Poinsettias, with their vibrant red and green foliage, are a familiar sight during the holiday season. These widely cultivated plants have become synonymous with festive decorations. As more gardeners incorporate these colorful plants into outdoor displays, questions often arise about their interaction with local wildlife, particularly deer.
Deer and Poinsettias
Deer are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat a variety of plants depending on food availability, though poinsettias are not typically a preferred food source. While the milky sap within poinsettias contains compounds that can irritate the mouth and digestive systems of animals, potentially deterring them, deer may still browse on these plants under certain conditions. During periods of scarcity, such as severe winters or in areas with high deer populations, deer are more likely to sample plants they would normally avoid. This can lead to damage to outdoor poinsettia displays.
Deer browsing behavior is influenced by seasonal factors. As natural forage like grasses and shrubs become less available, especially with snow cover, brightly colored plants like poinsettias become more noticeable and may be seen as an alternative food source. This behavior is particularly prevalent in urban and suburban environments where deer frequently venture closer to human activity in search of sustenance.
Poinsettia Toxicity for Deer
Poinsettias are considered to have low toxicity to animals, including deer. The plant’s milky sap can cause mild irritation if ingested, leading to symptoms such as mild stomach upset, drooling, or vomiting. However, severe poisoning or fatalities are rare, even if large quantities are consumed. Research consistently shows that poinsettias pose minimal risk.
The irritant nature of the sap acts more as a deterrent than a severe toxin. For a significant adverse reaction to occur, a deer would need to consume an exceptionally large amount of plant material, which is unlikely given their general preference for other forage. The mild discomfort experienced after ingesting poinsettia is typically self-limiting and does not require medical intervention. This understanding is supported by major poison control centers and agricultural extensions.
Keeping Deer Away from Poinsettias
Protecting outdoor poinsettias from deer involves various strategies. Physical barriers offer the most reliable defense; fencing, for instance, can effectively deter deer, though it needs to be at least 7 to 8 feet tall to prevent jumping. For smaller displays or containers, netting can provide a temporary shield. Positioning poinsettias in elevated containers or in areas close to human activity can also reduce the likelihood of browsing.
Deer repellents can be used to make plants unappealing through scent or taste. Commercial repellents are available, and some gardeners use homemade solutions involving ingredients like rotten eggs, garlic, or hot pepper. These repellents require regular reapplication, especially after rain, to maintain their effectiveness. Planting deer-resistant companion plants with strong aromas, such as rosemary or junipers, near poinsettias can also help deter deer. Rotating repellent types can prevent deer from becoming accustomed to a single one.