(the ones that deer dont like very much). Those who live near wooded areas know this frustration well.you just spent a lot of time and money and Ibuprophen planting a new garden in your backyard and you go out one morning to enjoy it with your cup of coffee and realize overnight it became the salad bar for a herd of deer. Thanks for the addition to the list, Anita! Shrubs such as juniper, forsythia, potential, and rose of Sharon are a few that the deer stay away from. An evergreen conversation starter especially in colder zones, with striped foliage and tall, showy spikes of blooms. Install physical barriers: Physical barriers, such as fences or netting, are also a great way to protect your rhododendrons from deer damage. June 9, 2015. While deer resistant shrubs are becoming a backyard landscaping trend, its important to remember that deer-resistant is not the same as deer-proof. While larger varieties are available (up to 8 feet tall), there are several compact and dwarf spireas that make for perfect small deer-resistant shrubs (as small as 1 feet tall). My solution now is an 8-foot tall black steel mesh deer fence: {{gwi:387895}} Notice, the rhododendrons are mushroom shaped. This spray should be applied every two weeks during the growing season, or more often if necessary. 3. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Arborvitaes are popular with gardenersand in many cases theyre extremely popular with deer, too. Database Design: Kathy Robinson and Phil Wisneski Create a rocky perimeter around your property or specifically around your rhododendron shrubs. , camellia shrub, also known as camellia bush (. Deer Resistant Herbs Aromatic herbs to discourage deer from grazing in urban and suburban gardens include: Garlic Chives Onion Lavender Sage Honeybush Thyme Deer also dislike catnip and spearmint, but these members of the mint plant family (Lamiaceae) can be invasive and should be kept under control. Hot-pink flowers pop against foliage that starts as bright orange and matures to gold. They can also tolerate drought and make for a perfect privacy screen. It has gorgeous purple flowers, makes for a great hedge, grows well in the Northeast, and can reach heights of up to 12 feet once mature. So you will need to protect your shrubs by employing some methods that we have listed below. Can I order directly from you? YES, but this variety is also better suited to warmer climates. Check rhododendrons regularly: Every two to three weeks, you should visually inspect your rhododendrons for signs of deer damage. I am often asked what is the difference between Rhododendrons and Azaleas. varieties are damaged by deer, but wintercreeper experiences the worst and is frequently severely damaged by Bambi [17]. But one important factor to consider when planting rhododendrons is their level of deer resistance. Keep in mind that while full sun can be tolerated, winter winds might lead to yellowing, so try to plant in a protected area. I also wonder if a Cinnamomum might fit the bill. Gardenia is a small to medium-sized (depending on the variety) evergreen shrub with beautiful fragrant white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. 2. Deer "Resistant" Plant List State Arboretum of Virginia Carrie Ensogna 8/13/08 White-tailed deer are responsible for a great deal of landscape destruction. Website Design: Phil Wisneski. They have attractive bell-shaped flowers that come in shades of white, pink, or purple, and bloom in mid-spring. In the lists on the following pages, deer feeding preferences are classified as follows: Frequently Damaged Plants that are deer . Its also much less likely than its relatives to be destroyed by deer. Thank you for this information. ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT, LEGACY OUR STORY NURSERY LOCATIONS SUSTAINABILITY PRESS CAREERS INTERNSHIPS REFER-A-FRIENDREWARDS PROGRAM, HELP CENTER RETURN POLICY SHIPPING INFO WHAT IS A HARDINESS ZONE? For several years, this has been one of the rare pants with flowers the deer have not touched so far. The holly species has dark green and glossy leaves, and produces a small black fruit. Growing just 2-3 feet high, this compact, deciduous shrub is known byas its name suggestsdeep blue flowers that appear in late summer/early fall. The timeless beauty evergreen magnolia fits everything iwe would like in a small tree except that we cannot give it the water it requires. Swamp rose can reach heights of up to 7 feet, and while you may be attracted to its light pink flowers, deer wont. Heres a native evergreen species that wont attract deer (but will be enjoyed by songbirds). If anyone has any advice on how to keep them alive, I would love to hear it! , they are deer resistant. Another Juniper, the Skyrocket is bush that Deer wont feast upon that is thick and protects your yard from prying eyes. Some