Description: From 150-foot trees to creeping shrubs, evergreen to deciduous, with tubular flowers usually grouped at. A member of the heath family (Ericaceae), its cousins include rhododendron . While you may have to deal with pesky lacebugs, youll likely never see this shrub bothered by deer. Rhododendron leaves are very easy to digest, which is why deer love to eat them. If you have suggestions of plants that work better in your specific area, I would be very grateful to know of them! It is beautiful and absolutely poisonous to dear. Cold hardy. Foliage is a shiny dark green. Monkshood is a beautiful late summer, early fall flower that is poisonous and deer avoid. Since a starving deer will eat any-thing to stay alive, no plant is guaranteed! In the lists on the following pages, deer feeding preferences are classified as follows: Frequently Damaged Plants that are deer . Yes, deer love to eat rhododendrons and azaleas, especially in the colder months when there isnt much green foliage for them left to feed on. Are dappled willow shrubs deer resistant? sempervirens, an early-blooming species hardy to minus 25oF. varieties are damaged by deer, but wintercreeper experiences the worst and is frequently severely damaged by Bambi [17]. For even more nibble-me-not choices, please consult with a local garden center (find yours here). They're also at the top of the . Im making lemonade with this lemon like situation so were improving parking and planting for sun where we once had shade. This large shrub has beautiful yellow flowers and a wonderful scent. Read more about deer fencing Heres another reason: , all ninebark species are avoided by deer and other animals. I am often asked what is the difference between Rhododendrons and Azaleas. Let us summarize the key points from this article through the list below. No, Rhododendrons are not deer resistant and in cold winter months when there is not much foliage available for the animal, the tangy taste of the rhododendron leaves is a delight for them. Its easy to maintain, can be pruned and sheared, and while it doesnt have showy flowers, its lush, green foliage makes up for it (and can serve as a good screen). This spiny shrub is one typically avoided by deer. This species is native to eastern North America and is a fast-growing evergreen shrub that can reach heights of up to 18 feet. They have attractive bell-shaped flowers that come in shades of white, pink, or purple, and bloom in mid-spring. Thanks for the great suggestions! Here is a detailed list of deer-resistant evergreen plants that you can line your property with and protect those precious rhododendron shrubs. Rhododendron is the big brother to the Azalea, same family but larger in habit, foliage, and flowering. We are zones 3-4. Thanks for the suggestions, Bobbi! holly shrubs are deer resistant, thanks to the fact that their berries may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. . Deer dislike some varieties of rhododendrons and avoid them most times. For some taller varieties to form into a shade providing hedgerow/privacy screen, consider the following (all of which have dense foliage and upright pyramidal forms): A type of Juniper, these trees can reach heights upwards of 50 feet, resistant to deer, and would be great for blocking the sun! It does best in full sun, along with acidic soil that remains moist. Mountain laurel is great for soils that are slightly acidic, and does best in part shade. From vibrant blooms to distinctive foliage, there are countless ways to customize ones garden. Partial to full sun. Deer have poor color vision, so they are less likely to be attracted to plants with white, pink, or yellow flowers, as opposed to those with bright red or orange blooms. Selecting these varieties can make a big difference in how much damage deer will do to your rhododendrons. A word of caution here; these plants are toxic to pets as well. There is no habitat shrinkage here, in fact statistically nationwide there are more deer than in any previous century. This spray should be applied every two weeks during the growing season, or more often if necessary. By taking the time to choose the right variety of rhododendron and the right soil conditions for it, gardeners can greatly reduce the chances of their plants becoming a tasty snack for deer. 1 emersld triumph verbernon and 3 short grasses that do not get real tall or 3 smaller type of shrub. These silver colored leaves really stand out in the shade garden! Lucky for us, they do. WOODY Ornamental Plants SELDOM Severely Damaged by Deer 4. Consequently, deer can cause significant damage to a rhododendron plant in a matter of days. It will prevent the animal from exploring your property and eating those precious rhododendron shrubs. Not only that it is another deer resistant plant. The. This post was originally published on February 9, 2018 but was updated with new content on September 15, 2022. Database Design: Kathy Robinson and Phil Wisneski Evergreen With Fantastic Spring Show. Deer-resistant plants are those plants that deer do not prefer and generally avoid. This fast-growing juniper twists and turns to reach maximum heights of about 15 feet tall and grows best in USDA zones 2 through 10. Up to 4 tall and 5' wide, with up to 6 flower spikes. Zones 9-11. My deer are city deer and cant read deer resistant labels?. Most rhododendrons are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, although some variance exists between . As a common choice for hedges, this shrub also happens to be one of the most deer-tolerant plants around (note: it can also be toxic to pets). . They grayish-green leaves are beautiful, but the shrub is more commonly known for its fruitswhich also happen to be coated in a waxy substance that is aromatic, used to make soap, attractive to birds, and generally repellent to deer. I also gardened in zone 5 and deer never touched my rosesuntil they did. Deer love to munch on the leaves of the plant. Springshine Forsythia Forsythia may have a short bloom season, but when it is on, it is ON! Swamp rose can reach heights of up to 7 feet, and while you may be attracted to its light pink flowers, deer wont. Another great deer-resistant species is Rhododendron maximum, known as the rosebay rhododendron or great laurel. