Will deer eat lavender?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

Deer and lavender… let me tell you, it’s been a battle in my garden. You see, deer love to munch on just about anything green and tasty, and lavender happens to fall into that category. But fear not, my fellow gardeners, because I’ve found a few tricks to keep those pesky deer away from my beloved lavender plants.

First of all, let me tell you why lavender is such a great addition to any garden. Not only does it add a beautiful touch of purple to your landscape, but it also has a lovely fragrance that can enhance any outdoor space. Plus, lavender has a multitude of uses, from culinary delights to homemade beauty products. It’s truly a versatile and delightful plant to have around.

Now, back to the deer. These creatures have quite the appetite, and unfortunately, lavender is not exempt from their dining preferences. I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastation they can cause, as they nibble away at my precious lavender plants. It’s a heartbreaking sight, let me tell you.

But fear not, my friends, because there are ways to keep those deer at bay. One of the most effective methods I’ve found is to plant lavender in with my vegetable and herb garden. You see, deer tend to avoid areas where there are strong scents, and the aroma of herbs and vegetables can help mask the scent of the lavender. Plus, having lavender mixed in with your other plants can create a beautiful and aromatic garden oasis.

If you don’t have a vegetable or herb garden, another option is to plant your lavender along walkways or driveways. Deer are creatures of habit and tend to follow established paths. By planting lavender in these areas, you can create a barrier that deters them from venturing further into your garden. Plus, the fragrance of the lavender can help repel mosquitoes and flies, making it a win-win situation.

Another option is to use deterrents, such as deer repellent sprays or motion-activated sprinklers. These can be effective in keeping deer away from your lavender plants, but they do require regular application or maintenance. It’s important to keep in mind that deer can become accustomed to certain deterrents over time, so it may be necessary to switch things up every now and then.

In my experience, a combination of these methods has been the most successful in keeping deer away from my lavender. However, it’s important to note that no method is foolproof, and there may still be the occasional nibble here and there. But with a little perseverance and some creative gardening techniques, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of lavender in your garden without sacrificing it all to those hungry deer.

So, my fellow gardeners, don’t let the threat of deer deter you from planting lavender. With a little planning and some strategic placement, you can create a garden oasis that not only delights the senses but also keeps those pesky deer at bay. Happy gardening!