Wax begonias (Begonia semperflorens) are common annual bedding plants used to provide continuous color in gardens. Gardeners often worry about local wildlife, particularly deer, who browse on ornamental plants. The concern is whether these popular annuals are attractive enough to make them a regular target. Understanding a deer’s diet is the first step in protecting your begonia display.
Are Wax Begonias a Preferred Deer Food?
Wax begonias are categorized as deer-resistant plants, meaning they are seldom severely damaged when other food sources are available. This resistance is due to the plant’s physical and chemical characteristics. The leaves and stems possess a slightly waxy or succulent texture that deer find unappealing and difficult to chew.
The lack of appeal is enhanced by substances that contribute to a mild bitterness or toxicity. Deer are sensitive to taste and texture, leading them to bypass the foliage in favor of smoother vegetation. Therefore, begonias are rarely the first choice on the deer’s menu in a garden with diverse planting.
No plant is completely deer-proof, only deer-resistant. Under conditions of high deer population density or environmental stress, such as drought or deep snow cover, a hungry deer will graze on almost any available material. Even the low palatability of wax begonias will not prevent browsing damage in these situations.
Recognizing Deer Damage vs. Other Pests
Identifying the source of plant damage is necessary before implementing protective measures. Deer browsing leaves specific evidence that distinguishes it from damage caused by smaller animals like rabbits. The most telling sign is the nature of the cut on the stem or leaf.
Deer lack upper incisor teeth, so they cannot make clean, precise cuts. When feeding, a deer grips the plant material between its lower teeth and a hard upper dental pad. This results in a ragged, torn, or shredded appearance on the remaining stems, which reliably indicates deer damage.
The height of the damage is another clue, as deer typically browse on plants between one and six feet off the ground. Rabbits feed much lower, clipping stems neatly at a forty-five-degree angle just above the soil line. Supporting evidence, such as large hoof prints or pellet-like droppings, may also be found nearby.
Effective Strategies for Protecting Begonias
The most reliable method for protecting any plant from deer is a physical barrier, though this is often impractical for small flower beds. A fence must be at least eight feet tall to deter a determined deer from jumping over it. For begonias planted in containers or small beds, temporary netting or small wire cages can protect vulnerable new growth.
A more manageable solution involves sensory deterrents that target the deer’s sensitive sense of smell and taste. Commercial repellents, which often use ingredients like putrescent egg solids or capsaicin, can be sprayed directly onto the foliage to create an offensive taste. Scent-based products use strong odors to discourage approach.
It is important to rotate the type of repellent used every few weeks, as deer can quickly become accustomed to a single scent or taste, reducing its effectiveness. Another simple method involves strategic planting, placing begonias close to the house or mixing them with aromatic plants like lavender, chives, or strongly scented herbs. Motion-activated sprinklers, which startle the deer with a sudden burst of water, are also effective.