Native plants are often naturally deer-resistant and benefit local ecosystems.

I hope this partial list helps you find effective deer-resistant perennial plants for your garden!

What are the benefits of planting Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?

There are many benefits to planting deer-resistant perennial plants in your garden. Here are some of the most important:

1. Protect your plants from deer damage: Deer can be a real nuisance for gardeners, as they love to munch on a variety of plants. By planting deer-resistant perennials, you can help to deter deer from your garden and protect your other plants from being eaten.

2. Reduce the need for fencing or repellents: If you do not have deer-resistant plants, you may need to install fencing or use repellents to keep deer out of your garden. These can be expensive and time-consuming to maintain, so planting deer-resistant perennials can save you money and effort.

3. Create a beautiful and low-maintenance garden: Deer-resistant perennials come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, so you can create a beautiful and unique garden that you will love. They are also generally low-maintenance, so you will not have to spend a lot of time caring for them.

4. Attract pollinators: Many deer-resistant perennials are also attractive to pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This can help to create a healthy and balanced ecosystem in your garden.

5. Save money on deer control: As mentioned before, deer fencing, and repellents can be expensive. By planting deer-resistant perennials, you can avoid these costs altogether.

6. Enjoy your garden more: When you do not have to worry about deer damaging your plants, you can relax and enjoy your garden more.

7. Help the environment: Deer can damage native plants and ecosystems. By planting deer-resistant perennials, you can help to protect native plants and create a more sustainable garden.

8. Wide variety to choose from: There are many different types of deer-resistant perennials available, so you can find ones that fit your gardening style and preferences.

9. Deer resistant plants are often low-maintenance: Once established, deer-resistant perennials typically require little care, making them a good choice for busy gardeners.

10. You can feel good about knowing you are doing your part to protect wildlife: By planting deer-resistant perennials, you can help to create a more wildlife-friendly garden.

Overall, planting deer-resistant perennial plants is a great way to protect your garden, create a beautiful and low-maintenance landscape, and attract pollinators. If you are looking for a way to improve your garden, I highly recommend trying them.

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Deer Resistant

What are Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?

How do I choose the right Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?

What are effective Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?

What are the benefits of planting Deer Resistant Perennial Plants?