University of Vermont Extension System
Department of Plant and Soil Science

Deer Resistant Perennials OH 64

Leonard P. Perry, Extension Associate Professor

Deer have been a problem all along for landscapes, but more so in recent years with increased deer populations, even in urban areas, partly from decreased predators and laws in some communities protecting wildlife. Although no system will totally work all the time, some are more effective than others. Much of the effectiveness depends on the size of the deer population, availability of other and preferred food sources and the system itself. These and other factors explain why a repellent may work well at one site and not at another, or a perennial is attractive at one site and not another.

Least effective are perhaps taste and smell repellents, making plants smell or taste objectionable. If deer are hungry enough, or prefer a certain plant, these objections are easily overcome. However, they are the least expensive methods and so a good starting point. They can be purchased from many feed stores and suppliers. Also falling into this category, and having received some study are soaps. It appears the more odor from the soap (such as those found in finer hotels), the more objectionable to deer. These may be purchased from hotel supply firms or wholesale grocers and food clubs. Large bars can then be cut into quarters. Soap should be hung in original wrappers or cloth bags in order to help keep from dissolving too fast. They should be hung about every 10 feet from plants, stakes, fences or similar aboveground objects. Soap dissolving on branches may attract voles. Human hair from hair salons is also reputed to work as a repellent as are predator urines.

Moderately effective are noise deterrents, if used properly. Deer quickly become used to stationery objects and sounds and so if ultrasonic or similar sound emitters or radios are used, they should be rotated frequently. Mixed results have been reported with the often expensive ultrasonic units. If radios are used they should be tuned to all night talk shows, as human voices are more effective than music, and don't have to be very loud to be effective. Radios may also be placed on timers to go on and off periodically throughout the night. A small instrument shelter, doghouse or equivalent can be used to protect radios in the field from the elements. Outdoor speakers might also be installed, which can double in the day for music for employees and announcements. Louder noises such as the sound canons used in orchards can also be useful, if they don't disturb neighbors as well or violate local noise ordinances.

More effective are the physical deterrents such as fences. A high fence (8 to 10 feet) is perhaps best but also most expensive. Less expensive is a double or triple strand electric fence. Place strands about 2 to 3 feet off the ground, and about 4 feet apart. The deer often refuse to jump both. Best is a triple system, with the two strands as above and another in between but about 5 to 6 feet. This forms a fairly impenetrable triangle, and while not too high for deer to jump, they can't clear all strands once the width is also considered. Some have found good luck with only one strand of electric wire which is baited with peanut butter. This latter system is perhaps cheapest (as low as $2 per linear foot) of the more effective physical deterrents. Monofilament fishing line may also be strung between 10 ft. posts, strands about 2 ft. apart with streamers tied to them so the deer will see them (they do not see well and may knock down the lines otherwise). If guns or bow and arrows are used, be sure and follow all safety precautions, local ordinances and state laws concerning hunting. Poison baits are not recommended as in addition to often being considered inhumane are often illegal and easily work into the food chain killing predator animals as well.

Deer resistant perennials-- those they generally don't eat-- may be used or placed in more sensitive areas such as along property boundaries. Even these may be eaten if deer are under severe pressure and stress for food.

Deer "resistant" perennials.

Return to Perry's Perennial Consumer Page

Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture. Lawrence Forcier, Director, UVM Extension System, Burlington, Vermont. University of Vermont Extension System and U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating, offer education and employment to everyone, without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status.

Last reviewed 3/31/97