what to plant for deer bedding

2 min read 23-12-2024

Deer bedding areas are crucial for their survival and well-being. Providing suitable bedding ensures deer have safe, comfortable places to rest and raise their young. Choosing the right plants is key to creating an attractive and effective deer bedding area. This guide will explore the best plants to plant for deer bedding, considering their preferences and the needs of a healthy deer population.

Understanding Deer Bedding Preferences

Deer are selective about where they rest. They prioritize locations offering:

Concealment: Thick cover from predators is paramount.
Comfort: Soft ground cover and protection from the elements.
Accessibility: Easy access to food and water sources nearby.

These factors influence their plant choices for bedding. They generally prefer areas with dense, low-growing vegetation that provides both shelter and concealment.

Ideal Plant Characteristics for Deer Bedding

The best plants for deer bedding share several traits:

Dense foliage: Creates thick cover and visual barriers.
Thorny or prickly growth: Deters predators and provides extra protection.
Evergreen nature (where applicable): Offers year-round cover and protection.
Native species: Are better adapted to the local climate and attract more local wildlife.

Top Plant Choices for Deer Bedding

Here are some excellent plant choices that meet deer's bedding needs:

Trees and Shrubs

Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana): Its dense foliage offers superb concealment. It's a common choice for deer bedding and thrives in various conditions.
Whitetail Oak (Quercus alba): This deciduous tree provides excellent shade and acorns for food, making it a highly attractive choice. The leaf litter also creates a comfortable bedding surface.
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.): The thorny branches create an impenetrable barrier, protecting deer from predators.
Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia): This fast-growing tree creates dense thickets perfect for hiding.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.): Offers attractive flowers and berries, as well as providing shelter.

Ground Covers and Grasses

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum): This tall grass offers excellent cover, especially in winter. It provides both shelter and seed for food.
Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium): Another native grass forming dense clumps ideal for concealment.
Broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus): Though less visually appealing, it provides valuable cover, especially in drier areas.
Lespedeza (Lespedeza spp.): This legume creates a mat of vegetation ideal for cover and provides nutritious forage for deer.

Creating a Successful Deer Bedding Area

Planting for deer bedding isn't just about selecting the right plants. Careful planning and execution are essential:

Site selection: Choose a location providing access to food and water and offering natural concealment.
Soil preparation: Prepare the soil properly to ensure optimal plant growth.
Plant spacing: Plant densely to maximize cover, yet allow for growth.
Maintenance: Monitor plant growth, and perform maintenance where necessary. Remove competing weeds, ensuring plants grow strong.
Water sources: Ensure a reliable water source is available nearby.

Additional Considerations

Local regulations: Check local regulations before planting on your property.
Habitat diversity: Plant a variety of species to create a diverse and thriving habitat. Deer prefer diversity, using different areas for different needs.
Long-term planning: Consider the mature size of plants and plan accordingly. Avoid overcrowding.

By carefully selecting and planting the appropriate species, you can effectively create deer bedding areas that provide these animals with the necessary shelter, comfort, and safety they need to thrive. Remember, providing suitable bedding is a crucial component of responsible wildlife management.