Supertunias are a popular choice for gardeners seeking vibrant, continuous blooms throughout the growing season. These vigorous annuals are widely used in hanging baskets, containers, and landscape beds due to their prolific flowering and low maintenance needs. A frequent question among those cultivating these beautiful plants, especially in areas with wildlife, concerns their susceptibility to deer browsing.
Supertunias and Deer Resistance
Supertunias are generally considered deer-resistant, meaning they are less likely to be grazed by deer compared to other plants. This resistance is attributed to characteristics that make them unappealing to deer. Supertunias possess a slightly bitter taste that deer typically avoid, preferring other, more palatable vegetation. Their foliage can also have a distinct fragrance that deer find unpleasant, further deterring them from browsing. Some varieties may also have a fine, somewhat coarse or sticky texture, which deer often dislike.
While Supertunias exhibit resistance, no plant is entirely “deer-proof.” The term “deer-resistant” indicates deer are less inclined to consume them, especially when alternative food sources are readily available. In environments with high deer populations or during periods of extreme hunger, deer may still browse plants they would normally avoid. A sufficiently hungry deer will eat almost anything. Therefore, while Supertunias are a good choice for minimizing deer damage, they are not an absolute guarantee against browsing.
Managing Deer Activity Around Supertunias
Even with their deer-resistant qualities, Supertunias can sometimes fall victim to deer browsing, particularly under certain conditions. Factors such as a scarcity of preferred food sources, drought, or a high local deer population can compel deer to consume plants they would typically ignore. Implementing proactive strategies can significantly reduce the likelihood of deer damaging Supertunias.
Gardeners can employ various deterrents. Scent-based repellents, utilizing strong odors like garlic, rotten eggs, or mint, can be sprayed directly onto plants or applied around the garden perimeter. These create an unpleasant sensory experience for deer, encouraging them to seek food elsewhere. Taste-based repellents, often containing capsaicin or bitter compounds, make the plant unpalatable upon contact. For sustained effectiveness, these topical repellents require reapplication after rain or irrigation, and rotating different types can prevent deer from becoming accustomed to a single deterrent.
Physical barriers offer a reliable long-term solution. Fencing at least 7.5 to 8 feet tall is often recommended to deter deer, as they are capable jumpers. For smaller areas or individual plants, netting can provide a temporary protective cage. Strategic planting can also help; interspersing Supertunias with plants deer strongly dislike, such as highly aromatic herbs or plants with prickly textures, can create a less inviting environment for browsing. Motion-activated sprinklers, which startle deer with a sudden spray of water, offer another non-lethal deterrent option.