Are you on the hunt for some fantastic ground cover options? Whether you need deer-resistant ground covers, shade-loving wonders, perennial beauties, vibrant flowering plants, low-growing gems, or even options for those tricky slopes, we’ve got you covered!
Get ready to transform your outdoor space into a breathtaking haven with our handpicked selection of ground covers. Let’s dive in and explore!
You're reading: 18 of the Best Deer-Resistant Ground Covers for a Beautiful and Secure Garden
What Ground Cover Do Deer Eat?
When it comes to ground covers, have you ever wondered if deer have a taste for them? Well, the answer is yes. Deer can indeed munch on ground cover; they have a reputation for nibbling on plants, and their taste for ground cover can vary.
But fear not, because we’ve got some fantastic options that are resistant to their nibbling tendencies. You can still enjoy a lush and vibrant garden, even in shady areas, by choosing a deer-resistant ground cover.
These amazing varieties will add beauty and peace of mind to your outdoor space, allowing you to relax and enjoy nature without worrying about those mischievous deer.
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Deer-Resistant Ground Covers: Types of Plants Deer Won’t Eat
You’ll be delighted to know that there are deer-resistant ground covers available. Yes! When it comes to deer-resistant ground covers for shade, there are several fantastic options that deer tend to avoid.
These ground covers not only thrive in shady areas but also have the added benefit of being unappetizing to deer. One great choice is Ajuga, which forms dense mats of colorful foliage that deer tend to avoid. Another excellent option is Lamium, which features variegated leaves and delicate flowers that deer typically leave untouched.
Lastly, Bergenia, with its large leathery leaves and vibrant blooms, is a stunning ground cover that deer typically ignore. By selecting these deer-resistant ground covers, you can create a lush and beautiful shaded area in your garden while keeping pesky deer at bay.
Perennial Deer-resistant Ground Cover for Shade and Sun
Lamium (Lamium maculatum):
Lamium, also known as deadnettle, is a versatile ground cover that thrives in shady areas. Lamium produces clusters of delicate, tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white. While its vibrant blooms attract pollinators, Lamium’s deer-resistant nature ensures that your garden remains untouched by grazing deer.
Ajuga (Ajuga reptans):
Ajuga, commonly referred to as bugleweed, offers both visual appeal and deer resistance. This ground cover forms dense mats of foliage, ranging in color from deep green to bronze or purple, depending on the variety. Ajuga produces small, spike-like flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white, creating a striking contrast against its foliage.
Bergenia (Bergenia spp.):
Bergenia, also known as Elephant’s Ears, is a tough and resilient ground cover that thrives in shady locations. Its thick, leathery leaves create a bold statement, remaining evergreen throughout the year. In spring, Bergenia produces clusters of pink, magenta, or white flowers on sturdy stems, adding a touch of vibrancy to your garden.
Periwinkle (Vinca minor):
Periwinkle is a reliable ground cover that spreads quickly, forming a dense carpet of evergreen foliage. Its glossy leaves provide an attractive backdrop for the delicate Periwinkle’s ability to tolerate various soil conditions, and its resilience against deer browsing makes it a popular choice for low-maintenance ground coverage.
Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum):
Sweet woodruff is a fragrant ground cover that thrives in shaded areas, making it ideal for under trees or along woodland paths. Its whorls of lance-shaped leaves release a pleasant scent when crushed. In spring, this deer-resistant plant produces clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers, adding charm to its overall appeal.
Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum):
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Creeping thyme is a versatile ground cover known for its low-growing habit and fragrant foliage. As it spreads, it forms a dense mat of tiny, aromatic leaves that release a delightful scent when brushed against. Along with its appealing appearance and pleasant fragrance, creeping thyme offers protection against deer browsing.
Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.):
Coral bells are admired for their stunning foliage, which comes in a wide range of colors, including shades of green, burgundy, silver, and caramel. These deer-resistant plants produce delicate bell-shaped flowers on slender stems, adding a touch of grace to their overall appearance.
Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis):
Japanese spurge is a popular evergreen ground cover valued for its ability to tolerate shade and form dense mats of glossy, dark green leaves. Japanese spurge produces small, white flowers in spring, adding a subtle touch of beauty to its overall appeal. With its deer-resistant qualities, this ground cover remains an excellent choice for areas frequented by deer.
Achillea (Yarrow):
Achillea, commonly known as yarrow, offers an array of colorful flowers and fern-like foliage. This deer-resistant perennial is available in various cultivars, with flower colors ranging from white and yellow to pink, red, and purple.
Yarrow thrives in sunny areas and is drought-tolerant once established. Its attractive blooms, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to deer make it a versatile choice for ground coverage and borders in your garden.
Aconitum (Monkshood):
Aconitum, also known as Monkshood, is a striking perennial with tall spikes of hooded flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white. While it adds a vertical element to your garden, its bitter taste deters deer from grazing.
