Bambi-Proof Blooms: Deer Resistant Annual Flowers

Finding flowers that are deer-resistant can be tricky. Deer will eat just about anything if they are hungry enough. Deer seem to have different appetites in different areas of the country or even between nearby neighborhoods. There are some rules of thumb about plants that deer generally don’t find appetizing, but ultimately it’s about trial and error. If you live in a location with particularly high deer pressure, I suggest trialing plants first. Purchase one plant and if they don’t mess with it then create a beautiful mass planting the following year. This will save you time, money, and frustration and ultimately make you a much happier gardener and cohabitator with our pesky deer friends. Here are some general rules of thumb to consider when selecting deer-resistant flowers: 

1. Deer don’t like strong odors (for example marigolds, mint, and salvia).

2. Deer think odd textures are unappetizing (for example dusty miller, lamb’s ear, and yarrow).

3. Deer will leave toxic plants alone (for example foxglove).

4. Deer avoid prickly plants (holly and sterile barberry).

5. Deer detest plants with milky sap (Euphorbia, milkweed, and daffodils [all of which are also toxic to deer]).

This will be a two part series. I will be sharing annuals today (most of which can be planted now due to short maturity times or that are cool-season hardy annuals that will survive the winter and flourish in the Spring) Next week, I’ll cover deer resistant flowering perennials that will be ready to plant this Fall.

Spring Blooming Flowers:

Snapdragons

Snapdragons are a whimsical, spike flower that everyone loves. If you squeeze the sides of these tubular blooms, look like a dragon’s snout opening and closing. They are a fun addition to the Spring garden. They grow best in cool weather, but some varietals, like the Rocket and Potomac series, can stand the heat. Favorite Varietals:

1. Madame Butterfly

2. Potomac series

3. Opus series

4. Rocket series

5. Chantilly series

Bupleurum

Bupleurum is a great filler with chartreuse green flowers. You can cut it from flower to seed head stage or leave it in the garden to self-seed. It prefers full sun. I’ve successfully grown it outside my fence and the deer nor the rabbits have touched it. Direct sow the seeds in the Fall. Favorite Varietal: Green Gold

📷: The Gardener’s Workshop

Ageratum

Ageratum has a very fuzzy texture making it unappealing to deer. It has a purple “blue” color that is often difficult to find in the garden. Grows in full sun or part shade. It’s gorgeous paired with classic yellow Rudbeckias. Favorite Varietal: Blue Horizon

Summer/Fall Blooming Flowers:

Zinnias

Zinnias are the jewels of the garden. Their colors are saturated and bold making them perfect for the summer garden. They are easy to grow from seed, attract pollinators, and thrive in full sun, and well-drained soil. Favorite Varietals:

1. Benary’s Giant series

2. Queeny Lime series

Marigolds

Marigolds have a strong distinctive smell so deer leave them alone. If you don’t like the scent either, simply strip the leaves, and the off-putting scent is gone. Marigolds grow best in full sun. Deadhead to keep the blooms coming until the first frost. Favorite Varietals:

1. CoCo Gold

2. CoCo Yellow

3. White Swan

Cosmos

If a wildflower look is what you’re going for, look no further than Cosmos. They are delicate and airy with daisy-like flowers some looking like cupcake liners while others are double and full. They grow best in full sun and would benefit from some support. They come in muted tones and dark tones depending on the look you’re going for. Favorite Varietals:

1. Afternoon White

2. Double Click series

3. Cupcake series

Incorporating deer-resistant flowers into your garden can be a game-changer, offering both beauty and peace of mind. While no plant is entirely deer-proof, understanding what makes certain flowers less appealing to deer is key to creating a stunning, low-maintenance garden. By focusing on plants with strong scents, unique textures, and natural defenses, you can enjoy a vibrant, flourishing garden without the frustration of constant deer damage. Remember, trial and error is your best friend when dealing with deer—start small, observe, and expand your plantings once you find what works. With a bit of planning and the right plant choices, you can create a thriving, deer-resistant garden that brings joy and color throughout the growing season.

Keep blooming and happy gardening,

Nicole Dillon | Breemar Flower Farm | Ashland, VA | Zone 7b🌸