It is a common sight for gardeners to find their cabbage plants munched on, leading to the question of whether deer are the culprits. Deer do consume cabbage, and its presence in gardens often attracts them. This article explores why deer are drawn to cabbage, the potential health implications for these animals, and practical strategies gardeners can employ to protect their crops.
Why Deer Are Attracted to Cabbage
Deer are opportunistic feeders, seeking accessible food sources, especially when natural forage is scarce. Cabbage presents an appealing option due to several factors. It has high water content, attractive in dry conditions, aiding hydration.
Beyond hydration, cabbage offers nutritional value, with beneficial vitamins and minerals. Young cabbage leaves are tender and palatable, making them an easy meal. Deer consume various garden vegetables, and cabbage, like other Brassica family members (broccoli, cauliflower), is a favored food.
Health Implications for Deer
While deer readily consume cabbage, a diet heavily reliant on it can lead to health concerns for the animals. Cabbage, like other cruciferous vegetables, contains natural compounds called goitrogens. These substances can interfere with thyroid function by hindering thyroid hormone production, potentially causing an enlarged thyroid (goiter).
Although small amounts of cabbage are unlikely to cause significant harm, large quantities or a sudden shift to a cabbage-heavy diet can be problematic. Deer have a varied natural diet, which helps balance potential harmful components. A rapid shift to large amounts of a single food, like garden cabbage, can also cause digestive upset.
Effective Strategies for Cabbage Protection
Protecting cabbage from deer often requires a multi-faceted approach. Physical barriers are among the most effective methods. Fences should be at least 8 feet tall, as deer are capable jumpers. Double fencing, with two parallel fences spaced a few feet apart, can confuse deer and deter them from attempting to jump.
Alternatively, a solid privacy fence at least 6 feet tall can be effective by blocking the deer’s view. Smaller areas can be protected with netting or chicken wire placed directly over plants.
Repellents offer another layer of defense, working through taste or smell to deter deer. Commercial repellents are available, but homemade solutions can also be effective. Recipes often include strong-smelling ingredients like rotten eggs, garlic, or hot peppers mixed with water and dish soap, which are then sprayed on or around plants. These repellents need reapplication every two weeks or after rain to maintain effectiveness. Hanging bars of strong-scented soap near plants can also deter deer.
Companion planting involves strategically placing plants that deer dislike near those they prefer. Deer tend to avoid plants with strong scents or bitter tastes. Examples of such plants include:
- Garlic
- Onions
- Marigolds
- Mint
- Lavender
- Sage
Interplanting these unappealing varieties around cabbage can create a natural barrier. Additionally, scare tactics like motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle deer, though they may become accustomed to these over time.