Montauk daisies (Nipponanthemum nipponicum) are a popular choice for many gardeners, cherished for their robust, shrub-like growth and profusion of white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers that brighten gardens in late summer and fall. These hardy perennials, native to coastal regions of Japan, thrive in sunny sites and well-drained soil. A frequent question arises: are Montauk daisies resistant to deer browsing?
Deer Resistance of Montauk Daisies
Montauk daisies are generally considered deer resistant, meaning deer typically prefer to browse other plants. Their thick, dark green, succulent foliage has a coarse, leathery texture. Additionally, the plant has a pungent or musky odor, which deer tend to avoid. While these qualities make Montauk daisies less desirable to deer, it is important to understand that no plant is entirely “deer-proof.” However, under specific conditions, deer may still browse Montauk daisies.
Why Deer Might Still Browse
Despite their general resistance, deer may still browse Montauk daisies under certain circumstances. One significant factor is high deer pressure, which occurs in areas with large deer populations. When deer numbers are high, competition for food increases, making them less selective in their foraging habits, leading them to consume plants they would ordinarily avoid.
Another reason for browsing is a scarcity of alternative food sources. During periods of drought, severe winters, or in newly developed regions where natural forage is limited, deer may resort to eating almost any available vegetation. Young or newly planted Montauk daisies can also be more vulnerable, as their tender new growth may be more appealing. Finally, individual deer preferences can vary; some deer may simply be less picky or develop a taste for plants typically considered resistant.
Strategies for Protection
Gardeners can employ several strategies to further protect Montauk daisies from potential deer browsing. Physical barriers are often the most effective method, especially for young or vulnerable plants. Fencing, particularly woven wire or mesh at least 7 to 8 feet tall, can deter deer from entering a garden space. Double fencing, with two fences of different heights placed a few feet apart, can also create a psychological barrier.
Deer repellents offer another layer of protection, working through taste or scent to make plants unappealing. These repellents, which can include commercial products or homemade solutions with strong odors like garlic, hot pepper, or soap, need regular reapplication, especially after rain or as new plant growth emerges.
Strategic planting can also help; positioning Montauk daisies closer to a residence or interplanting them with highly unpalatable, strongly scented plants like lavender, mint, or rosemary may offer some deterrence. Regular monitoring of plants for signs of browsing allows gardeners to adjust their protection strategies as needed.