Joe Pye Weed, a stately perennial known botanically as Eutrochium, is a favored garden addition due to its large, showy clusters of pink or purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer into fall. This native plant attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. A common concern for gardeners, however, is its susceptibility to deer browsing.
Deer and Joe Pye Weed: The Relationship
Joe Pye Weed is generally considered deer-resistant. This resistance stems from several plant characteristics: its foliage has a bitter taste, and the plant can possess a strong aroma and a somewhat coarse texture, all of which discourage browsing.
While resistant, Joe Pye Weed is not entirely deer-proof. Deer feeding habits can change based on environmental factors. In situations of extreme hunger, such as during droughts or when preferred food sources are scarce, deer may browse on plants they would normally avoid.
Young, tender growth is also more susceptible than mature foliage. High deer population pressure can also lead to deer trying less palatable plants. If minimal damage occurs, particularly late in the season, the plant is likely to recover as it dies back to the ground in fall.
Protecting Joe Pye Weed from Deer
For gardeners in areas with high deer activity or if browsing has occurred, several strategies can help protect Joe Pye Weed. Physical barriers are often the most effective method for preventing deer access. An 8-foot-tall fence made of woven wire or strong, UV-resistant polypropylene mesh can deter deer, as they are capable jumpers. For individual plants or smaller garden sections, wire cages or netting can provide protection.
Deer repellents offer another layer of defense, working by taste or scent to make the plants unappealing. Commercial repellents are available, often containing ingredients like putrescent egg solids or strong scents like mint or spice. Homemade solutions can also be effective, such as mixtures of garlic, hot pepper, water, and a small amount of dish soap. Bars of strong-smelling soap hung near plants or sachets of human hair can also act as deterrents.
Strategic planting can further reduce the likelihood of deer damage. Placing Joe Pye Weed closer to the house or in areas with frequent human activity can deter deer, as they tend to avoid busy locations. Companion planting with other strongly scented herbs like lavender, rosemary, or mint around Joe Pye Weed can create a less appealing environment for deer. Rotating different types of repellents and reapplying them regularly, especially after rain or as new growth emerges, helps prevent deer from becoming accustomed to a single deterrent.