Pansies Deer Resistant: Keeping Your Garden Beautiful and Safe

Oleh Cheryl Price June 09, 2023 Post a Comment

As a gardener, one of the biggest challenges you face is keeping your plants safe from wildlife. One of the most common problems that gardeners face is deer damage. If you've ever had your prized pansies destroyed by a hungry deer, you know how frustrating it can be. But fear not! There are ways to keep your pansies safe from these gentle giants.

Understanding the Issue

Deer are beautiful creatures that can cause significant damage to a garden in no time at all. They love to eat flowers, vegetables, and anything else they can get their hooves on. When it comes to pansies, deer are particularly fond of them because they're delicious and easy to reach.

The problem with deer is that they tend to visit gardens at night, when we can't see them. This makes it difficult to keep them out of our gardens. Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to make your pansies less attractive to deer.

Planting Pansies Deer Resistant

One of the easiest ways to keep deer away from your pansies is to plant varieties that are deer-resistant. Luckily, there are many different types of pansies that fit this description. Some of the most popular include:

Delta Premium Pure White - This variety features pure white petals with a bright yellow center. It's known for its compact habit and excellent heat tolerance.
Majestic Giant II Mix - This mix includes a range of colors, including purple, yellow, and white. The flowers are large, and the plants are vigorous.
Matrix® Morpheus - This variety has dark purple petals with a yellow center. It's compact and blooms early, making it perfect for spring planting.

By planting pansies that are less attractive to deer, you'll be able to enjoy their beauty without worrying about damage.

Companion Planting

Companion planting is a technique that involves planting different types of plants together to deter pests. When it comes to deer, there are several plants that can be planted alongside pansies to keep them away. Some of the best options include:

Lavender - Deer don't like the smell of lavender, making it an excellent companion plant for pansies.
Rosemary - This fragrant herb is another great option for keeping deer away.
Mint - Mint is known for its strong scent, which deer find unappealing.

By planting these companion plants alongside your pansies, you'll create an environment that's less attractive to deer.

Fencing

If all else fails, fencing is always an option. A tall fence around your garden will keep deer out, but it can be expensive and time-consuming to install. Some people opt for a lower fence with a top that angles outward, making it difficult for deer to jump over.

Another option is to use a deer repellent spray on your plants. These sprays are made from natural ingredients and work by creating a bitter taste on the leaves of your plants. While they may not be as effective as fencing or companion planting, they can still be useful in deterring deer.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep your pansies safe from deer:

Plant pansies in containers - This makes it easier to move them indoors or to a more secure location if necessary.
Plant pansies in a raised bed - This will make it more difficult for deer to reach them.
Use motion-activated sprinklers - These sprinklers will scare off deer when they come near.
Avoid using fertilizers that contain blood meal - Deer are attracted to the scent of blood meal, so it's best to avoid using it in your garden.
Plant pansies in a sunny location - Pansies prefer full sun, which can also make them less attractive to deer.

In Summary

Deer damage can be frustrating for gardeners, but there are ways to keep your pansies safe. By planting varieties that are less attractive to deer, companion planting, or using fencing or repellent, you can enjoy the beauty of pansies without worrying about damage.

FAQs

Q1. How do I know if my pansies are being eaten by deer?

A1. Look for signs of damage on your pansies, such as missing flowers or partially eaten leaves. You may also see hoof prints in your garden.

Q2. Can I use commercial deer repellents on my pansies?

A2. Yes, there are many different types of commercial deer repellents that can be used on pansies. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Q3. Do all types of pansies work well as deer-resistant plants?

A3. No, not all pansies are resistant to deer. Look for varieties that are specifically labeled as "deer-resistant."

Q4. Will companion planting really keep deer away from my pansies?

A4. While companion planting can be effective in deterring deer, it's not foolproof. It's best to use a combination of methods to keep your pansies safe.