Deer are a common sight in many gardens and parks, but they can also be a major source of frustration for gardeners. These cute and graceful creatures can quickly decimate a garden, nibbling on your hard-grown plants and leaving them looking like toothpicks. But why do deer eat your plants, and what can you do to keep them away?
Deer are herbivores, and they eat a variety of plants, shrubs, and trees. In the wild, they feed on leaves, shoots, and twigs, but in residential areas, they are often attracted to ornamental plants, fruits, and vegetables. This is because they provide a readily available source of food that is easy to reach.
One of the main reasons why deer eat your plants is because they are hungry. They have a keen sense of smell and can detect food from a distance. In the winter, when food is scarce, deer are more likely to venture into gardens to find food. They are also attracted to areas where food is abundant, such as parks and suburban gardens.
Another reason why deer eat your plants is because they are looking for a place to hide. Deer are prey animals, and they instinctively seek out areas where they can hide from predators. Tall plants and bushes provide a good place for deer to hide and rest, and they may nibble on the plants while they are there.
To keep deer away from your garden, there are several things you can do:
Install a physical barrier, such as a fence, around your garden. This will prevent deer from accessing your plants.
Use deer repellent sprays. There are a variety of sprays available that contain unpleasant scents or tastes that deer find unappealing.
Plant deer-resistant plants. There are many plants that deer don't like to eat, such as daffodils, alliums, and lavender.
Use motion-activated lights and noise-makers. These can startle deer and discourage them from approaching your garden.
Provide alternative food sources for the deer, such as bird feeders or a vegetable garden in a different part of your yard.
In conclusion, deer can be a major problem for gardeners, but with the right strategies, it's possible to protect your plants and keep them safe from these herbivores. Whether it's by installing a fence, using deer repellent, or planting deer-resistant plants, there are many ways to keep deer from eating your plants.
Sources:
"Why Do Deer Eat My Garden Plants?" The Old Farmer's Almanac, https://www.almanac.com/content/why-do-deer-eat-my-garden-plants.
"How to Keep Deer Out of Your Garden." The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-keep-deer-out-of-your-garden-2656145.
"Deer-Resistant Plant List." The National Wildlife Federation, https://www.nwf.org/Garden-for-Wildlife/Wildlife-Inspiration/Deer-Resistant-Plant-List.