In the Garden Blog
Cincinnati's Garden Blog "In the Garden"
Deer-Proof Your Garden: A Guide to Thriving with Delightful and Deer-Resistant and Low Browse Perennials
Indulging in the pleasures of gardening brings a sense of tranquility and beauty, yet the intrusion of munching deer can quickly turn it into a battle. But fear not, fellow gardeners, for we have a solution: deer-resistant and low-browse perennials. Let’s delve into these resilient beauties that not only withstand but thrive in the company of our antlered neighbors.
Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Envision rows of fragrant lavender swaying gracefully in the breeze, their purple spikes evoking serenity. Remarkably, deer turn away from this aromatic herb! Planted in sunny spots with well-drained soil, they flourish while keeping those pesky deer at bay.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian sage stands tall as a floral fortress in your garden, its silvery foliage and lofty, wispy blooms forming a barrier that deer simply won’t breach. With its drought tolerance and minimal upkeep requirements, this perennial shines in deer-resistant landscapes.
Sedum (Sedum spp.)
Succulent and sturdy, sedums fulfill every gardener’s dream. These adaptable plants come in various forms, from creeping ground covers to upright blooms. Not only do they enhance your garden with texture and color, but they also repel deer with their thick leaves and unpalatable taste.
Catmint (Nepeta spp.)
This member of the mint family boasts aromatic foliage and delicate spikes of flowers that allure pollinators while warding off deer. Planted in full sun, its long-lasting blooms illuminate the growing season.
Yarrow, a resilient perennial and a deer-resistant powerhouse, showcases feathery foliage and clusters of petite flowers that add a romantic touch to any garden. Additionally, its drought tolerance and appeal to beneficial insects make it a win-win for both you and your garden’s ecosystem.
Peony (Paeonia spp.)
Reigning as the queen of the garden, peonies exude elegance and low browse for deer. Their large, fragrant blooms and lush foliage make a striking statement, while their bitter taste wards off deer. Planted in well-drained soil, they promise years of breathtaking beauty.
Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
Soft, fuzzy, and utterly captivating, lamb’s ear is a delightful inclusion in deer-resistant gardens. Its silver-gray foliage adds texture and allure, while its resilience to drought and poor soil renders it a steadfast choice for any garden environment.
Create a harmonious garden without the headache. By selecting deer-resistant perennials like lavender, Russian sage, sedum, catmint, yarrow, peony, and lamb’s ear, you can craft a garden sanctuary that thrives without succumbing to deer appetites. So, plant with confidence and revel in a garden that’s as enchanting as it is impervious to deer intrusion!
Take a look at our deer resistant and low browse perennials!