I'm dealing with a frustrating deer problem! My property is surrounded by woods, and even with fencing, those pesky deer still find a way to munch on my plants. Just last week, a branch fell on my fence, and within hours, they devoured my Hostas down to the ground. While Hellebores have been a success (and are now my favorite), they're quite expensive. I currently have some boxwoods, peonies, hydrangeas, and a few other plants, but I'm on the lookout for more flowering options that will bloom from spring to fall or colorful shrubs (I'm particularly fond of purple). My garden has five large beds that are mostly bare right now, so any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Definitely check out Sweet Alyssum, Catmint (Nepeta), and Russian Sage; those are great deer-resistant options that add charm to your garden! Also, Monarda (Bee Balm) and Lavender attract pollinators and survive well against deer. They’ve performed excellently in my garden!
Hellebores are really reliable here, and they spread pretty well too! For deer resistance, you might want to consider camellias, rhododendrons, and peonies. However, a few specific plants that work well for me include Daffodils, Irises, and variegated winter Daphne – it's an evergreen shrub that blooms in early spring and is super deer-resistant! If you're going for something fragrant, try sweet box (sarcococca confusa) or chindo viburnum. Both are easy to grow and seem untouched by deer. Good luck with your garden!
I've had a couple of butterfly bushes for years, and the deer never bother them! They produce beautiful purple flowers all summer long. Just be careful with hostas – they’ve been a snack for the deer in my garden, too! I’ve also had luck using homemade chive water as a deterrent; it’s worked wonders on my hostas! Good luck with your plants!
That chive water sounds like a great idea! I haven't tried that yet, but I might give it a shot—anything to keep those deer away!
I've also had success with autumn brilliance ferns. They stay evergreen in my zone, and deer don't usually nibble on them!