What Flowers Do Deer Not Eat

Deer tend to avoid plants that have strong scents, tough or fuzzy leaves, or bitter tastes. Here are some flowers that are generally less appealing to deer:

1. Daffodils (Narcissus): These are toxic to deer and therefore typically left alone.
2. Lavender (Lavandula): The strong scent of lavender tends to repel deer.
3. Salvia (Salvia spp.): Known for their aromatic foliage, salvias are not favored by deer.
4. Peonies (Paeonia): The bitter taste and tough foliage make peonies less attractive to deer.
5. Foxglove (Digitalis): These plants are toxic, so deer usually avoid them.
6. Yarrow (Achillea): The aromatic leaves of yarrow deter deer.
7. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum): These plants are generally not preferred by deer.
8. Marigolds (Tagetes): The strong odor of marigolds tends to repel deer.
9. Columbine (Aquilegia): The tough texture of columbine leaves makes them less appealing to deer.
10. Bee Balm (Monarda): The aromatic leaves and flowers repel deer.

While these flowers are usually resistant to deer, no plant is completely deer-proof. Hungry deer will eat almost anything if food is scarce. It’s also important to note that deer preferences can vary by region and over time. Using a combination of deer-resistant plants and other deterrent methods, such as fencing or repellents, will provide the best protection for your garden.