With its unique blooms and deer-resistant nature, Aconitum adds drama and beauty to your landscape.
Remember, while these ground covers are generally considered deer-resistant, it’s important to note that no plant is entirely deer-proof. Factors such as hunger, the local deer population, and environmental conditions can influence deer browsing behavior.
Deer-resistant Shrubs
Deer-resistant shrubs are a great addition to any garden or landscape, providing both beauty and peace of mind. Here are eight friendly descriptions of popular deer-resistant shrubs:
Fothergilla (Fothergilla spp.):
Fothergilla is an underappreciated shrub with attractive, honey-scented flowers in spring and vibrant fall foliage. Its dense and fuzzy leaves have a bitter taste that deer tend to avoid.
Blue Star Juniper (Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’):
A slow-growing, compact shrub with blue foliage, perfect for adding a bluish accent to your landscape. It requires minimal maintenance and is deer-resistant.
Blue Rug Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis):
This low-growing juniper serves as excellent ground cover, particularly on hillsides. Its dense foliage and resistance to deer make it a reliable choice.
Pfitzer Chinese Juniper (Juniperus chinensis):
With its pom-pom-like shape, this juniper offers a unique look. It is deer-resistant and low-maintenance, thriving in full sun and well-draining soil.
Andromeda (Pieris japonica)
is a dense, evergreen shrub that blooms in early spring, showcasing showy flowers with a powerful aroma. Its fragrance deters deer, and regular pruning helps maintain its shape.
Bluebeard or Blue Mist Shrub (Caryopteris):
Blooming in late summer, this shrub attracts pollinators and is drought-tolerant. The heavy scent of its flowers repels deer. Pruning and maintenance promote its shape and flowering.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia):
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With its silvery-gray foliage and bluish flowers, Russian sage is both drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. It requires minimal maintenance and spreads via underground runners.
Daphne (Daphne x Burkwoodii)
This variegated shrub delights with its extremely fragrant flowers. The scent and poisonous berries deter deer. Proper soil moisture and drainage are crucial for its growth.
Remember that while they are generally resistant to deer, individual deer preferences and environmental factors can still influence their browsing behavior.
Deer-resistant Ground Cover: Recap
Finally, we’ve uncovered a secret to creating a garden that not only dazzles the eye but also keeps those pesky deer at bay. With our handpicked selection of deer-resistant ground covers, you can transform your outdoor space into a breathtaking haven.
Picture cascading carpets of colorful foliage, delicate flowers swaying in the breeze, and vibrant blooms that bring joy to your every step. These ground covers not only thrive in shady areas but also possess an incredible power—they’re unappetizing to deer! Imagine relaxing in your lush, green garden oasis with the assurance that your plants are safe from the mischievous nibbling of deer.
No plant is entirely deer-proof, but these deer-resistant ground covers offer you a fighting chance to enjoy nature’s beauty without the worry. So, dive in, explore, and let these ground covers be your allies in creating a garden that’s both stunning and serene.
If you’re interested in flowering ground covers, check out our post on “Beautiful Flowering Ground Covers” [link]. Discover a wide range of ground covers that burst with colorful blooms, adding a delightful touch to your landscape.
For those who prefer low-maintenance and drought-tolerant options, our post on “Succulent Ground Covers” is a must-read. If year-round greenery is what you seek, our post on “Evergreen Ground Covers” is the perfect resource.
Explore a selection of evergreen plants that maintain their lush foliage throughout the seasons, providing a vibrant and lasting carpet of green in your garden.
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Is Creeping Jenny deer-resistant?
Yes, creeping Jenny is considered deer-resistant. While no plant is entirely immune to deer browsing, creeping Jenny is generally not preferred by deer and is often left untouched.
Do deer eat Creeping Charlie?
No, deer tend to avoid eating creeping Charlie, another name for ground ivy. Its pungent aroma and bitter taste make it unappealing to deer, making it a suitable low-ground cover option.
What low ground cover do deer hate?
There are several low ground covers that deer hate. Some popular options include ajuga, lamium, bergenia, periwinkle, and sweet woodruff. These ground covers not only thrive in various conditions but also possess qualities that make them less appealing to deer.
What plants do deer hate the most?
While deer preferences may vary, some plants are generally unpopular with deer. Along with the low ground covers mentioned earlier, other plants that deer tend to dislike include butterfly bush, boxwood, beautyberry, inkberry, fothergilla, blue star juniper, blue rug juniper, and many more. These plants offer beauty and resilience while deterring deer browsing.
Is creeping thyme deer-resistant?
Creeping thyme is often considered deer-resistant, although individual deer preferences and environmental factors can influence their browsing behavior. While it may not be entirely immune, creeping thyme is generally less appealing to deer, making it a potential option for ground cover in areas frequented by deer.
Source: https://thelittle.garden
Category: Flowers