do deer it black eyed susans

2 min read 22-01-2025

Meta Description: Are your beautiful Black-Eyed Susans falling prey to hungry deer? Find out if deer eat Black-Eyed Susans, and discover effective deer-resistant gardening strategies to protect your blooms. Learn about deer behavior, plant preferences, and proven deterrents to keep those elegant flowers safe.

Understanding Deer and Their Diets

Deer, those graceful creatures often admired in our gardens, can be surprisingly destructive. Their diet is primarily herbivorous, meaning they feed on plants. But what exactly do they find appealing?

What Deer Eat

Deer are opportunistic feeders. Their diet varies by season and the availability of food sources. They prefer tender, young growth, but they'll happily munch on a wide variety of plants. Favorites include leafy greens, succulent shoots, and fruits.

Deer and Black-Eyed Susans: The Verdict

The good news is: Deer generally don't find Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta) particularly appealing. Their coarse, slightly hairy leaves and somewhat bitter taste make them less desirable compared to other plants. However, "generally" doesn't mean "never".

Factors Influencing Deer Browsing

While deer might not actively seek out Black-Eyed Susans, several factors can influence their feeding behavior:

Desperation: During harsh winters or periods of food scarcity, deer might resort to eating plants they wouldn't normally touch. A desperate deer might nibble on your Black-Eyed Susans if nothing else is available.
Accessibility: If other preferred food sources are scarce, deer may be more likely to browse on Black-Eyed Susans, especially if they are easily accessible.
Individual Deer Preferences: Just like humans, deer have individual preferences. Some deer might find Black-Eyed Susans more palatable than others.

Protecting Your Black-Eyed Susans from Deer

Even though deer may not be a significant threat, there are ways to maximize the chances of protecting your Black-Eyed Susans:

Deterrents

Repellents: Commercial deer repellents containing strong scents or tastes can deter deer. Apply them regularly, especially after rain. Many options are available, both natural and chemical. [Link to a reputable source on deer repellents]
Fencing: A sturdy fence around your garden is the most effective barrier against deer. Ensure the fence is high enough (at least 8 feet) to prevent deer from jumping over it.
Physical Barriers: Use chicken wire or netting to create a temporary barrier around individual plants or small sections of your garden.
Planting Companions: Consider planting fragrant herbs like lavender or rosemary near your Black-Eyed Susans. The strong scent might deter deer.
Strategic Placement: Plant Black-Eyed Susans in areas that are less accessible to deer, such as near structures or thorny bushes.

Other Deer-Resistant Flowers

If you want to ensure deer stay away from your flowerbeds, consider planting these deer-resistant options alongside your Black-Eyed Susans:

Coneflowers (Echinacea): These daisy-like flowers are known for their toughness and deer resistance.
Daylilies (Hemerocallis): These are tough, adaptable perennials that are rarely bothered by deer.
Lavender (Lavandula): The strong scent of lavender is a natural deer repellent.
Salvia: Various Salvia species are attractive to pollinators and unattractive to deer.

Conclusion

While deer rarely target Black-Eyed Susans as a primary food source, they might nibble on them under certain circumstances. Implementing some preventative measures will greatly increase your chances of enjoying a vibrant display of these cheerful flowers year after year. Remember, a multi-pronged approach combining repellents, physical barriers, and strategic planting is often the most effective. Enjoy your beautiful, deer-resistant garden!