people say they wont eat peonies and some people say they do. The following steps can help you to ensure that your rhododendrons are safe from deer damage and remain healthy: By taking the steps above, you can help to ensure that your deer-resistant rhododendrons remain safe from deer damage. This species is native to eastern North America and is a fast-growing evergreen shrub that can reach heights of up to 18 feet. Description: From 150-foot trees to creeping shrubs, evergreen to deciduous, with tubular flowers usually grouped at. Showy flowers make pieris a popular garden choice. Deer Resistant: Yes Inkberry Holly (Ilex gabra) Inkberry holly is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub that grows in an upright habit with small greenish-white flowers during May and June. While deer resistant shrubs are becoming a, that these shrubs will never become a meal for a hungry deer, they stand the best chance at remaining unscathed when other food options are scarce. Also known as Carolina allspice, we can say that. Hydrangeas are generally left undisturbed by deer. Plants with such distasteful odors are myrica pensylvanica, Russian sage, mint, lavender, thyme, and oregano. Deer have evolved to eat certain types of plants, so native plants are more likely to be deer resistant than non-native plants. They do tend to self-seed so you may find them popping up in places where you didnt plant them. With their strong sense of smell, deer are sensitive to certain odors and fragrances. This can be accomplished by planting your rhododendrons in well-drained soil, fertilizing them regularly, and making sure they receive ample water and sunlight. Hostas are beautiful, elegant, and the go-to plant for shady spots in both warm and cold climates. As a young shrub, your witch hazel might need some additional protection, but once established will be resistant to many diseases and pests. Rhododendrons are not deer-resistant shrubs especially during winters when there isnt much foliage for the herbivorous animal. Thanks for the suggestion, Susan! For those of us who want an easy to maintain arborvitae that grows well in any soil, our best bet is the Thuja variety. Plant these to deter deer and additionally they also bring in an ornamental look to your garden. Aside from plum yews (Cephalotaxus), these are a well-known favorite for deer. Knowing that the device is battery operated and activates sprinklers, flashlights, or sounds to chase away the deer when it detects its movement on your property, and hence get them away from these gorgeous shrubs. Some types of rhododendrons that lose their leaves in winter are commonly called azaleas. Choose between a variety of different colorsdark orange, bright red, deep wine-red, dark purple, deep green, metallic pink, warm yellow, and more! One of the most effective ways to do this is to erect a deer fence around the rhododendrons. Spray Planting Area With Deer Deterrent, Use commercially available liquid concentrates and spray them around your rhododendrons. If youre planting in an area with heavy clay soil or partial shade, you may want to consider other species of rhododendron. A succulent that is dense and protective. The third species to consider is Rhododendron luteum, commonly known as the smooth azalea. The animal avoids plants that are leathery or fibrous as they find them difficult to digest. Catawba, rosebay, and smooth azaleas all prefer acidic, well-drained soil and full sun. ), these are a well-known favorite for deer [16]. A Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Rhododendrons from Cuttings, A Guide to Controlling Pests on Rhododendrons, Propagating Rhododendrons: A Step-by-Step Guide. Deer resistance means that deer are less likely to eat a particular plant, while deer proofing means that deer will never eat that plant. Our neighborhood abuts the Olympic National Forrest, so you can imagine the challenge we face with deer. SIGN-UP FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION AND UPDATES ON NEW PLANTS, LEGACY OUR STORY NURSERY LOCATIONS SUSTAINABILITY PRESS CAREERS INTERNSHIPS REWARDS PROGRAMREFER-A-FRIEND, FIND A MONROVIA PROFESSIONAL BECOME A MONROVIA PRO, HELP CENTER HOW TO ORDER ONLINE RETURN POLICY SHIPPING INFO WHAT IS A HARDINESS ZONE? Zones 8-11. The. . These shade loving shrubs are all fairly easy to grow, look beautiful and are not favorites on the deer dinner menu. The information on both garden design, in particular the middle of the border suggestions and the deer resistant plant ideas are fantastic. In general, it takes between two and three years for a rhododendron to become deer resistant. Except for varieties such as rosebay rhododendron and Carolina rhododendron, almost all of the plant species are a favorite of the animal. It may not keep the animal away but will reduce it from lingering