what to plant for deer in summer

3 min read 24-12-2024

Deer are beautiful creatures, but they can wreak havoc on a garden. If you're looking to provide a summer feast for deer while protecting your other plants, choosing the right plants is key. This guide will help you select summer plantings that deer find irresistible, creating a thriving deer garden while minimizing damage to your other landscaping.

Understanding Deer Preferences

Before diving into specific plants, understanding what deer find appealing is crucial. Deer are drawn to tender, young growth and plants with high protein and moisture content. They also prefer certain tastes and textures over others. Knowing this helps you make informed choices.

Factors Influencing Deer Browsing

Several factors influence a deer's foraging habits:

Availability of Food: If natural food sources are scarce, deer are more likely to raid gardens.
Plant Preferences: Certain plants are simply more appealing to deer than others.
Scent: Deer have an acute sense of smell. Some plants have scents that deter them.
Taste: Some plants have a bitter or unpleasant taste that deer avoid.
Plant Maturity: Young, succulent growth is much more attractive than mature, woody plants.

Best Summer Plants to Attract Deer

Now, let's look at specific plants that flourish in summer and are deer favorites. Remember to plant these away from your prized flowers and vegetables to avoid competition.

High-Protein Choices

Beans: Various bean varieties, including bush beans, lima beans, and soybeans, are popular deer snacks. Plant these in rows or in a dedicated area for them.
Clover: White clover is a perennial favorite and a great addition to your garden. This versatile plant improves soil quality as well.
Alfalfa: Another nitrogen-fixing plant, alfalfa is high in protein and highly palatable to deer.

Moisture-Rich Options

Summer Squash: Zucchini and yellow squash are easy to grow and provide ample moisture for deer.
Cucumbers: These juicy fruits offer both hydration and nutrients for hungry deer.
Watermelon: While a larger plant, the luscious fruit and vines are irresistible to deer.

Other Deer-Attracting Plants for Summer

Beyond protein and moisture, consider these:

Sunflowers: These tall beauties offer seeds and foliage deer enjoy. Consider planting a dedicated sunflower patch.
Corn: A classic deer favorite. However, ensure you plant enough for both you and the deer!
Oak Trees (Acorns): While not a summer planting, oak trees will eventually provide a fall and winter food source for deer. This makes it a valuable long-term investment.

Protecting Your Other Plants

While providing for the deer, you still need to protect your other garden areas. Here are some additional tips:

Fencing: Deer fencing is the most effective method. Ensure it's tall enough (at least 8 feet) and buried deeply to prevent deer from digging under.
Repellents: Commercial deer repellents can be effective, but they often need to be reapplied regularly. Some natural repellents include human hair, garlic, and onions.
Strategic Planting: Planting deer-resistant plants around your valuable garden areas can create a natural barrier.

Creating a Deer-Friendly Habitat

By planting these summer choices, you're not only providing food for deer but also contributing to a healthy ecosystem. Remember to consider the size and needs of your local deer population when planning your plantings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will planting these attract too many deer?

A: The number of deer attracted depends on the size of your planting and the local deer population density. A small patch might not significantly impact deer behavior, but a large area will naturally attract more deer.

Q: How often should I replant?

A: Replanting depends on the plant's growth cycle. Beans, squash, and cucumbers will likely need replanting throughout the summer. Clovers and alfalfa are perennials and should be more long-lasting.

Q: What should I do if my deer population is exceptionally high?

A: If deer overgrazing is a major concern, you may need to implement more significant deterrents, such as more robust fencing or contacting local wildlife management officials for guidance.

By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving summer garden that both attracts deer and protects your other plants. Remember, coexisting with wildlife requires careful planning and understanding. Happy gardening!