Moss roses are considered deer-resistant plants; deer typically do not prefer to eat them. However, no plant is entirely deer-proof, and under certain conditions, deer may still browse on moss roses.
Understanding Deer and Moss Roses
Moss roses (Portulaca grandiflora) have characteristics that make them resistant to deer browsing. Their leaves and stems are fleshy and succulent, which gives them a texture often unappealing to deer compared to more tender, leafy vegetation. Their succulent nature also means lower water content, which is less palatable for deer.
Some varieties of moss roses contain aromatic oils which deer dislike. These compounds impart a taste or scent that makes the plant less attractive as a food source for deer. The combination of a less appealing texture and bitter or strong-smelling compounds means moss roses are often passed over in favor of other options.
Factors Influencing Deer Foraging Behavior
Deer foraging behavior is influenced by environmental and population factors that can lead them to consume plants they typically avoid. During severe food scarcity, such as drought or harsh winter conditions, deer become less selective in their diet. When preferred food sources are scarce, moss roses, despite their unappealing characteristics, may become a viable option for sustenance.
High deer populations in an area can also increase browsing pressure on all available vegetation, including plants typically considered resistant. With more deer competing for limited food, even less palatable plants like moss roses may be consumed. Additionally, young, tender growth on moss rose plants is more attractive to deer than mature, established foliage, as new shoots lack the full development of deterrent compounds or the tougher texture of older growth.
Strategies for Protecting Your Moss Roses
Gardeners can implement strategies to protect moss roses from deer, especially in areas with significant deer activity. Physical barriers, such as fencing, offer a reliable deterrent by preventing deer from accessing the plants entirely. Even low fences, around 3 to 4 feet high, can discourage deer from jumping into garden beds.
Applying deer repellents makes the plants unappetizing or unpleasant to deer. These repellents work by taste or smell, containing ingredients like rotten eggs, capsaicin, or thiram that deter deer without harming the plants. Regular reapplication, especially after rain or new growth, is important for maintaining their effectiveness. Also, planting highly unpalatable species around moss roses, known as companion planting, creates a protective perimeter that deer are less likely to cross.