Coreopsis, also known as Tickseed, offers gardeners a burst of bright, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red. These plants are valued for their vibrant color and resilience in the face of heat and drought. For those gardening in areas with white-tailed deer, the question arises whether this plant is safe from browsing. Understanding deer dietary preferences is the first step in protecting your plants.
Coreopsis Palatability to Deer
Coreopsis is generally considered deer-resistant, but not completely deer-proof. Its leaves and stems possess a texture and taste that deer typically find unappealing. Many varieties, such as Lanceleaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) and Threadleaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata), are often classified by university extension services as “seldom severely damaged” or “rarely damaged” by deer.
Deer are selective browsers that prefer tender, broad-leaved plants over those with tough, finely-textured, or fuzzy foliage, like many Coreopsis species. This resistance makes Tickseed a reliable choice for gardens where deer are a common concern, though a hungry deer will still sample vegetation if preferred food sources are exhausted.
Environmental and Situational Browsing Factors
High local deer population density creates increased competition for food, leading to greater pressure on all available plant types. When preferred native forage is scarce, deer will often turn to garden ornamentals they would normally avoid.
Seasonal scarcity, particularly during harsh winters or periods of severe drought, alters deer feeding behavior. During these lean times, deer are less selective and will eat almost any green material to survive, including Coreopsis. Deer often prefer tender, new growth, meaning fresh spring shoots or newly planted Coreopsis plugs may be more vulnerable to browsing than established, mature foliage.
Certain newer cultivars, especially those bred for smoother, less textured leaves or higher moisture content, may be more palatable to deer than the traditional, hairier species. Garden plants situated near natural deer habitat, such as wooded areas or brushy draws, are generally the most heavily browsed, regardless of their resistance rating.
Protecting Coreopsis from Deer Damage
Physical barriers, such as fencing, offer the most reliable long-term defense against deer browsing. While temporary plastic netting can be used to protect newly planted Coreopsis, permanent fencing must be at least eight feet high to prevent deer from jumping over it.
Deer repellents work by creating an unpleasant scent or taste and are a common management technique. These products are generally grouped into taste-based formulas (containing ingredients like hot pepper or egg) and scent-based formulas (featuring putrefied egg solids or animal byproducts). To prevent deer from becoming accustomed to a single deterrent, rotate the type of repellent used and reapply it consistently, particularly after heavy rain washes it away.
Strategic placement can also reduce the likelihood of damage without extensive barriers. Planting Coreopsis close to the house or in high-traffic areas often discourages deer from feeding due to human activity. Interplanting Coreopsis with highly aromatic, known deer-resistant herbs like lavender, rosemary, or sage can help mask the Coreopsis scent, while maintaining plant health ensures robust plants recover quickly from minor browse damage.