Deer do like impatiens and consider them to be a tasty treat. Impatiens are known for their vibrant and colorful flowers, which can be quite appealing to deer. If you have impatiens plants in your garden or yard, there is a good chance that deer will be attracted to them.
Deer are herbivores and will eat a wide range of plants to satisfy their dietary needs. They are known to have a preference for tender and succulent vegetation, which includes impatiens. The soft and fleshy leaves of impatiens make them a tempting target for hungry deer.
In areas where deer populations are high, it is crucial to take steps to protect your impatiens from being devoured. There are several methods you can employ to keep deer away from your plants.
One option is to use physical barriers such as fences or netting to create a barrier between the deer and your impatiens. Fences should be at least 8 feet tall to be effective, as deer are skilled jumpers. Netting can be draped over the plants to prevent deer from accessing them.
Another approach is to use repellents to deter deer from coming near your impatiens. There are various commercial deer repellents available that can be sprayed directly onto the plants. These repellents usually have a strong odor or taste that deer find unpleasant, thus deterring them from feeding on the impatiens. It is important to reapply these repellents regularly, especially after rain.
Some gardeners have had success with homemade deer repellents as well. These can be made using ingredients such as hot pepper spray, garlic, or soap. The strong scents and tastes of these homemade repellents can help keep deer away from your impatiens.
Planting deer-resistant plants alongside or near your impatiens can also be effective in deterring deer. Some plants that are known to be less appealing to deer include lavender, salvia, yarrow, and daffodils. By creating a barrier of unpalatable plants, you can reduce the likelihood of deer munching on your impatiens.
In my personal experience, I have encountered issues with deer eating my impatiens. Living in a rural area with a high deer population, I found that physical barriers were the most effective method of protection. I installed a tall fence around my impatiens garden, and this significantly reduced the damage caused by deer. Additionally, I have used commercial deer repellents with success, particularly when applied consistently.
Deer do like impatiens and will readily consume them if given the opportunity. If you live in an area where deer are common, it is important to take precautions to protect your impatiens. This can be done through the use of physical barriers, repellents, or planting deer-resistant plants. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy the beauty of your impatiens without worrying about them becoming a deer’s next meal.