While deer are lovely animals to enjoy from a distance, they can become a hassle when they start visiting your garden. After all, no one likes to see all of their efforts destroyed. Interestingly, even animals have their preferences and will eat some plant species over others (if they have the option to choose and are not too hungry).
Pansies are easy-to-grow flowering plants that will make any garden more lively. They adapt to different locations and weather conditions, making them suitable for beginner gardeners. Additionally, you can find them in several different vibrant colors.
Unfortunately, not everything can be that good. If you ever wondered: “Do deer eat pansies?” you have landed in the right place.
Jump to the following sections to find out! Besides getting an answer to the question, you’ll also learn about the ideal steps you should take to prevent deer from visiting your garden.
Should You Be Worried About Deer If you have Pansies?
Let’s get things straight: deer love eating pansies. These flowering plants are soft, have dense foliage, and their blooms are rich in nutrients, which is all that a deer looks for in a meal.
Some people labeled these plants “deer candy” (and for good reasons). Deer will look for pansies and prefer going into gardens that offer them such a delicacy.
Unfortunately, if you live near a forest and decide to plant pansies, you should expect visits. Indeed, these flowers’ colors will attract these destructive mammals.
Don’t forget that the plants are more vulnerable during the spring when the buds are young and tender, perfect for deer to munch.
But don’t worry: even if deer love pansies, you can take a couple of measures to make it more difficult for these mammals to get to your property. Read on to learn our favorite tips for keeping deer from visiting your beloved yard.
How Can You Protect Your Pansies From Deer?
There are several measures you can take to protect your pansies from attacks from deer. One of the best ways is to install a tall fence (remember: deer can jump high!). You might have to be creative and protect your flowers around a chicken fence to make it even more challenging for deer to get to the plants.
Other measures include getting ultrasound devices or using predator urine to keep deer away. If you decide to use commercial repellents, don’t forget to replace them often: their efficacy is limited.
Alternatively, if you prefer more “organic” solutions, consider spraying hot pepper wax around your pansies. Deer (like other animals) don’t usually like strong smells and flavors. But beware: you will have to reapply the pepper frequently to keep the scent in the air.
Keep in mind that organic solutions are usually less effective at keeping deer at bay for the long term. Additionally, they take more time to give results. If you are looking for a quick solution, you might have to take other measures instead.
Do Deer-Resistant Plants Work?
Another method to prevent deer from visiting your garden is to avoid planting species they like to feed on. While it is hard to label a plant as “deer-resistant” (after all, hungry animals won’t think twice about eating anything that crosses its path), deer have preferences.
Planting certain species might reduce the likelihood of getting visits from deer in your garden.
For instance, herbs with intense smells like lavender or rhubarb may keep deer away from your garden. Alternatively, you can try planting species with prickles, thorns, or needles, especially around your borders. Many deer won’t attempt getting into your property if you make it harder for them to get in.
Avoid planting hostas, English Ivy, and daylilies with your pansies: these plants attract deer too and make your yard very attractive to these mammals.
While we are not saying you should ditch your dreams of having pansies in your garden, if you tried all the methods and none work, you might have to plant alternatives to these perennials to avoid severe issues in your garden.
Some species that you should consider are butterfly bush, coneflowers, and monkshood. Don’t forget to select plants that grow well in your hardiness zone to avoid other issues.
Do deer eat pansies: Conclusion
Yes, deer eat pansies but there are some plants that are deer resistant. Keep in mind that one measure might not work on its own but, combined with others, might help you keep deer away: don’t lose patience!
Related Article: Do Deer Eat Hosta Plants?