Calibrachoa, commonly known as Million Bells, is a popular flowering plant prized for its prolific, petunia-like blooms and trailing habit. These vibrant annuals are frequently featured in hanging baskets and containers, providing color from spring until the first frost. For those gardening in areas populated by wildlife, the presence of deer introduces a challenge. A primary concern is whether this appealing plant is a target for browsing deer.
Calibrachoa’s Deer Resistance Rating
Calibrachoa is widely promoted and generally considered a deer-resistant plant choice by many garden centers. This classification means that deer typically bypass it in favor of more palatable food sources, making it a low-risk addition to a garden. However, no plant is entirely deer-proof, and official ratings offer a more nuanced perspective. Rutgers University, which provides a standard scale for plant palatability, categorizes Calibrachoa as “Occasionally Severely Damaged.”
This rating suggests that deer do not prefer the plant but may browse it when their usual diet is unavailable or during periods of environmental stress. The term “occasionally” highlights that damage is not frequent but can be significant when it occurs. Deer may take an investigative bite out of a Calibrachoa but then leave the rest of the plant untouched, indicating a strong aversion after the initial sample. Such browsing is often a sign of high deer pressure or extreme food scarcity.
Why Deer Usually Avoid Calibrachoa
Deer tend to avoid Calibrachoa due to the plant’s natural defense mechanisms, which affect its taste and smell. The plant contains a complex biochemical makeup that includes secondary metabolites, such as alkaloids. These compounds render the foliage and flowers unpalatable, resulting in a bitter taste when consumed.
Deer are highly sensitive to strong odors, and Calibrachoa possesses a notably strong scent that acts as a deterrent. This intense aroma often signals that the plant is not a desirable food source, causing them to move on to less aromatic options. The combined effect of the strong scent and the bitter chemical properties makes Calibrachoa a low-preference item in a deer’s expansive diet.
Practical Steps to Deter Deer
For gardeners who experience frequent deer visits, relying solely on the plant’s natural resistance may not prevent occasional damage. A simple strategy involves strategically placing Calibrachoa in locations difficult for deer to access. Planting them in hanging baskets or tall window boxes elevates the foliage above the typical browsing height.
The application of commercial or homemade repellents can reinforce the plant’s natural defenses. Many commercial repellents utilize foul tastes or strong odors, such as rotten eggs or garlic. These need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain or new growth appears. Some gardeners hang strongly scented household items, like bars of soap, near the plants, as the intense odor disrupts the deer’s sense of smell.
Physical Barriers
For ground-level plantings, physical barriers provide reliable protection against persistent deer pressure. Installing a perimeter, such as a tall fence, is effective, but it must be at least eight feet high to prevent deer from jumping. A less intrusive method involves stringing fishing line between stakes at various heights around the garden. This creates an invisible barrier that spooks the deer when they brush against it. Motion-activated sprinklers are another tactic that startles deer with a sudden noise and spray of water, encouraging them to leave.