Deer Resistant Garden Plan

Ornamental Plants

• Growing ornamental plants that deer won't destroy depends on making the right plant choices from the outset. While no plant is completely deer-proof, says Patti Simons of the Native Plant Society of Texas, "some plants are quite tasty to deer, others less so. Depending on the density of the deer population, drought conditions and the availability of other more palatable plants, some plants are more resistant than others."

  Selecting a variety of plants that don't appeal to deer will make your garden less likely to attract deer in the first place. Rutgers University provides a list of plantings ranked by deer resistance.

Edible Plants

• Deer-resistant fruits and vegetables are limited in selection, as most plants that are edible by humans are also delicious to deer. According to research from Rutgers University's Agricultural Experiment Station, certain strongly flavored herbs such as anise and rosemary may be less attractive to deer. However, even the least appetizing plants, left unprotected, may be eaten by deer if no other food is available.

Fencing

• Adequate fencing "is the only sure way to control deer damage," say C.E. Swift and M.K. Gross in their April 2008 fact sheet for the Colorado State University Extension. Options include standard 8-foot woven wire fencing, electric fencing, and polypropylene mesh barriers. Also available are various types of netting and tubing to protect young trees. Consult with your county or state extension office for the best options in your area. Electric fencing may not be appropriate for your property.

Repellents

• Many commercial repellent preparations are available, but according to the Colorado State University Extension, "a spray of 20 percent whole eggs and 80 percent water is one of the most effective repellents." Plants should be treated on any areas of new growth or budding that you wish to protect. The mixture must be reapplied every 30 days.

Combined Approach

• If you live in an area with a large deer population, combine different elements of protection for the best garden plan. Select ornamental perennials that are not appealing to deer, treating with repellent as needed and contain edible plantings within an appropriate enclosure. This approach will provide you the maximum enjoyment and utility in your garden with a minimum of effort.