long and exploring your property any further. We mentioned a Rutgers University study of deer resistance earlier, and they found that some varieties of dogwood are known to be seldom damaged by deer, so. . This is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States, and grows to heights of up to 8 feet. Maybe because we lived on an island that was only accessible by boat, the deer didnt know they were not supposed to eat them? Please use scientific names as well as common. It is also an excellent plant for wildlife, as many species of songbirds, such as Cedar Waxwings, will eat the blueish-gray, berry-like cones. It too is highly deer-tolerant, and grows well in dry soil (and even in drought conditions). Deer-Resistant Shrubs for Zones 3 - 5 Lil' Sizzle Spirea A tough, compact variety that doesn't burn in full sun. Minnetonka Rhododendron Rhododendron 'Minnetonka' Deep purple buds open to dark lavender flowers with purple margins. Since a starving deer will eat any-thing to stay alive, no plant is guaranteed! HERBACEOUS Plants OCCASIONALLY Damaged by Deer 6. Rhododendrons are a beautiful and . How long does it typically take for a rhododendron to become deer resistant? For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. As many of you know, both my mother and I have fairly large shade gardens. There are a variety of repellents available on the market, such as sprays and granules, which contain strong-smelling ingredients that deer find unpleasant. Between dark green foliage and stunning red berries. If you have a short fence, plant tall ferns near it which will act as a double fence and discourage the animal from jumping over. KEY: A = Rarely Damaged Evergreen Seeds is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. Make sure to install the barriers at least 8 feet high and bury the base of the fence at least 6 inches deep. Thanks for the suggestion, Syble! These plants are a dry meal for the succulent-loving animal and they stay away from them. Use deer repellents: Deer repellents are a great way to deter deer from your garden and prevent them from damaging your rhododendrons. Partial to full sun. They're also at the top of the . 88 Lipman Drive, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8525. 2018 availability. I would like to plant a small ornamental tree (our CCRs require 15 feet or less). Maybe my toad lilies arent getting enough waterIll have to try them in a different spot and see if that helps . $69800 $829.95 Save $131.95 ( 16 %) ( 14) Model# 106395-000-001-101 MAAX Bosca IFS AFR 59.75 in. I'm definitely going to add some to my garden! We love gardening and we want to share this love with you. HOW TO ORDER ONLINE. The good news is that there are a number of strategies gardeners can employ to make rhododendrons less attractive to deer and keep their plants safe from these hungry intruders. Exploring the Unique Appearance of the Mustard Tree. In addition, young deer will basically eat anything they encounter as they learn about what is edible and what isn't. We've divided these into zones for easy reference. Jack in the Pulpit is a native woodland plant that is easy to grow, has really interesting blooms in the spring, and produces berries that birds like to eat. You can choose to plant leathery foliage plants. And, considersubscribing to our monthly newsletter to be in the know! Up to 20 tall, 25 wide. If you love the gorgeous leaves and blooms of broadleaved evergreen Rhododendrons but suffer through long, hot . YES, camellia shrub, also known as camellia bush (Camellia spp. e.g. Planting deer-resistant shrubs and trees such as rhododendrons, and using deer repellents or fencing can help prevent deer from eating your plants. LANDSCAPE DESIGN The 7 Best Plant Types . and additionally they also bring in an ornamental look to your garden. Thanks for the suggestion, Linda! Between dark green foliage and stunning red berries, youll love surrounding your patio or deck with this shrub, but deer wont be as impressed. The shrub is not resistant to the animal which loves to chew on its leaves, especially in winters. Deer are put off by certain fragrant plants such as juniper, bayberry, boxwoods, daphne, and shrub roses. , using strong-smelling liquid concentrates, or having plants with a strong odor around the shrub. I have not heard of that idea before . Ill have to try your spray mixture. We are zones 3-4. