Resistance of Ornamentals to Deer Damage

Damage to ornamental plants by white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus) has increased during the past decade. This increase is attributed to: 1. rising deer populations; 2. human populations shifting to rural and suburban homesites; 3. loss of deer habitat to development; and 4. landowner decisions to prevent deer hunting.

The best approach to control deer damage is an integrated pest managment (IPM) plan, which includes careful monitoring of any one, or a combination of the following strategies: population management, fencing, repellents, or vegetation management.

In the short run, damage to ornamental plants is largely irreversible. Damage, particularly in suburban areas with good-quality deer habitat, probably will increase. However, by planting ornamentals not favored by deer, landscapers and homeowners can attempt to preserve vulnerable landscapes.

Deer Feeding Habits   

Deer feed selectively on fertilized and unfertilized landscape plantings and managed croplands. Costly browsing damage may be reduced or eliminated by planting less-preferred species or by establishing susceptible plants only in protected areas. A few strategies to consider include planting susceptible plants close to the house or in a fenced yard, or planting preferred species inside a protective ring of less-preferred species. Under most circumstances, landscaping based on a knowledge of deer feeding preferences provides an alternative to expensive chemical repellents and unsightly physical barriers.

Whether deer will target a particular plant species or variety depends on their previous habits and nutritional needs, plant palatability, seasonal factors, weather conditions, geographic area, and availability of alternative foods. Deer are creatures of habit, and previous movement patterns or foraging experiences can determine where damage will occur. Also, one plant species may be rarely damaged in one region or the country, but highly preferred in another due to differences in deer pressure and other factors. Examples of species with noted regional differences include holly, white pine, and deciduous magnolias. Therefore, caution must be taken when using plant preference lists from areas outside your own.

In general, damage from browsing is most severe when snow cover or extreme cold has reduced food availability. Another problem time is early spring when young succulent growth of ornamentals provides attractive browse before other spring growth is avialable. When food is in short suply, deer will browse even the most undesirable plants. Under such conditions, landscapers should combine damage control measures with careful plant selection. Damage control measures could include repellents, physical barriers (fencing), and deer population control. Ultimately, reducing the deer herd size is the most effective solution.

Plant Damage List   

The following list contains many ornamental plants adaptable to West Virginia landscapes and notes their susceptibility to deer damage. This information is useful both to select plants that are unlikely to be damaged by deer and to identify those ornamentals that frequently require protection. Two categories are included: Rarely Damaged, and Frequently Damaged. The placement of plants in these categories is based on the experiences of nursery operators, landscape contractors and designers, West Virginia Extension Service personnel, research staff, and professional horticulturists. The information derives from personal communications, published articles, and unpublished reports. Please note that deer-browsing resistance of a plant species changes according to fluctuations in deer populations, alternative food availability, and environmental factors. No plant is safe under all conditions.

Plants listed in the Rarely Damaged category are eaten infrequently by deer and are the best candidates for damage-prone landscapes. Frequently Damaged category plants often require physical or chemical protection. Before planting any of the species listed, check to ensure that they suit local climatic and soil conditions.

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References
Fargione, M.J., P.D. Curtis, and M.E. Richmond. 1991. "Resistance of Woody Ornamental Plants to Deer Damage." Publication 147HGFS800.00 Ithaca, NY: Cornell University.
Bartlett, Michael. 1995. "Deer Resistant Plants." Bethesda, MD: Landscape Designs.
Gibbs, D. 1995. "Deer Resistant Plants for the Home Landscape." Chevy Chase, MD: Maryland-National Capitol Park and Planning Commission.