Aloe vera is a popular, resilient succulent valued globally for its unique, fleshy leaves. Its striking, rosette-forming structure makes it a favorite for gardeners in arid or semi-arid climates, often serving as a low-maintenance landscape accent. As human development expands, the boundaries between landscapes and wildlife habitats blur, creating conflict for homeowners. Protecting desirable plants from browsing animals, particularly deer, has become a frequent gardening concern.
Determining Aloe Vera’s Palatability to Deer
Aloe vera is generally recognized as deer-resistant, but this distinction should not be mistaken for being deer-proof. The plant’s chemical makeup is its primary defense against large herbivores. The inner pulp is surrounded by bitter-tasting sap containing compounds highly unpalatable to deer.
The bitterness is attributed to anthraquinones, such as aloin, concentrated in the yellow latex beneath the leaf’s skin. These compounds serve as a natural deterrent, often causing mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed. When alternative food sources are available, deer avoid the strong, unpleasant flavor of the aloe leaf.
However, the plant’s resistance decreases when food and water sources are scarce. During periods of drought or high deer population density, animals become stressed and desperate for nutrition. This need can override a deer’s natural aversion, leading them to browse on plants they would otherwise ignore.
Implementing Effective Deer Protection Strategies
Protecting aloe vera requires a multi-faceted approach combining physical obstacles with sensory deterrents. The most reliable exclusion method is an eight-foot-tall woven wire or mesh fence, as deer can clear lower barriers. For smaller or container-grown plants, temporary netting or small chicken wire cages can cover the plant during peak feeding times.
Strategic placement also serves as a deterrent. Planting aloe vera close to the home or patio, where human activity is frequent, discourages deer. Integrating the succulents with strongly scented herbs, such as rosemary or lavender, creates a perimeter of offensive odors.
Repellent Use
Repellents offer another layer of defense and are categorized as contact-based or area-based. Contact repellents give the foliage an offensive taste, often using putrescent egg solids. Area repellents use strong, foul odors, such as blood meal, to deter deer from the vicinity. For effectiveness, repellents must be reapplied frequently, especially after rain. It is important to rotate types to prevent deer from becoming habituated.
Helping Damaged Aloe Vera Plants Recover
If a deer browses on your aloe vera, prompt first aid improves the plant’s chances of recovery. First, remove any heavily damaged or partially chewed leaves. Use a clean, sharp knife or pruners to make a clean cut as close to the base of the plant.
Removing the damaged tissue prevents the entry of pathogens and encourages new growth. The wound must then be allowed to dry out and form a protective seal, known as callusing. This hardening is a defense mechanism against infection and rot.
During recovery, reduce watering frequency. A damaged plant cannot absorb water efficiently, and excess moisture can lead to fungal diseases or root rot. Keep the plant in a bright location and only water sparingly once the cut surfaces have dried.