Do Deer Eat Black-eyed Susans? Deer Resistant Perennials

Do you own black-eyed Susans? Do you love them dearly, but fear that deer will eat them? You’re not alone. This is a common concern among gardeners, as deer will often eat just about anything.

In this guide, we’ll discuss whether or not deer eat black-eyed Susans. We’ll also provide some tips on how to keep deer away from your black-eyed Susans (and other plants in your garden). Let’s take a look…

Do Deer Eat Black-eyed Susans?

No, deer do not like to eat black-eyed Susans. In fact, they avoid them whenever possible. This is because the leaves and stems of black-eyed Susans are hairy and prickly. Deer prefer to eat plants that are soft and leafy, without any hair or prickles.

This means black-eyed Susans are a great choice for those who want to deter deer from their gardens. They’re beautiful flowers that add color and life to any garden.

While deer won’t munch on your black-eyed Susans, they may still trample on them or rub their antlers against them. This is why stopping the deer from entering your garden is the best course of action.

How to Protect Black-eyed Susans from Deer?

It’s important to protect ALL of your plants from deer, not just the black-eyed Susans. Here’s how:

1. Remove sources of food

Deer walk around the nooks and crannies of your property in search of food. If you remove potential sources of food, such as fallen fruit or leftover garden debris, deer will be less likely to visit your property.

If you only have deer-resistance plants in your garden, they’ll smell nothing of interest and will eventually give up and move on. Your neighbor’s over-ripe apples may attract deer to your property, so be sure to clean up any fallen fruit in your yard.

2. Fencing

Fencing is the most effective way to keep deer out of your garden. A high fence (at least eight feet tall) will deter most deer from trying to jump over it. You can also try an electric fence, which will give the deer a mild shock if they try to cross it.

Deer are creatures of habit and will often return to the same spot day after day. If they see that there’s a fence blocking their way, they’ll eventually give up and move on.

You can also try using netting or chicken wire around your plants. This will create a physical barrier that deer cannot cross. I recommend using this netting from Amazon if you want a durable option that can be moved around as needed.

3. Deer Repellents

Deer repellents make the area around your plants unappealing to deer. There are many different types of deer repellents on the market, so be sure to do your research and find one that’s right for you.

I recommend using a natural deer repellent, such as this Bobbex repellent. This repellent is made with all-natural ingredients and is safe to use in your garden. You can also make your own deer repellent using kitchen ingredients like garlic, chili peppers, and soap.

Deer repellents should be applied every few weeks, or after it rains. You may need to experiment with different products and application methods to find what works best in your area.

4. Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets are a great way to protect your plants from deer. Deer are less likely to reach into hanging baskets, so they’re a good option if you have plants that deer like to eat. Plus, hanging baskets add a touch of elegance to your garden.

You can find hanging baskets at most garden stores, or you can make your own using a wire basket and some potting soil. Be sure to water the plants regularly, as they will dry out quickly in the sun.

5. Sonic Sound Devices

Sonic sound devices emit a high-pitched noise that deer can hear, but humans cannot. These devices are designed to scare all kinds of animals away, including deer.

However, it’s important to be mindful of your neighbors when using these devices. Be sure to place the device away from any homes, as the constant noise can be very annoying to people.

Sonic sound devices are a great option for those who want to deter deer without using chemicals or fences. Just be sure to use them sparingly, as the constant noise can be disruptive to both you and your neighbors.

Can Black-eyed Susans Be Used as Deer-Resistant Fencing?

Yes, black-eyed Susans can be used as deer-resistant fencing. This is because the plant emits a strong odor that deer do not like. When used as a fence, black-eyed Susans will deter deer from entering your garden.

To use black-eyed Susans as fencing, simply plant them along the perimeter of your garden. Be sure to space the plants evenly so that they form a dense barrier. You can also add other deer-resistant plants, such as lavender or marigolds, to further deter deer.

Plus, the bright yellow flowers will add a pop of color to your fence line. Black-eyed Susans are a great option for those who want a natural way to deter deer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, black-eyed Susans are not on the menu for deer. While they will only eat the leaves when they’re starving, they generally avoid the plant. Deer dislike the smell of this plant since it is so strong.

There are many ways to deter deer from eating your plants. Some options include fencing, deer repellents, hanging baskets, and sonic sound devices.

You’ll need to experiment with different methods to find what works best in your area. But with a little trial and error, you can keep the deer out of your garden for good.

Do you have any tips for deterring deer? Share them in the comments below!

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