The purple aster, known for its vibrant flowers and delicate appearance, is a favorite food source for several animals. Among them, rabbits are particularly fond of this plant and can cause significant damage to it throughout the year. While deer may not prefer the taste or texture of asters, they may resort to feeding on the flowers when other food sources become scarce, typically in late summer and fall.
Rabbits, with their insatiable appetites, find asters irresistible. They seem to be drawn to the plant’s tender leaves and flowers, making it a prime target for their feeding habits. The rabbits’ constant grazing can lead to the destruction of the plant, leaving behind chewed stems and stripped foliage.
I have personally witnessed the havoc rabbits can wreak on a patch of purple asters in my garden. Despite my efforts to protect the plants, the rabbits always found a way to access them, making a feast out of the beautiful flowers. It was disheartening to see the damage they caused, as the once lush and colorful asters became bare and depleted.
Unlike rabbits, deer generally do not prefer asters as a food source due to their taste and texture. However, when other food becomes scarce, deer may resort to feeding on the flowers of the purple aster. This typically occurs in late summer and fall when the plant is in bloom and other vegetation may be diminishing. The deer’s browsing can result in the loss of flowers and potentially impact the overall health and vigor of the plant.
In areas with high deer populations, the feeding on asters by these majestic animals can be a cause for concern. It is important to note that while deer may occasionally feed on the flowers, they are not as destructive as rabbits, whose constant grazing can be detrimental to the plant’s survival.
To protect purple asters from rabbit damage, various measures can be taken. One effective method is to install fencing around the plants or the entire garden to create a barrier that rabbits cannot penetrate. This can be done using chicken wire or hardware cloth with small enough openings to prevent rabbits from squeezing through.
Another option is to use deterrents, such as sprays or granules that have a strong odor or taste that rabbits find unpleasant. These repellents can be applied directly to the plants or placed around the garden perimeter to discourage rabbits from approaching.
In areas where deer predation is a concern, similar measures can be taken. Fencing can be installed at a height sufficient to deter deer from jumping over, typically around 8 feet. Additionally, there are commercial deer repellents available that can be sprayed on the plants to make them less appealing to deer.
While rabbits have a strong affinity for purple asters and can cause significant damage to the plant, deer may also occasionally feed on the flowers. Taking proactive measures such as installing fencing or using repellents can help protect the asters from these animals and preserve their beauty in the garden.