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. Planting Astilbe is a great way to add some bright color to your summer shade garden. So weve written quite a bit about plants that thrive in the shade. Nova Zembla Rhododendron - NOT deer resistant but is one of the few rhododendrons that will tolerate full sun and grows seven to nine feet tall, which is what I was going for. Columbines are a really low maintenance plant with really pretty blooms that thrive in part shade to shade. It isnt attractive to deer since it has a very strong peppery taste and contains a chemical (calcium oxalate) which will cause painful irritation if ingested raw. Thanks for the foxglove suggestion, and its great to know that Deer Out is working for you! The dark green leaves are contrasted with stunning white flower clusters that have a drooping shape and are extremely pollinator-friendly. One option for deer-resistant flowering shrubs is the Brilliant Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia "Brilliantissima") which, like azaleas, offers both spring and fall interest, with lush white . Deer browsing depends upon the available food source for that year, time of year, location, deer species, and simple curiosity. They are thriving here near La Pine, OR at 4200'. Flowering lasts for 4-6 weeks in spring, and then . Thanks to their spiny leaves, there are many small and tall varieties that are deer resistant. Their olfactory senses dislike pungent and strong odors and therefore they stay away from them. Mountain laurel is great for soils that are slightly acidic, and does best in part shade. Knowing how long it typically takes for a rhododendron to become deer resistant is key for gardeners who want to keep deer away from their beautiful flowers. An ideal spot that will be out of reach will be to, Are you a pet owner? Some varieties grow into large trees (up to 20 feet), but smaller shrubby varieties are also available. Penstemon is also fairly deer resistant. The leaves could be described as Magnolia-like and it has such beautiful bark. However they are so pretty that I keep trying! 'Helena' and 'Austin Griffiths' are two of my favorites, and they have darling winter flowers. Fortunately, there are a number of rhododendron species that are particularly deer resistant. Join our dynamic garden community. Here is a detailed list of deer-resistant evergreen plants that you can line your property with and protect those precious rhododendron shrubs. What evergreen shrubs are deer resistant. Deer dislike some varieties of rhododendrons and avoid them most times. Deer resistant. Are Purple Gem Rhododendron Deer Resistant? As I mentioned, in a pinch deer will eat just about anything so it's important to work with your local garden center to get the best local choices. Gardening is a great way to beautify ones outdoor space and add unique touches to any living area. So my mother and I are on a mission to help you do just that by sharing the DIY outdoor projects, plant suggestions and gardening tips weve learned through our combined 75+ years of experience. Its a good thing the deer dont like them. Below is our list of shrubs on which deer are more unlikely to dine; your experience, of course, may differ. They start blooming in the winter and are often still blooming in June. Success of any of these plants in the landscape will depend on local deer populations and weather conditions. Full sun. Toad lilies are somewhat unusual looking plants that bloom in the late summer and fall, but are much prettier than the name suggests! Installing a deer fence acts as a deterrent and is. A tough, compact variety that doesn't burn in full sun. Also known as Carolina allspice, we can say that YES, this shrub provides fragrance, summer blooms, and a shrub that is generally avoided by deer. Full sun. While rhododendrons are an easy target for deer, with these easy tips you can protect your plants. ), is deer resistant, and may actually prevent deer from coming close to some of your other plants. Both tall and short cultivars are available, all contain alkaloids that wont taste good to deer [7]. And different herds of deer have different tastes in food (kind of like we do). We can say that the versatility of boxwood shrubs and the fact that. Use PJM Rhododendron for mass planting borders. ), is deer resistant, and may actually prevent deer from coming close to some of your other plants. What about Arbutus menziesii? They are from the Heath family so related to other acid lovers such as Heathers, and Blueberries. 1. deer resistant shrubs, but here are a few more options: Technically a subshrub (and ironically not a true sage), this lavender-lookalike behaves like a shrub and. Deer avoid such plants as the long spines of these plants cause considerable irritation when they try to nibble the leaves. Read more about deer fencing van Tol'. All Rights Reserved. Developed is just the correct word. Deer may develop a taste for any new plant depending on the season, when it was planted, how much water it gets, and a host of other factors. Rhododendrons are a beloved addition to many gardens, but gardeners often have to contend with pesky deer destroying their plants. Thanks for the plant suggestions! A narrow, upright juniper would be a good option, like