Canna lilies, with their vibrant blooms and bold foliage, are popular additions to many gardens, offering a tropical touch and a splash of color. Gardeners often wonder about the susceptibility of these striking plants to browsing by local deer populations. Understanding how deer interact with canna lilies can help in planning and protecting garden spaces.
Understanding Canna Lily Deer Resistance
Canna lilies are generally considered deer-resistant, meaning deer typically avoid eating them. Their leaves are tough and fibrous, making them less appealing for deer to chew and digest compared to softer foliage. Canna lilies may also contain compounds that deer find unappetizing or mildly toxic, further deterring them from browsing.
Deer often prioritize plants that are high in moisture, young, and succulent. Given their leathery leaves and large size, cannas do not fit this preferred profile, contributing to their low appeal as a food source. While no plant is entirely deer-proof, canna lilies are consistently listed among plants deer rarely damage, making them a suitable choice for gardens in areas with deer activity.
Factors Influencing Deer Foraging Behavior
While canna lilies are generally avoided, circumstances can influence deer foraging habits. Extreme hunger, often brought on by severe weather conditions like droughts or harsh winters, can lead deer to browse plants they normally would not eat. High deer population densities in an area also increase the likelihood of damage to various plant species, as preferred food sources become scarce.
Young, tender canna plants can be more vulnerable to browsing than mature ones. Deer might nibble on new growth before moving on, especially if other food is limited. Deer also establish travel paths and feeding patterns, and if a canna lily happens to be along a frequently used route, it might experience incidental browsing. These environmental pressures and behavioral patterns can override a plant’s natural resistance.
Protecting Your Canna Lilies from Deer
For gardeners facing persistent deer issues, several strategies can help safeguard canna lilies. Physical barriers, such as fencing, are one of the most effective methods to prevent deer access. A fence of adequate height, typically at least eight feet, can deter deer from entering the garden space. Smaller, temporary fences or netting can protect young plants during their vulnerable stages.
Applying deer repellents to canna lilies can also be a deterrent. Many commercial repellents are available, often using scents or tastes that deer find unpleasant. Homemade options, such as mixtures containing Irish Spring soap or bloodmeal, can also be used, though they may require more frequent reapplication, especially after rain. Strategic plant placement involves positioning cannas closer to heavily trafficked areas or near the house, where deer are less likely to venture. Companion planting with other strongly scented deer-repellent plants, such as Russian sage, marigolds, lavender, or alliums, can create a buffer zone around cannas.