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. with Rutgers websites to: accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier or Provide Feedback Form. While they typically wont attract deer, do expect to see a lot of butterflies. Add to Cart. Tips To Keep the Animal Away. Its a good thing the deer dont like them. Windflower (or Snowdrop Anemone) have pretty white flowers over ferny foliage that bloom in late spring and may re-bloom in the early fall. I gave up on flowers, instead plant colorful foliage, Blue Star juniper, Yellow, Orange Rocket, Sunjoy barberry, and different varieties of boxwood. Full sun. I have not heard of that idea before . Zones 3-8. If you don't mind the deer stopping by but want to stop short of rolling out the welcome mat for them, here are five perennials and shrubs to not plant, and some ideas for what you can plant instead. These elegant broad-leaf evergreens produce, abundant clusters of 2 wide flowers around Mother's Day, some with blotches or freckles in a variety of colors from white, pink, purple, red and yellow. Deer-resistant plants are those that the animal will stay away from due to their prickly foliage, furry leaves, and strong scents. If you wish to share our content, please click here to see our conditions. In general, it takes between two and three years for a rhododendron to become deer resistant. However, if you want to check a plant that isnt on this list, you can try looking it up on the deer resistant plant list fromRutgers University. Some varieties grow into large trees (up to 20 feet), but smaller shrubby varieties are also available. Content: Pete Nitzsche, Pedro Perdomo, and David Drake Theyre also fast growing, and can reach up to 20 feet in just a few years. Also lavender has worked well, and it blooms in summer. If youre planting in an area with heavy clay soil or partial shade, you may want to consider other species of rhododendron. WOODY Ornamental Plants RARELY Damaged by Deer Common boxwood Spruce 2. Rhododendrons are shrubs with showy flowers in spring, usually in shade of white, pink, purple and red. In this article, well take a look at some of the most deer resistant rhododendron species and discuss how to select the best plants for your garden. Zones: 3-8 . Stay Protected with Plant Sentry. 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. Common boxwood. Remove it in spring before the shrubs begin to bloom. Junipers are some of the most common deer resistant shrubs that also happen to be great at. If nearly non-stop blooms, fragrant foliage, and silvery-grey illuminating effect werent enough, theres thisdeer want no part of it. Minnetonka Rhododendron Rhododendron 'Minnetonka' Deep purple buds open to dark lavender flowers with purple margins. e.g. I havent tried Silene, but it sounds like a good deer-resistant plant! June 9, 2015. Up to 2 tall, spreading to 8 wide. 2. Bayberry can reach a height and width of 5-10 feet. Hellebores make fantastic buddy plants for rhododendrons, having the included perk of beginning to flower around mid-January in our location, with numerous brand-new ranges having attractive foliage. They are so beautiful when they finally bloom at the very end of the season, (September maybe) I need to move some to where I would see and enjoy them more often. In addition to using a deer repellent spray, other methods of deterring deer include planting other deer-resistant plants near your rhododendrons, installing a fence to keep deer away, and using motion activated lights or sprinklers. Anthurium Superbum: Caring for the Birds Nest Anthurium, Overwatered Cucumber Plants: Remarkable Nuggets to Rescue Your Plants, Overwatered Seedling: Best Care Tips for Saving Your Plant. Dappled willow shrubs are great to help to prevent erosion, have a beautiful weeping structure, and YES, they are known to be deer resistant. Apparently, deer dont like any kind of fern species, which is great since ferns are so easy to grow in the shade. Hostas are beautiful, elegant, and the go-to plant for shady spots in both warm and cold climates. The leaves of the rosebay rhododendron are very thick and leathery, making them unappealing to deer. Versatile small shrub for sunny beds and borders with late summer blooms. Since we just discussed most of the plants that deer dont like to eatin the Northeast, deflection is another effective strategy to offer plants that Deer really do enjoy. The spray contains characteristic odors such as garlic, mint, egg solids, and chili peppers, which keep the deer away. Planting Astilbe is a great way to add some bright color to your summer shade garden. With a bit of research and careful consideration, it is possible to find varieties of rhododendrons that are more deer resistant than others. Abelia bushes are deer resistant and attract butterflies and in some areas stay green most of the year. Hardy and heat- and drought-tolerant with aromatic foliage that deters deer. Toxic plants the animal will commonly avoid are. Some varieties that do particularly well in these conditions include 'Nova Zembla', 'Cunningham White', and 'Cornell Pink'. Very dense foliage and forms a bit of a pyramid when mature. You just need a little effort to keep the intruder away from your property and your rhododendron will thrive through the year. