Forget-me-nots (Myosotis species) are a common sight in gardens, recognized for their clusters of tiny, sky-blue flowers that often appear early in the season. Gardeners in areas with active deer populations frequently wonder if these delicate plants will become a favorite target for browsing. Understanding the natural defenses of the plant is important for determining whether they can be safely included in an unprotected landscape design. Information about a plant’s palatability is a necessity for strategic planting.
Forget-Me-Nots Are Generally Avoided
Forget-me-nots are widely regarded as highly deer-resistant plants and are infrequently browsed in gardens. Deer generally prefer other, more palatable vegetation, leaving Myosotis species largely untouched. This makes them a reliable choice for gardeners who want to incorporate blue color into their borders without attracting unwanted attention from foraging herbivores.
The resistance level is consistently noted across many regions. While no plant is entirely immune to being sampled, forget-me-nots are not considered a preferred food source that deer actively seek out. They often pass by these plants in favor of softer, more nutritious alternatives.
Why Deer Find Them Unappealing
The foliage of the forget-me-not plant possesses specific biological characteristics that discourage deer from consuming them. The stems and leaves are covered in fine, irritating hairs, a feature known as pubescence, which gives the plant a rough, unpleasant texture. This coarse surface is a physical deterrent that the sensitive mouths of deer tend to avoid when browsing.
The plant also contains chemical compounds that contribute to its unappetizing nature. Myosotis species contain mild alkaloids, naturally occurring chemicals that impart a slightly bitter taste. Deer are highly sensitive to bitter flavors and use their sense of taste and smell to reject plants that are distasteful. This combination of rough texture and bitter flavor makes the plant unappealing.
When Resistance Might Fail
The term “deer-resistant” does not mean “deer-proof,” and there are specific conditions under which these plants might be browsed. When natural food sources are scarce, such as during harsh winter months or periods of drought, deer become less selective about what they eat. A starving deer will consume almost any available vegetation, including plants they normally avoid.
High deer population density in a localized area also increases the likelihood of browsing damage to resistant plants. When preferred forage is depleted due to overpopulation, deer are forced to explore less palatable options in gardens. Younger plants or newly emerging shoots may also be sampled by curious deer before they develop the full complement of irritating hairs and bitter compounds that deter feeding.