The large, lush blooms of the peony are a coveted sight in spring and early summer gardens, representing a significant investment of time and care for many gardeners. This perennial flower is a popular choice for its reliability and beauty. For those living near wooded or rural areas, the presence of white-tailed deer presents a constant challenge to maintaining a pristine landscape.
Peonies and Deer The Verdict on Palatability
Peonies are widely classified as deer-resistant plants, meaning they are not a preferred food source for browsing animals. Deer typically avoid the foliage and stems due to their unpalatable taste and sometimes sticky texture. This natural resistance stems from the plant’s chemical composition, which includes various bitter compounds.
The plant’s high resistance rating is confirmed by agricultural universities, which often list peonies in the “rarely damaged” category. Deer will ignore plants with these compounds when more appealing options are available. Deer-resistant is not the same as deer-proof, especially when local conditions change.
Factors Influencing Deer Feeding Habits
While peonies are generally safe, a significant lack of other food sources can override a deer’s natural aversion to bitter foliage. During periods of scarcity, such as a prolonged drought or a harsh winter, deer are forced to expand their diet to include non-preferred plants. High population density can also lead to increased browsing pressure, causing deer to sample plants they would normally ignore to meet their nutritional needs.
The stage of growth also influences vulnerability, as deer are most likely to target the tender, new shoots and buds that emerge in early spring. These young parts of the plant have yet to fully develop the concentrated, bitter compounds found in the mature foliage. Once the leaves fully expand and harden, the plant becomes much less appealing to the animals. Browsing at this early stage is particularly damaging because it removes the potential for that season’s bloom.
Effective Strategies for Protecting Peonies
Gardeners experiencing deer pressure can implement several strategies to protect their peonies, especially during the vulnerable spring growth phase. Physical exclusion is the most reliable method, involving temporary fencing or netting around the plants. A simple, three-foot-high wire cage placed over the emerging shoots can prevent the animals from reaching the tender growth.
The application of taste and scent deterrents can also be effective, though they require consistent maintenance. Commercial products containing ingredients like putrescent egg solids or capsaicin create an offensive taste or odor that conditions the deer to avoid the area. Deterrents need frequent reapplication, especially after rainfall, and rotating between two different types prevents the deer from becoming accustomed to a single formula.
Strategic planting aids in protection by placing peonies in less accessible spots, such as closer to the house or within a fenced-in area. Interplanting peonies with highly aromatic, deer-resistant companions like allium or Russian sage creates a natural scent barrier.