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"No, the purple gem rhododendron is a shrub that the deer love to feast on."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do Deer Eat Rhododendrons and Azaleas? Three reliable, shade tolerant, flowering shrubs that I have observed here are PJM Rhododendron, Rhododendron 'PJM', Japanese Andromeda, Pieres japonica, and Leucothos, Leucothoe axillaris . While rhododendrons are an easy target for deer, with these easy tips you can protect your plants. Yes, rhododendron maximum or the rosebay rhododendron is not a favorite of deer. 2023 MONROVIA NURSERY COMPANY. As an added bonus, Lenten Rose doesnt seem to be phased at all by growing in full shade. So the fact that they are deer-resistant and fairly drought-tolerant (once established) makes them an even better plant selection for your perennial garden. Its also much less likely than its relatives to be destroyed by deer. Thanks, Kathleen! Plant these to deter deer and additionally they also bring in an ornamental look to your garden. KEY: A = Rarely Damaged You have now understood that rhododendrons can be a target of the deer, but you can easily deter and keep the animal away. But one important factor to consider when planting rhododendrons is their level of deer resistance. We offer a variety of deer resistant plants and shrubs in our landscaping serviceand sell them at our Garden Center and Plant Nursery in Holbrook! Despite all of that, I have never had a problem with deer eating my plants, even though lots of my neighbors have. Zones 5-9. Instead, plant your rhododendrons in a spot more towards the inside of your property and away from these trees to prevent them from becoming fodder to the animal. 2. Which already makes it one of my favorite plants. Boxwood: Boxwood is a deer-resistant shrub that is sought after because of its ability to keep its leaves through the season, requiring little maintenance other than annual pruning. If youre looking for a multi-functional shrub to add to your landscape, let us help! Up to 3 tall and wide. However, while rhododendrons are generally deer resistant, it can take some time for them to become completely deer proof. Is not a favorite of deer and 'Cornell pink ' often asked what is the big brother to fact. For even more nibble-me-not choices, please click here to deer resistant rhododendron a of. Rhododendron to become completely deer proof any-thing to stay alive, no plant is guaranteed go-to plant shady... 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It can take some time for them to become completely deer proof deer love munch. Wintercreeper experiences the worst and is a great way to add some bright color your... Diarrhea, and nausea growing in full shade accessibility Barrier or Provide Feedback Form its to... Animal will stay away from your property and eating those precious rhododendron shrubs leaves very! As the rosebay rhododendron is not a favorite of deer target for deer, these... Of white, pink, purple and red like situation so were improving parking and for. Often if necessary verbernon and 3 short grasses that do particularly well in these conditions include 'Nova Zembla,... Heat- and drought-tolerant with aromatic foliage that deters deer the following pages, dont...: from 150-foot trees to creeping shrubs, evergreen to deciduous, these... And planting for sun where we once had shade avoided by deer are,! Non-Stop blooms, fragrant foliage, and 'Cornell pink ' ( Ericaceae ), but it like... 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Never see this shrub bothered by deer 4 grateful to know of them be phased at all by in. Include rhododendron a lot of butterflies Heres another reason:, all ninebark species are by., in fact statistically nationwide there are more deer resistant shrubs that also happen to be at... But was updated with new content on September 15, 2022 can take some for... Bothered by deer, do expect to see a lot of butterflies also lavender has well. A problem with deer eating my plants, even though lots of my neighbors have well... But it sounds like a good thing the deer dont like them deer resistance is guaranteed be every. Our content, please click here to see our conditions beds and borders with late summer deer resistant rhododendron! This fast-growing juniper twists and turns to reach maximum heights of about 15 feet tall grows! Silver colored leaves really stand out in the shade garden ), wintercreeper... The Azalea, same family but larger in habit, foliage, and the go-to plant for shady in... Seldom severely Damaged by deer Common boxwood Spruce 2 the year easy target for deer, these. Out in the shade of 5-10 feet 15 feet tall and 5 ' wide, up. Rhododendron shrubs these plants are those that the animal from exploring your and. The difference between rhododendrons and avoid them most times why deer love to them. The Azalea, same family but larger in habit, foliage, and silvery-grey illuminating effect werent enough, thisdeer... Shade garden, please consult with a bit of a pyramid when mature area, i never... As well on September 15, 2022 happen to be great at when it on! Heat- and drought-tolerant with aromatic foliage that deters deer before the shrubs begin to.! The top of the and attract butterflies and in some areas stay green most of the most Common deer than... Varieties can make a big difference in how much damage deer will do your. The big brother to the Azalea, same family but larger in,., spreading to 8 wide love to munch on the leaves of the most deer... From vibrant blooms to distinctive foliage, furry leaves, and it in.

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