26 Ultimate Deer-Proof Plants for Your Garden
Are you tired of finding your prized plants eaten down to nubs by hungry deer? As a gardener, few things are more frustrating than seeing a plant tag labeled "deer resistant" only to discover your new additions demolished overnight. Today, I'm sharing 26 truly deer-resistant plants that have proven their worth in my garden. These plants aren't just deer resistant – the deer hate them so much, you could consider them deer repellent!
Flowering Plants
1. Daffodils (Zones 3-8)
Daffodils are naturally deer-resistant thanks to their toxic compounds. These cheerful spring bulbs thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-draining, moderately fertile soil. While yellow is classic, you can find daffodils in various shades, including pure white. They're easy to divide and will naturally spread if you leave the spent blooms on.
2. Allium (Zones 3-9)
These architectural beauties add height and texture to flower beds. Their strong onion-like smell keeps deer at bay. Plant them in full sun and well-draining soil for best results.
3. Hellebore (Zones 4-9)
Also known as Lenten Rose, hellebores are shade-loving plants that offer early-season blooms when little else is flowering. Their toxic foliage and flowers deter deer, while their stunning appearance persists from spring through fall.
4. Lavender (Zones 5-9)
Perfect for slopes and well-draining sites, lavender's strong fragrance naturally repels deer. While it prefers sandy or rocky soil, it can handle clay as long as it's not waterlogged.
5. Russian Sage (Zones 4-9)
This aromatic plant features silver-grey foliage and tough stems that deer avoid. For bushier growth, cut it back in June. The stems provide winter interest, so consider waiting until spring for final pruning.
6. Butterfly Bush (Zones 5-9)
True to its name, this plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds while deterring deer with its rough leaves and strong scent. Grows best in well-draining, slightly alkaline soil.
7. Hardy Salvia (Zones 4-9)
The pungent-smelling leaves keep deer away. Cut it back after its first blooms for a second flush of flowers. Note that its tender, more voluptuous counterparts lack the strong scent and are less deer-resistant.
8. Foxglove (Zones 4-9)
This biennial plant is toxic to deer and remarkably easy to grow from seed. Plant in July or early August for spring blooms, and let some plants self-sow for continuous generations.
9. Agastache (Anise Hyssop) (Zones 4-9)
This tough perennial has a licorice-like scent that deer avoid. It's great for tea and self-sows readily – keep spent blooms out of your compost unless you want it everywhere!
10. Hummingbird Mint (Zones 5-10)
While it may not overwinter reliably in all areas, this anise-scented plant is worth growing as an annual. Start indoors for best results.
11. Bee Balm (Zones 3-9)
With its strong minty fragrance, this plant naturally deters deer. Look for powdery mildew-resistant varieties, especially among the newer, shorter cultivars.
12. Catmint (Zones 4-8)
Available in many varieties with different sizes and growth habits, all types are deer-resistant thanks to their aromatic foliage. The tubular flowers attract hummingbirds.
13. Cleome (Spider Flower) (Zones 10-11, grown as annual)
Spiny stems, strong scent, and sticky foliage make this annual completely unappealing to deer.
Groundcovers
14. Ajuga/Bugleweed (Zones 3-9)
This shade-tolerant ground cover features bitter foliage and purple spring flowers. Its low growth habit helps discourage deer browsing.
15. Creeping Phlox (Zones 3-9)
Perfect for slopes and clay soil, its slightly prickly texture deters deer while providing beautiful spring color.
16. Lamb's Ear (Zones 4-8)
The fuzzy, soft leaves that children love to touch are surprisingly unappealing to deer. Easy to divide and spread.
17. Creeping Jenny (Zones 3-9)
Its rapid growth and dense coverage make it less attractive to deer. Works beautifully in containers as a trailing plant.
Foliage Plants
18. Fern (Zones 3-8)
The coarse texture and bitter taste make ferns naturally deer-resistant. Perfect for shady spots.
19. Dusty Miller (Zones 8-10, grown as annual)
Its silvery, fuzzy leaves are unattractive to deer while adding beautiful contrast to the garden.
20. Amsonia (Zones 3-9)
The milky sap and tough foliage make this plant unappetizing to deer.
21. Ornamental Grasses (Zones vary)
Their coarse blades and lack of appealing foliage make these an excellent deer-resistant choice for adding structure to the garden.
Herbs
22. Rosemary (Zones 8-10, grown as annual in cooler zones)
Strong aromatic oils keep deer at bay. Needs full sun and well-draining soil.
23. Thyme (Zones 5-9)
Its pungent fragrance makes it naturally deer-resistant. Perfect for rocky or sandy soil.
24. Sage (Zones 5-9)
Both the strong scent and fuzzy leaves make sage unpalatable to deer.
25. Mint (Zones 3-9)
The strong menthol aroma repels deer effectively. Best grown in containers to control spread.
26. Oregano (Zones 5-10)
Its pungent fragrance and slightly bitter taste keep deer away. Prefers well-draining, sandy soil.
Design Tips
When planning your deer-resistant garden, consider these strategies:
Incorporate foliage plants for year-round interest
Use groundcovers to reduce mulching needs
Combine plants with different textures and heights
Include herbs for both culinary use and deer resistance
A Note of Caution
While these plants have proven deer-resistant in my garden, remember that deer behavior can vary by region and season. During times of extreme hunger, deer might eat plants they normally avoid. Also, some commonly recommended herbs like basil and parsley aren't actually deer-resistant in my experience – their scent isn't strong enough to deter determined deer.
Looking Ahead
I'm currently experimenting with additional plants behind deer fencing, including Brunnera, Pulmonaria, and Toad Lily. If you're struggling with deer damage to vulnerable plants like tulips and hydrangeas, stay tuned for upcoming tips on deer-proofing your garden.
