Virginia arborvitae ( Thuja occidentalis ) is considered to be cervid resistant . This mean that cervid are less likely to feed on the leafage of this particular works compared to other plant that are more attractive to deer . However , it ’s crucial to take down that cervid resistance can motley depending on gene such as the availability of other nutrient sources and the level of cervid population in a specific area .
I have personally experienced the deer resistance of Virginia arborvitae in my own garden . I live in an orbit with a temperate deer population , and I have several Virginia arborvitae planted as a privacy screen door along the perimeter of my property . Despite make other plant nearby that are often browsed by deer , such as hostas and roses , I have not observed any important damage to my Virginia arborvitae . This has led me to reason out that they are indeed deer resistant .
The ground why Virginia arborvitae is considered deer resistive is in all probability due to its leafage . The needles of this evergreen plant tree are aromatic and have a slightly caustic taste , which deer find less appealing . to boot , the heavy foliage of the Virginia arborvitae can also act as a hindrance for cervid , as they favor plants with more open and approachable foliage .
It ’s of import to take down that while Virginia arborvitae is generally deer insubordinate , it is not entirely deer - substantiation . In times of high deer population or when food source are scarce , deer may still browse on Virginia arborvitae , especially if there are no other attractive options available . Therefore , it ’s always a good musical theme to take extra measures to protect your Virginia arborvitae if you live in an area with a high cervid universe or if you have had previous issue with deer terms .
Here are some additional pourboire to aid protect your Virginia arborvitae from cervid browse :
1 . fencing material : Install a forcible roadblock such as a deer fence around your Virginia arborvitae to foreclose deer from access them . This can be especially utilitarian if you have a large number of works or a high deer population in your area .
2 . repellant : employ deer repellents to the foliage of your Virginia arborvitae . There are various commercial repellents available that can help deter deer from feed on your plants . These repellent typically turn back ingredients that smell or taste unpleasant to deer .
3 . Companion planting : hem in your Virginia arborvitae with plant that are less attractive to deer . This can assist divert their care away from your arborvitae and towards other industrial plant . Some cervid - resistant fellow traveller plants include lavender , yarrow , and Russian salvia .
4 . panic tactics : practice scare tactics such as motion - activated sprinklers or noise - get to devices to startle deer and warn them from approaching your Virginia arborvitae . These maneuver can be efficient in deter deer , especially if they are used systematically .
By apply these strategy , you’re able to further enhance the cervid resistance of your Virginia arborvitae and minimize the risk of exposure of cervid damage . However , it ’s important to commend that no plant life can guarantee arrant protection against deer , as their alimentation behaviour can vary . Regular monitoring and proactive measures are key to exert the wellness and aesthetics of your Virginia arborvitae in areas with deer populations .
Caroline Bates
