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Hydrangeas and deer #872941

Asked June 13, 2024, 12:01 PM EDT

Hello, I’ve planted a topiary hydrangea tree 4ft tall and bushes 2ft tall which deer are eating the flower buds. Plantsskydd repellent isn’t detering them. What are your thoughts on planting lavender plants around the tree and bushes? Other suggestions?

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello

Some unpalatable plants may help them move on. There are some suggestions here-

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/oh_deer_oh_dear

But, results on this technique are mixed, and it is not a 100% effective solution.

Because they are creatures of habit, they may be browsing your new plants where they used to find food.  Completely incasing the new plants for this season in cages may make them move on and browse elsewhere: then you could remove the protective cages next year.

Deer repellents typically work but, must be re-applied after each rain, Exclusion with fencing is the only sure way to prevent damage. I am including some bulletins for you with some ideas.( one mentions hunting but we are not advocating that; the fencing options is why I included it here)

https://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/wildlife/prevention_and_control/organic-deer-control.html

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/discouraging_deer_year_round_in_your_yard_facts_versus_fantasies

https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart_gardening_to_deter_deer
https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/uploads/files/deer_resistant_plants.pdf

Thank you for your question! Replied June 13, 2024, 12:36 PM EDT
Thank you. 

On Thu, Jun 13, 2024 at 12:36 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 14, 2024, 10:36 AM EDT

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