Are Deer Eating All of your Landscape Plants?

Deer Proof Plants for Ann Arbor, MI

   Across Michigan, but especially in Ann Arbor, Deer can be problematic for landscapes and gardens. I have witnessed, on multiple occasions, herds of deer strolling nonchalantly through backyards in the middle of the afternoon. It is not unusual to see hostas munched off nearly flush with the ground, and yews that have been reduced to nothing more than a few spindly branches. Although there is no such thing as a truly deer proof plant; deer will eat absolutely anything before starving, there are certain plants that are much more likely to be passed up by any hungry deer browsing the smorgasbord that is your garden.

Butterfly Bush usually goes untouched by deer.

Common Plants Least Likely to be Eaten

• ​Purple Cone Flower
• ​Salvia
• ​Bearded Iris
• ​Poppies
• ​Cranesbill Geraniums
• Yarrow
• Sweet Woodruff
• Ornamental Grasses
• Boxwoods
• Barberries
• Chinese Junipers
• Butterfly Bush

Common Plants Most Likely to be Eaten

• ​Hostas
• ​Black Eyed Susan
• Yews
• Daylily
• Periwinkle
• Lily
• Tulips
• Solomon's Seal
• Arborvitae

Hostas are often the first to go.

   If you are replacing plants that have already been eaten, it is important to plant something different. Deer operate on schedules and will gladly eat the same plants, in the same places, at the same times everyday. Furthermore, just like people, deer have unique tastes and if your neighborhood deer has been nibbling at your flowers, you already know they enjoy that particular plant. ​​If  unsure about whether deer will eat a specific plant, a good rule of thumb is that plants with strong odors usually go uneaten.
​   Whether you appreciate deer in your yard or not, if you've spent time, energy, and money making your landscape beautiful, you probably don't want them eating your plants. If you're replacing plants or creating new landscaping, it's the perfect time take into consideration how wildlife could impact your future yard. When it comes to landscape design, there are unlimited options. There is always a plan that can be attractive while still meeting the specific needs of your property.

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