Do deer eat coleus? This is a question that many gardeners have. Coleus is a popular ornamental plant that is often grown in gardens and flower beds. Deer are known to be herbivores, so it makes sense that they would eat plants like coleus. But is this actually the case? Let’s find out…
Do Deer Eat Coleus?
Coleus plants are not a preferred food choice for deer, but they will eat them if they are hungry and there is nothing else to eat. Deer tend to prefer plants that are high in sugar or starch, such as clover, grasses, and fruits.
It’s unlikely for a deer to come to your garden just to eat your coleus plants. However, if you have a lot of deer in your area, they may munch on your coleus plants if they are hungry enough.
If you have a coleus plant in your garden and you are concerned about deer eating it, you can take some steps to protect it. We will discuss some of these steps in this blog post.
How to Protect Coleus from Deer?
To really deter deer from eating your coleus plants, you will need to take some proactive steps:
1. Fencing
The first step you can take to protect your coleus plants from deer is to put up a fence around your garden. This will keep deer out of your garden and away from your plants.
There are many different types of fences that you can use, so you will need to choose the one that is right for you and your garden. A wire fence is a good option, as it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. I like this netting from Amazon.
You can also use a plastic or mesh fence. These types of fences are not as strong as wire fences, but they will still keep deer out of your garden. There are also deer-resistant plants that you can grow around the perimeter of your garden to help keep deer away.
2. Hanging Baskets
You could also try hanging baskets to keep deer away from your coleus plants. This is a good option if you have a small garden or if you don’t want to put up a fence.
To hang a basket, you will need to purchase a hanging basket and some wire. You will also need to find a place to hang the basket. A tree branch or a fence post will work well.
Now, deer won’t be able to reach your coleus plants if they are in a hanging basket. This is a good way to protect your plants from deer, while still being able to enjoy them in your garden.
3. Deer Repellents
Another option you have is to use deer repellents. There are many different types of deer repellents on the market, so you will need to choose one that is right for you. Some deer repellents are made with natural ingredients, while others are made with chemicals.
You can also make your own deer repellent at home. There are many recipes available online. You will need to reapply the repellent regularly, as it will wear off over time.
4. Sprinklers
Another option you have is to use sprinklers. Deer don’t like to get wet, so they will stay away from your garden if they can see water raining down in the area.
You can use a standard sprinkler system or you can install a motion-activated sprinkler. These types of sprinklers will turn on when they detect movement, so they are a good way to keep deer away from your garden.
Can Coleus Be Used as Deer-Resistant Fencing?
No, coleus plants cannot be used as deer-resistant fencing for two reasons.
First, coleus plants are not very dense, so deer can easily push through them. Deers are strong animals and they can easily damage or destroy a coleus plant.
Second, coleus plants could be eaten by deer if the animal is hungry. This is the opposite of what you want in a deer-resistant fence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you should not rely on coleus plants to keep deer away from your garden. While they may deter some deer, they are not a reliable form of protection. If you are concerned about deer eating your coleus plants, you should take some steps to protect them.
Fencing, deer repellents, hanging baskets, and sprinklers are all good options. You will need to choose the one that is right for you and your garden. With a little effort, you can keep deer away from your coleus plants and enjoy them in your garden.
Do you have a problem with deer eating your coleus plants? What steps have you taken to protect them? Let us know in the comments below.
Tim is an avid gardener from the UK. He was the founder of PlantCarer.com from 2021 to Sep 2023. He sold PlantCarer.com to Aaron. He has since started his own business called Seed To Supper, which provides new gardeners all the materials you need in a box (pots, seeds, compost and instructions) to grow your own delicious and nutritious vegetables and herbs from start to finish – no garden required.