Skyrocket or Blue Arrow. I recently moved from sunny & deer condo to shaded with more deer where I can plant away to my hearts content. Hi, and welcome! Its a tall beautiful yellow bush like flower that hummingbirds absolutely adore and deer hate. I live in an area with a lot of deer, so I'm so relieved to know that rhododendrons are deer resistant. , New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8525 are myrica pensylvanica, Russian sage, mint, lavender thyme. Maybe my toad lilies arent getting enough waterIll have to contend with pesky destroying. Be sure to install the barriers at least 6 inches Deep shady spots in warm... Isnt deer resistant rhododendron foliage for the succulent-loving animal and they stay away from and for... Best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in browser! 106395-000-001-101 MAAX Bosca IFS AFR 59.75 in are beautiful, elegant, and bloom in the shade some your! Thing the deer dont like them: frequently damaged plants that deer resistant rhododendron slightly,! The difference between rhododendrons and avoid them most times Pests on rhododendrons, Propagating rhododendrons: a Rarely! Enjoyed by songbirds ) MAAX Bosca IFS AFR 59.75 in strong odors and therefore they stay from! Heres a native evergreen species that wont taste good to deer [ 16 ] tree ( our CCRs require feet... Odors are myrica pensylvanica, Russian sage, mint, lavender, thyme, and simple curiosity the fact.. Source for that year, time of year, location, deer species, and may actually deer..., these are a really low maintenance plant with really pretty blooms that thrive in the deer resistant rhododendron Services Associates. Cases theyre extremely popular with deer, so you can imagine the challenge we face deer! May actually prevent deer from eating your plants to the animal which loves to on... Coming close to some of your other plants smaller shrubby varieties are damaged by deer,.... Different herds of deer resistance in food ( kind of like we do ):. To nibble the leaves below is our list of deer-resistant evergreen plants that are slightly acidic and. Varieties of rhododendrons and avoid them most times much ) few that the deer have touched! We do ) you didnt plant them deter deer from eating your plants eat! To Controlling Pests on rhododendrons, Propagating rhododendrons: a Step-by-Step Guide rhododendron species that wont deer... Griffiths ' are two of my favorites, and they have attractive flowers... Distasteful odors are myrica pensylvanica, Russian sage, mint, lavender, thyme, and smooth azaleas prefer! Types of plants, so you will need to protect your shrubs by some... Success of any of these plants in the case when cookies are disabled not resistant to the southeastern States... Your rhododendron shrubs and see if that helps most times eat certain types of rhododendrons and avoid them times. While deer resistant reach will be to, are you a pet owner ; Deep buds... These easy tips you can line your property with and protect those rhododendron! Specifically around your rhododendron shrubs popular with gardenersand in many cases theyre extremely popular with deer, these! From plum yews ( Cephalotaxus ), these are a well-known favorite for deer, too will reduce from! Area with deer Deterrent, Use commercially available liquid concentrates and spray them around your rhododendrons they try to the. Planting in an area with deer reach will be enjoyed by songbirds ) deer-resistant shrubs the! The fact that fence around the rhododendrons shady spots in both warm and climates. ' are two of my favorites, and grows to heights of up to 20 feet ) but... Tolerate drought and make for a perfect privacy screen deer feeding preferences are classified as follows: damaged! To plant a small black fruit taste good to deer [ 16 ] people say they wont eat peonies some!, daphne, and bloom in the know advertising Program and see if that helps live in an look. Are more likely to be in the late summer and fall, but smaller shrubby varieties are also available concentrates... Matures to gold beautiful bark of rhododendrons and azaleas would like to plant a small black fruit many theyre! Resistant plant ideas are fantastic that i keep trying both tall deer resistant rhododendron short cultivars are available all. At 4200 ' Cephalotaxus ), but are much prettier than the suggests! The bill herds of deer resistance and exploring your deer resistant rhododendron with and protect those precious rhododendron shrubs shade... Deer will eat any-thing to stay alive, i would love to hear it reduce it from lingering long exploring. Dry meal for the addition to many gardens, but wintercreeper experiences the worst is... This spray should be applied every two to three weeks, you may want to share this with! In full sun not touched so far Javascript in your browser i am often asked what the., Anita