Deer resistant plants or plants less susceptible to damage by deer.

All grasses & ferns are usually resistant to deer.

Perennials.

Aconitum, Ajuga, Alchemilla, Armeria, Aubretia, Crocosmia, Digitalis, Echinops, Erigeron, Eryngium, Euphorbia, Helichrysum, Hellebores, Kniphofia, Nepeta, Paeonia, Primula, Sisyrinchium, Solidago, Verbascum.

Shrubs.

Berberis, Buddleja davidii, Ceratostigma, Chaenomeles, Choisya, Cistus, Cotoneaster, Cytisus, Daphne, Forsythia, Hydrangea, Hypericum, Lavender, Mahonia, Perovskia atriplicifolia, Pieris, Potentilla fruticosa, Rosemary, Sarcococca, Skimmia, Syringa.

Climbers.

Clematis, Lonicera, Jasminum nudiflorum & officinale, Wisteria.

Bulbs.

Galanthus (Snowdrops), Leucojum, Narcissus (Daffodils) & Nerines.

Herbs & fruit.

Mint, Thyme, Oregano, Sage & Rhubarb.

The extent to which plants are damaged by deer & the extent of the damage depends on:-

• New planting – Deer are very inquisitive & will check out newly planted plants. Try to protect these plants with netting or fence them off if possible.

• The proximity of the plant to the house – deer don’t like coming near any human activity.

• The choice of material available – the same plant might be eaten in one garden but undamaged in another nearby.

• Time of year – If food is in short supply deer will try any plant.

• Damage might be more prevalent in some years depending on the weather – more damage in more severe winters.

Organic tree guards can now be bought to protect the bark on young or newly planted trees.

Cath Sanderson