The English daisy (Bellis perennis) is a low-growing herbaceous perennial known for its cheerful, button-like flowers in shades of white, pink, and red. This species is often grown as a biennial in many climates, forming a dense rosette of leaves close to the ground. The good news is that English daisies are generally considered deer resistant, meaning they are rarely the first choice for browsing animals.
Understanding English Daisy Deer Resistance
English daisies are classified by horticultural experts as plants that are “Seldom Severely Damaged” by deer. This high level of resistance stems from their inherent chemical composition, which acts as a natural deterrent. The foliage and flowers of Bellis perennis contain compounds that deer find unpalatable.
The plant possesses a mildly bitter flavor, and ingestion can cause mild gastrointestinal upset. This bitter taste functions as a defense mechanism, signaling to the deer that the plant is not a preferred food source. Deer rely heavily on smell and taste to select their forage, and they generally avoid plants with these defensive properties.
Because of these naturally occurring bitter compounds, English daisies are low on a deer’s preference list, especially when other, more palatable options are available in the landscape. This inherent resistance makes them a reliable choice for gardens in areas with moderate deer activity. However, the term “resistant” does not mean “proof,” and the plant’s small stature may make it seem less substantial to a browsing animal compared to larger foliage.
Factors That Influence Deer Feeding Habits
Despite the natural resistance of English daisies, deer may still browse on them under certain environmental conditions. The primary reason a resistant plant is eaten is extreme food scarcity. During severe drought or late winter when preferred forage is unavailable, a hungry deer will consume nearly any plant material to survive.
High localized deer population density also increases the likelihood of browsing, as competition for food forces animals to try less desirable plants. A group of deer may sample a patch of daisies out of curiosity, or because their travel corridor passes directly through a garden. This exploratory nibbling can still cause significant damage to the low-growing plant.
The age of the plant also plays a role in its appeal. Young English daisies that are newly planted or producing tender, soft new growth can be more attractive to deer than fully established, tougher foliage. Deer are inquisitive feeders and will investigate new additions to a garden, so new plantings are particularly vulnerable until they have developed their full defensive compounds.
Strategies for Protecting Your Daisies
If deer are browsing your English daisies, several practical strategies can be employed for protection.
Physical Barriers
For newly planted beds, installing a temporary, low-profile barrier can be effective during the establishment phase. Wire mesh or bird netting draped over the plants for the first few weeks will prevent the deer from accessing the tender growth.
Repellents and Deterrents
Another method involves using scent- or taste-based repellents, which are applied directly to the foliage. These commercial products often use ingredients like rotten eggs, garlic, or blood meal to create an offensive odor or flavor. To maintain effectiveness, these repellents must be reapplied regularly, particularly after rain or when new growth emerges.
It is beneficial to rotate between two or three different repellent formulas, as deer can quickly become accustomed to a single scent or taste. Placing other strongly scented, highly resistant plants, such as lavender or bee balm, along the perimeter of the daisy bed can also create a natural deterrent barrier.