Asters, with their vibrant blooms, are a favorite in many gardens, offering a splash of color in the fall when other flowers have faded. However, for gardeners in areas frequented by deer, a key consideration is whether these beautiful plants will attract unwanted four-legged visitors. Understanding the relationship between deer and asters can help gardeners make informed decisions about planting and protecting these flowers.
Deer Behavior
Deer are known for their adaptable feeding habits, which can cause challenges for gardeners. They are primarily browsers, feeding on a variety of vegetation, including leaves, shoots, fruits, and flowers. The diet of deer varies depending on their habitat, the season, and the availability of food. During spring and summer, their diet consists mainly of tender shoots and leaves, while in fall and winter, they shift to more woody plant material and evergreens as other food sources become scarce.
Asters and Their Appeal to Deer
Asters are perennials known for their daisy-like flowers and can be an attractive food source for deer, especially when other options are limited. These plants are not only visually appealing but also can provide a nutritional snack for deer due to their foliage and flowers. However, the extent to which asters appeal to deer can vary based on several factors, including the specific type of aster, the availability of other food sources, and the local deer population’s eating habits.
Do Deer Eat Asters?
While deer are known to browse on a wide range of plants, their interest in asters can depend on various factors. Anecdotal evidence and gardening experiences suggest that deer may eat asters, particularly when their preferred food sources are scarce. The attractiveness of asters to deer also depends on the specific variety of the plant and the overall availability of other appealing vegetation in the area. In regions with high deer populations and limited food choices, asters are more likely to be targeted by deer.
Protecting Asters from Deer
Gardeners who cherish their asters can employ several strategies to protect these plants from deer:
- Physical Barriers: Fencing is one of the most effective ways to keep deer away from asters. A fence should be at least 8 feet tall to prevent deer from jumping over it.
- Deer Repellents: There are various commercial deer repellents available, which can be sprayed on and around asters. These repellents often use a scent or taste that is unpleasant to deer. It’s important to follow the application instructions and reapply as necessary, especially after rain.
- Home Remedies: Some gardeners use home remedies, such as hanging soap bars or human hair near plants, to deter deer. The effectiveness of these methods can vary.
- Regular Maintenance: Keeping the garden clean and reducing hiding spots can make the area less attractive to deer. Regularly trimming and maintaining plants can help in this regard.
Deer-Resistant Companion Plants for Asters
Incorporating deer-resistant plants into your garden can help protect asters. Plants that are typically less appealing to deer, due to their strong scents or textures, can act as natural deterrents. Some of these include lavender, marigolds, and garlic. Planting these around your asters can create a protective barrier, reducing the likelihood of deer feasting on your asters.
Deer-Resistant Companion Plants for Asters
Planting deer-resistant companions alongside asters can significantly reduce the likelihood of deer damage. These plants are generally less palatable to deer due to their strong scents, flavors, or textures. Consider incorporating the following into your garden:
- Lavender: With its potent fragrance, lavender is a known deer deterrent. Its beautiful purple blooms also complement the aesthetics of asters.
- Marigolds: The strong scent of marigolds can mask the appealing aroma of asters, making them less detectable to deer.
- Garlic and Onions: The pungent smell of garlic and onions is unappealing to deer and can serve as a natural repellent when planted near asters.
- Salvia: Known for its deer resistance, salvia can provide a protective perimeter around more vulnerable plants like asters.
- Yarrow: Yarrow’s bitter taste and aromatic foliage make it a good companion for deterring deer from asters.
By strategically placing these plants around your asters, you can create a natural barrier that reduces the risk of deer browsing.
Conclusion
The question of whether deer eat asters depends on various factors, including local deer populations and the availability of other food sources. While asters can be at risk of deer damage, employing effective strategies such as fencing, repellents, and the use of deer-resistant companion plants can greatly reduce this risk. By understanding the behavior of deer and implementing these protective measures, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of asters without undue concern for their safety.
Incorporating a mix of asters and deer-resistant plants not only enhances the visual appeal of your garden but also contributes to a balanced ecosystem where both flora and fauna can coexist. With careful planning and consideration, asters can remain a vibrant and thriving part of your garden, even in areas frequented by deer.
