Deer Resistant Evergreen Trees - Ask Extension
Hello,
What up-to-date information does MSU Extension have on the types of deer resistant evergreen trees?
Thank you.
Knowledgebase
Deer Resistant Evergreen Trees #875511
Asked July 01, 2024, 1:57 PM EDT
Hello,
What up-to-date information does MSU Extension have on the types of deer resistant evergreen trees?
Thank you.
Saginaw County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Joanne,
Our 2008 publication is the most up to date information on deer resistant plants as deer habits have not changed since then.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/uploads/files/deer_resistant_plants.pdf
In general, the only deer resistant conifer (evergreen) is eastern red cedar, or juniper.
https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_juvi.pdf
The spiny nature of its leaves makes it unpalatable to deer, and people walking under it with bare feet.
Colorado blue spruce is a close second to juniper, but colorado blue spruce has issues with needlecast in our humid environment.
Norway and white spruce, as well as red and white pine are rarely bothered by deer as they are low nutrient foods. Those growing in my yard, where deer come through daily, have never been nipped.
Northern white cedar, or arborvitae, are loved by deer - and will be eaten if planted. So, that is the one that deer will eat for sure!
Is there a particular conifer, or evergreen you'd like to plant?
Thank you,
-Julie
Our 2008 publication is the most up to date information on deer resistant plants as deer habits have not changed since then.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/uploads/files/deer_resistant_plants.pdf
In general, the only deer resistant conifer (evergreen) is eastern red cedar, or juniper.
https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_juvi.pdf
The spiny nature of its leaves makes it unpalatable to deer, and people walking under it with bare feet.
Colorado blue spruce is a close second to juniper, but colorado blue spruce has issues with needlecast in our humid environment.
Norway and white spruce, as well as red and white pine are rarely bothered by deer as they are low nutrient foods. Those growing in my yard, where deer come through daily, have never been nipped.
Northern white cedar, or arborvitae, are loved by deer - and will be eaten if planted. So, that is the one that deer will eat for sure!
Is there a particular conifer, or evergreen you'd like to plant?
Thank you,
-Julie
