Lifestyle & DIY Projects Plants & Vegetation susan July 23, 2024

Mums vs. Deer: Protecting Your Autumn Beauties From Hungry Visitors

Rate this post

Hey there, fellow garden enthusiasts! It’s Susan, your friendly neighborhood garden expert, here to talk about a topic near and dear to my heart: protecting those gorgeous fall-blooming mums from our four-legged friends, the deer.

We all adore the vibrant pops of color mums bring to our gardens as summer fades. But did you know deer find them equally appealing? It’s true! These seemingly innocent creatures can quickly turn your prized chrysanthemums into a sad, nibbled-on mess.

But don’t despair! I’m here to arm you with all the knowledge and strategies you need to keep those hungry deer at bay and ensure your mums remain the stars of your autumn garden.

Do Deer Really Eat Mums?

Unfortunately, the answer is a resounding yes! Deer are opportunistic herbivores with a diverse palate, and mums, with their tender blooms and foliage, are a tempting treat. They’re particularly drawn to gardens during the fall when their natural food sources become scarce.

Mums and Deer Resistance: Separating Fact from Fiction

While no mum variety can claim to be 100% deer-proof, some are definitely less appealing to these picky eaters. This “resistance” often comes down to factors like:

Strong Scents: Certain mums have a potent aroma that deer find off-putting.
Bitter Taste: Some varieties contain compounds that leave a bitter aftertaste, deterring deer from taking more than a nibble.
Fuzzy Texture: Deer tend to avoid plants with hairy or rough textures.

Here are a few mum varieties that typically exhibit some deer resistance:

Shasta Daisies (Chrysanthemum x superbum): These beauties boast large, daisy-like blooms and a strong fragrance that deer often avoid.
Painted Daisies (Chrysanthemum coccineum): True to their name, these mums feature vibrant blooms and a bitter taste that deer find unappetizing.
Common Daisies (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum): These cheerful daisies release a strong scent that can deter deer browsing.

Remember, even with these varieties, deer might still sample a bloom or two, especially if they’re particularly hungry. That’s why it’s crucial to have a multi-pronged defense strategy in place.

Building Your Anti-Deer Defense: Effective Strategies for Protection

Protecting your mums from hungry deer doesn’t have to be a constant battle. Here are some proven methods to keep them safe:

1. Physical Barriers:

Fencing: A tall, sturdy fence (at least 8 feet high) is often the most effective deterrent. Deer can jump surprisingly high, so make sure the fence is tall enough to discourage them.
Netting: Fine mesh netting can be draped over your mums to prevent deer from reaching them. Secure the netting to the ground to prevent them from pushing underneath.

2. Sensory Deterrents:

Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These handy devices startle deer with a sudden burst of water, sending them running in the opposite direction.
Noisemakers: Wind chimes, aluminum cans strung together, or even radios can create enough noise to deter deer, especially when combined with other methods.

3. Scent-Based Repellents:

Commercial Deer Repellents: Many effective repellents utilize scents that deer find unpleasant, such as putrescent egg solids or predator urine. Apply them regularly, especially after rain.
DIY Repellents: Create your own repellents using strong-smelling ingredients like garlic, hot peppers, or peppermint oil. Mix them with water and spray around your garden.

4. Companion Planting:

Deer-Resistant Companions: Interplant your mums with plants that deer naturally avoid, such as lavender, rosemary, catnip, or yarrow. The strong scents of these companion plants can help mask the appealing aroma of your mums.

5. Good Gardening Practices:

Cleanliness: Remove fallen fruit, vegetables, and spent blooms from your garden, as these can attract deer.
Watering Wisely: Water your plants in the morning so the foliage has time to dry before nightfall. Damp plants are more appealing to deer.

Creating a Deer-Resistant Garden: Tips for Long-Term Success

While individual strategies can be effective, a truly deer-resistant garden requires a holistic approach. Consider these tips for long-term success:

Diversify Your Plantings: Opt for a wide variety of plants, including those that deer typically avoid. This makes your garden less appealing overall.
Layer Your Defenses: Combine multiple deterrent methods for a more robust defense system. For example, use fencing alongside motion-activated sprinklers and deer-resistant companion plants.
Rotate Your Tactics: Deer can become accustomed to certain deterrents over time. Rotate your strategies regularly to keep them guessing.
Be Patient and Persistent: Deterring deer can take time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Consistency is key!

Remember, creating a beautiful and thriving garden alongside our animal neighbors is about finding a balance. By understanding deer behavior and implementing effective deterrent strategies, you can protect your precious mums and enjoy their vibrant colors all season long.