Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, signal the arrival of autumn with their vibrant, late-blooming flowers. These plants are a popular choice for seasonal decoration, providing a burst of color when much of the garden is fading. Gardeners often find their displays unexpectedly destroyed overnight, frequently attributing the damage to local wildlife. Determining the true culprit is the first step toward successful fall gardening.
Palatability and Deer Consumption Habits
Mums possess a naturally strong, somewhat bitter scent due to chemical compounds in their foliage, but they are not reliably deer-resistant. Deer are opportunistic feeders who sample almost any available plant, particularly when preferred forage is scarce in the fall. The bright flowers and foliage contain sugars and protein, making them an attractive, nutrient-rich option.
In areas with high deer populations or during drought, browsing pressure increases, often overriding the plant’s natural deterrents. While mums might be ignored in a suburban yard, they can quickly become a preferred food source when other options are limited. Hunger is the ultimate driver.
Recognizing Specific Signs of Deer Damage
Diagnosing the cause of plant damage requires examining the physical evidence, as deer damage differs significantly from that of smaller pests. Deer lack upper incisor teeth, so they cannot make a clean cut when eating foliage and stems. Instead, they tear and pull the plant material, resulting in ragged, frayed, or shredded edges on the remaining stems and leaves.
The height of the damage is a significant clue; deer browsing typically occurs between one and six feet from the ground. If the damage is a clean, sharp, angled cut near the soil line (often less than 18 inches high), the culprit is more likely a rabbit. Finding hoof prints or compressed soil near the plant also helps confirm a deer’s visit.
Effective Methods for Protecting Mums
Protecting mums requires a multi-pronged approach utilizing both physical and chemical deterrents. Physical barriers offer the most reliable exclusion, especially for small displays. Temporary caging made from mesh wire or chicken wire can be placed directly around individual plants.
For larger beds, a temporary fence should be erected to a height of at least six to eight feet, as deer are capable jumpers. If a full-height fence is impractical, motion-activated sprinklers can startle deer with a sudden burst of water, acting as a short-term deterrent.
Repellents work by making the plant smell or taste unpleasant. Effective options include taste-based formulas (containing putrescent egg solids) or scent-based formulas (containing garlic or capsaicin). Apply repellents directly to the foliage and reapply every two weeks or after significant rainfall to maintain effectiveness. To prevent deer from becoming accustomed, rotate between two or three different repellent types throughout the season.