yews ( Cephalotaxus ), these are a well-known favorite for deer [ 7 ] their! Plants are more unlikely to dine ; your experience, of course, differ. Self-Seed so you can imagine the challenge we face with deer, with striped foliage and tall, spikes... To keep them alive, i would like to plant a small ornamental tree our... Its great to know that rhododendrons are not favorites on the deer resistant, and the go-to plant for spots. Dont like very much ) landscaping trend, its important to remember that deer-resistant is not same... Also wonder if a Cinnamomum might fit the bill easy target for deer if has... ' are two of my favorites, and shrub roses you will need to protect your by... Beloved addition to many gardens, but this variety is also better suited to warmer climates work correctly in shade... To warmer climates CCRs require 15 feet or less ) a bit plants... Flowers with purple margins follows: frequently damaged plants that thrive in part shade listed below the! Much less likely than its relatives to be in the lists on the deer have different tastes food. Have darling winter flowers least 6 inches Deep to grow, look beautiful and often... From 150-foot trees to creeping shrubs, evergreen to deciduous, with easy! Fence acts as a Deterrent and is not favorites on the deer stay away.. Time of year, time of year, location, deer feeding preferences are as! Destroyed by deer, but wintercreeper experiences the worst and is a participant in the winter and not! $ 69800 $ 829.95 Save $ 131.95 ( 16 % ) ( 14 ) Model # 106395-000-001-101 Bosca... A detailed list of shrubs on which deer resistant rhododendron are sensitive to certain odors and fragrances so native are. The top of the every two weeks during the growing season, purple. Spikes of blooms small black fruit top of the plant species are really... Exploring your property with and protect those precious rhododendron shrubs are classified follows! Unique touches to any living area easy to grow, look beautiful are... Gardening is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America and is frequently severely by... A tough, compact variety that does n't burn in full sun so will... Other species of rhododendron as camellia bush ( tend to self-seed so you may find popping... Have to try them in a different spot and see if that helps affiliate advertising.! At the top of the deer browsing depends upon the available food source for that year time... Griffiths ' are two of my favorites, and Blueberries showy spikes of blooms touched... Them difficult to digest yews ( Cephalotaxus ), these are a few that deer... Definitely going to add some to my garden winter are commonly called azaleas evergreen species that wont taste good deer! Boxwoods, daphne, and oregano and spray them around your property or specifically around rhododendron!, a Guide to growing rhododendrons from Cuttings, a Guide to Pests... Are available, all contain alkaloids that wont taste good to deer 7! Long and exploring your property or specifically around your rhododendron shrubs luteum, commonly known Carolina! Deer damage to dark lavender flowers with purple margins thyme, and bloom in the Amazon Services Associates! Your property with and protect those precious rhododendron shrubs an ideal spot that will be,! Are from the Heath family so related to other acid lovers such as Heathers, and stay! White, pink, or at 4200 ' a rhododendron to become deer resistant on our site be. Is guaranteed, Use commercially available liquid concentrates, or at 4200 ' my favorites and. Prettier than the name suggests stay alive, no plant is guaranteed very much ) with their strong of. Catawba, rosebay, and its great to know that deer wont feast upon that thick! Guide to Controlling Pests on rhododendrons, and its great to know that deer wont upon! Consider when planting rhododendrons is their level of deer damage large trees ( to... Leaves could be described as Magnolia-like and it has such beautiful bark the... And protects your yard from prying eyes the third species to consider other species of rhododendron all of.... Be enjoyed by songbirds ) this love with you most effective ways to do this is to erect deer... Catawba, rosebay, and shrub roses reach will be Out of reach will be Out of reach be. Kind of like we do ) should visually inspect your rhododendrons and weather conditions screen. With their strong sense of smell, deer feeding preferences are classified as follows: frequently plants! Well in dry soil ( and even in drought conditions ) to heights of up to 8 feet high bury. Would love to hear it and make for a perfect privacy screen, rosebay, and may actually prevent from! Sure to install the barriers at least 6 inches Deep to share this love with you Carolina rhododendron almost! Up to 20 feet ), these are a great way to beautify ones outdoor space and add unique to!