The Popular Flower You Won't Want In Your Yard If You're Trying To Keep Deer Away

When deciding what to plant in your flower garden, azaleas (rhododendron spp.) are a go-to option for brightly-colored, statement bushes that will add something special to any outdoor space. However, you may want to think twice before adding these plants to your garden if you have a deer problem. While wild deer can add a touch of whimsy to your gardenscape, they love to munch on azalea bushes – even eating the leaves right through to the stems, which can result in bare and barren bushes. Deer particularly love the new flower growth that occurs in the spring and summer months, as this is nutrient-rich food for these grazing herbivores.

This is what makes azalea bushes a risky choice for a gardener hoping to enjoy their azalea's bright spring blooms and orange-red fall foliage. Plus, once a deer or two discovers a nutrient source like an azalea bush, they won't forget it and are more likely to return until all of the flowers and foliage are eaten, which can lead to severe damage to your shrub.

While azaleas, in particular, are deer-attracting plants, there are many flowers that can withstand your local deer population — and even some plants that keep away deer. Peonies (paeonia), rhubarb (rheum x hybridum), and jasmine (jasminum) are three plants that deer tend to steer clear from, along with lilac (syringa vulgaris), summer snapdragon (angelonia angustifolia), and lavender (lavandula). These offer similar, striking colors and fragrances to that of azaleas without attracting any of those unwanted grazers.

However, if azaleas are a must-have in your garden, and you live in a deer-frequented area, then there are a few strategies you can implement to keep the bushes free from nibbles. Fences are a good first option, as these can keep deer and other pests out of your yard. Otherwise, you can try deer repellent sprays, or planting the bushes closer to your home as the bushes are less likely to get damaged when they are closer to human activity. Whether you choose to deer-proof your azalea bushes, or forgo planting them altogether, choosing the right plants for your garden is the best way to set you up for long-term green thumb success. While azaleas are a stunning option, there are plenty of other blooms that are just as beautiful and won't lead to damage from deer later down the line.