Arborvitae (Thuja) is a popular evergreen plant used widely in residential landscaping for hedges and screens, but its attractiveness extends beyond human appreciation. The short answer to whether deer like arborvitae is an emphatic yes, especially in regions with active deer populations where browsing is a major concern for homeowners. Protecting these plants often requires a combination of strategies, which vary in effectiveness based on the cultivar and the local environment.
Deer Preference The Truth About Arborvitae
Deer are strongly attracted to arborvitae, particularly the common American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis), because it provides an accessible food source during the lean winter months. As an evergreen, the foliage remains available when deciduous trees and shrubs have dropped their leaves. This continuous availability makes it a target when natural food sources are scarce, such as after heavy snowfalls or prolonged cold weather.
The foliage’s texture and composition also contribute to its high palatability. The soft, fan-like structure is easily digestible, and the plant is a sweet-tasting snack. This preference means arborvitae is often heavily browsed when food pressure increases due to weather or high deer density. For a hungry deer, an ornamental evergreen hedge provides a reliable and concentrated source of calories right in a residential landscape.
Identifying Signs of Deer Browsing
Distinguishing deer damage from other pests is relatively straightforward by examining the nature and height of the injury. Deer lack upper incisors, which forces them to bite and tear at the plant material, leaving behind a characteristic ragged or frayed edge on the remaining stems and foliage. This torn appearance is distinct from the clean, angled cuts left by rodents like rabbits or voles.
The location of the damage is also a clear indicator. Deer typically browse from ground level up to six feet high, which is the maximum reach of a standing adult deer. This feeding pattern often results in a distinct “browse line” on the plants. The lower and outer branches are stripped bare while the foliage above this height remains untouched. Over time, this repeated lower browsing can give the plant an unnatural, top-heavy or “lollipop” appearance.
Cultivar Differences and Relative Resistance
Not all arborvitae varieties are equally susceptible to deer browsing; certain cultivars demonstrate greater resistance. The highly popular ‘Emerald Green’ (Thuja occidentalis) is one of the most vulnerable types, often falling victim to deer appetites due to its soft foliage and commonality in landscapes. Other varieties of the American Arborvitae also tend to be highly palatable.
Cultivars that are hybrids of Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) and Japanese Arborvitae (Thuja standishii) generally offer better resistance. The ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae, a cross of these two species, is a prime example. It possesses a more fibrous, tougher foliage that is less appealing to deer. While ‘Green Giant’ is considered deer-resistant, it is not deer-proof, as extremely hungry deer may still browse it during periods of food scarcity.
Actionable Protection Methods
The most effective way to prevent deer damage is through a multi-pronged approach combining physical barriers and deterrents.
Physical Barriers
Physical exclusion offers the most reliable defense, typically involving fencing or netting to block access to the foliage. A permanent perimeter fence designed to exclude deer should be at least eight feet high, as deer are capable of jumping over lower obstacles.
For individual plants or small hedges, temporary physical barriers like black plastic netting or wire cages can be installed before the winter browsing season. The netting should be secured to the ground and supported by stakes to prevent the deer from pushing it aside. Avoid tightly wrapping plants in solid materials like burlap, which can trap moisture and increase the risk of disease.
Repellents
Repellents work by making the plant taste or smell unpleasant. They fall into two main categories: contact and area deterrents. Contact repellents, which are applied directly to the foliage, often contain active ingredients like putrescent egg solids that emit a foul odor. These products must be reapplied regularly, usually every four to eight weeks, and immediately after heavy rain or snow to maintain effectiveness.
Cultural Practices
Strategic cultural practices can also reduce the risk of browsing. Planting less susceptible cultivars, such as ‘Green Giant’ or ‘Steeplechase’, is a long-term solution. Avoid planting highly susceptible arborvitae varieties near known deer trails or wooded areas where deer frequently travel, as this places the plants directly in their path. A combination of these methods provides the best chance of protecting arborvitae from consistent deer pressure.