Deer can be a beautiful sight in nature, but their foraging habits can wreak havoc on carefully maintained landscapes. For property owners in New Jersey, where deer populations are often high, choosing plants that are less appealing to these animals is a practical way to protect gardens and ornamental beds. Here’s a guide to the best deer-resistant plants that thrive in the Garden State.
What Makes a Plant Deer Resistant?
Deer resistant plants typically have characteristics that make them less appetizing. These include:
- Strong Aromas: Plants with strong scents, like lavender or sage, tend to repel deer.
- Thick, Leathery, or Spiny Leaves: Deer prefer tender foliage, so tougher textures can deter them.
- Toxic Compounds: Certain plants contain chemicals that are mildly toxic or unpalatable to deer.
While no plant is entirely deer-proof, incorporating these types of plants can significantly reduce the likelihood of damage.
Shrubs That Stand Their Ground
- American Holly (Ilex opaca):
- This native evergreen shrub has spiny leaves and bright red berries, making it a tough choice for deer to munch on.
- Inkberry (Ilex glabra):
- A New Jersey native shrub with dense, glossy leaves that deer usually avoid.
- Bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica):
- Known for its aromatic foliage, bayberry is an excellent deer-resistant option for coastal areas in New Jersey.
- Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus):
- Its brilliant red foliage in the fall is rarely disturbed by deer.
Perennials That Keep Deer at Bay
- Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta):
- These cheerful yellow flowers thrive in New Jersey’s climate and are tough and unappealing to deer.
- Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia):
- With its fragrant foliage and striking purple blooms, this plant is both decorative and deer-resistant.
- Bee Balm (Monarda didyma):
- A pollinator favorite that deer tend to avoid, making it perfect for New Jersey gardens.
- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium):
- This hardy perennial features feathery leaves and clusters of flowers, both of which deer dislike.
Trees That Resist Deer Damage
- Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana):
- A New Jersey native evergreen with tough, needle-like foliage that deer tend to avoid.
- River Birch (Betula nigra):
- Its peeling bark and resistance to pests make it unappealing to deer.
- American Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua):
- Known for its star-shaped leaves and spiky seed pods, this tree is rarely targeted by deer.
- Spruce Trees (Picea spp.):
- Known for their prickly needles, spruce trees are a natural deterrent for deer.
Tips for Enhancing Deer Resistance
- Plant in Layers:
- Create a buffer zone with highly deer-resistant plants around more vulnerable varieties.
- Incorporate Repellents:
- Use sprays or granules designed to deter deer, especially during peak browsing seasons.
- Choose Native Plants:
- Deer are often less interested in native plants that have evolved to thrive in their environment.
Balancing Beauty and Practicality
Designing a deer-resistant landscape in New Jersey doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. By selecting plants with natural defenses against deer, you can enjoy a vibrant, low-maintenance garden that stands up to wildlife pressures. With the right combination of shrubs, perennials, and trees, your landscape can remain lush and inviting—to everyone except the deer