Yellow Daisy Bush & Deer

Description

• Also known as a golden daisy bush or Euryops, the yellow daisy bush comes in both a larger, green-leaved variety (Euryops pectinatus "Viridis") that quickly grows to 4 to 6 feet in height and width and a smaller, gray-leaved dwarf variety (Euryops pectinatus "Munchkin") that grows to a more modest 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. It needs little care after establishment and has success in containers, borders, rock gardens and with seacoast exposure.

Deer-resistant Status

• The yellow daisy bush is seldom severely damaged by deer or elk and is often listed as resistant to deer. Because it does not attract deer, the yellow daisy bush can be an especially beneficial border plant. As a border plant, the yellow daisy bush can allow other, more deer-attractive plants to be less conspicuous to or more difficult to reach by roaming herds.

"Deer Proof"

• Though the yellow daisy bush is listed as deer-resistant, no plant can be claimed fully safe from deer. Some deer damage comes from deer walking on or brushing against plants rather than actually eating them. Further, some herds or particular deer may be more attracted to certain foods than others. In time of severe hunger from overpopulation, overgrazing by other animals, famine or drought, deer will stray from their normal eating habits and cause damage to just about any food source they can find.

Vulnerable Times

• The time when plants tend to be the most susceptible to deer damage is early in spring when new growth is occurring. The fleshier parts of plants, such as tender branches, flowers and berries, are the most attractive to deer. Deer will also venture closer to homes in extreme weather. In the winter, snow is shallower and fields are better taken care of close to human populations. Similarly, in drought, yards tend to be better irrigated and better vegetated than open land. If your area has a high deer population, deer may be eating more foods atypical to their diets.