Lamium, commonly known as Spotted Deadnettle, is a favored groundcover in many gardens due to its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. Its leaves often feature striking silver or gold patterns, complemented by blooms in shades of white, pink, or purple. Gardeners frequently choose Lamium for its ability to brighten shady areas and provide year-round interest. A common question arises for those gardening in areas with wildlife: will deer eat this plant?
Lamium and Deer Resistance
Lamium is generally considered a deer-resistant plant, making it a suitable choice for landscapes where deer are present. Its resistance stems from characteristics deer find unappealing, such as texture or scent. While no plant is entirely deer-proof, Lamium is far less likely to be damaged than other garden plants. This quality makes it a low-maintenance option in deer-prone regions, as its natural defenses mean it often remains untouched.
Why Deer Might Still Browse Lamium
Despite Lamium’s general deer resistance, certain circumstances can lead deer to browse plants they typically avoid. During extreme food scarcity, like droughts or harsh winters, deer become less selective and may consume almost any available vegetation. High deer population density also increases foraging pressure, compelling deer to explore less palatable options. Young, tender Lamium plants may be more vulnerable than mature ones because their defensive characteristics are not yet fully developed. Additionally, individual deer may exhibit unique preferences, occasionally sampling plants generally considered resistant.
Safeguarding Your Lamium From Deer
Protecting Lamium from deer involves several practical strategies, especially in areas with high deer activity. Physical barriers offer a reliable defense; fencing at least 8 feet tall can prevent deer from accessing your garden. For smaller beds or individual plants, netting or cages provide effective localized protection.
Deer repellents can also be employed, utilizing taste-based or scent-based formulations. Taste repellents make the plant unpalatable, often containing ingredients like putrescent egg solids or hot pepper extract. Scent-based repellents, featuring odors such as garlic, mint, or predator urine, deter deer by signaling danger or making the area undesirable.
Consistent reapplication is necessary, especially after rain or as new plant growth emerges. Companion planting is another strategy, where Lamium can be surrounded by other unpalatable plants that create a deterrent effect. Strong-smelling herbs like lavender, rosemary, or marigolds can help mask the scent of more attractive plants, further discouraging deer.