Deer are known to be opportunistic eaters and will consume a wide variety of plants, including flowers and foliage. However, they tend to have preferences for certain types of vegetation and may avoid others.
In the case of pink turtlehead (Chelone lyonii), there is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that deer may not be particularly fond of this plant. The pink turtlehead has a bitter taste and contains compounds that are unappealing to many animals, including deer. This may act as a deterrent to deer browsing on this particular plant.
Additionally, the pink turtlehead has some physical characteristics that may make it less attractive to deer. The plant grows to a height of 2-3 feet, which can make it less accessible to deer, especially if other food sources are available at ground level. The dense foliage and sturdy stems of the pink turtlehead may also provide some protection against deer browsing.
However, it is important to note that deer feeding habits can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, availability of other food sources, and population density. What may be true in one area may not hold true in another.
If you are concerned about deer damage to your pink turtlehead plants, there are a few strategies you can employ to help deter them. One option is to use fencing or other physical barriers to keep deer away from the plants. Another option is to use deer repellents, which can be sprayed on the plants to make them less attractive to deer. These repellents often contain substances such as garlic, rotten eggs, or predator urine, which can deter deer from feeding.
In my personal experience, I have grown pink turtlehead in my garden for several years and have not observed any significant damage from deer. However, it is worth noting that I live in an area with a relatively low deer population and ample food sources available.
While deer may eat a wide range of plants, there is some evidence to suggest that they may not have a strong preference for pink turtlehead. The bitter taste and unappealing compounds in the plant, as well as its physical characteristics, may act as deterrents to deer browsing. However, it is important to consider local factors and take appropriate measures to protect your plants if deer damage is a concern.