Hostas are a beloved perennial for shade gardens, offering lush foliage in a variety of colors and textures. Unfortunately, their popularity with gardeners is matched by their appeal to local wildlife, particularly deer. No plant is entirely deer-proof, but understanding deer behavior and specific plant characteristics can help gardeners choose less palatable options. The goal shifts from finding a truly deer-resistant hosta to selecting one that is merely less preferred by grazing animals.
The Reality of Hostas and Deer Preference
Hostas are generally considered a highly palatable food source for deer, often referred to as “deer chow” in gardening circles. Deer are attracted to the soft, succulent texture and high water content of the leaves, especially when the tender new shoots emerge in the spring. This early growth period is particularly vulnerable because deer are often seeking moisture and easy-to-digest forage after the winter.
When preferred plants become scarce, or during dry periods, even the less-favored hosta varieties can be targeted by hungry deer. Deer lack upper incisors, resulting in a characteristic jagged or torn edge on leaves they have browsed. They often graze at a height of 18 to 24 inches, commonly taking the entire leaf down to the stem.
Hostas with Lower Deer Appeal
While no hosta is immune to browsing, certain physical characteristics make some varieties less desirable to deer.
Leaf Texture and Substance
The most important trait is the leaf’s texture, often described as “heavy substance” or leathery. These thicker, tougher leaves are more difficult for a deer to chew and digest. Varieties with pronounced corrugation or heavy texture, like ‘Sum and Substance,’ also tend to deter deer due to their unusual mouthfeel. Other examples that exhibit these characteristics include the miniature ‘Blue Mouse Ears,’ which has thick, small leaves, and ‘Patriot,’ which features a rubbery leaf texture. While these varieties may not stop a desperate deer, they are generally a better choice than thin-leaved, tender hostas.
Waxy Coating
Another deterrent is the presence of a waxy, powdery blue coating, known as a glaucous bloom, on the leaves. This coating can impart a slightly bitter taste or unappealing texture that deer will sometimes avoid. Blue hostas, such as ‘Blue Angel’ and ‘Halcyon,’ possess this waxy layer and also typically have thick leaf substance, doubling their defense.
Practical Strategies for Deer Deterrence
Since even the toughest-leaved hostas can be eaten, active management is necessary for gardens with high deer pressure.
Physical Barriers
The most reliable method of protection is a physical barrier, though it must be substantial. A fence must be at least eight feet tall to effectively prevent deer from jumping over it. For new or especially valuable plantings, temporary netting or wire cages can be placed directly over the hostas to provide immediate protection.
Repellents
Repellents offer a less intrusive option and generally work by offending the deer’s sense of smell or taste. Taste-based repellents often contain ingredients like putrescent egg solids or capsaicin that make the leaves unpleasant to eat. Scent-based repellents use strong odors like garlic or predator scents to deter the animals. To maintain effectiveness, repellents must be rotated and reapplied frequently. Alternating between scent and taste formulations prevents adaptation. Reapplication is particularly important after heavy rain or during periods of rapid new growth, as the repellent can wash off or the new foliage will be unprotected. Planting highly scented herbs like lavender or allium nearby can also serve as a secondary measure to mask the hostas’ appealing smell.