Impatiens are popular shade-loving annuals, known for their vibrant, continuous blooms that brighten dimly lit garden spaces. Their popularity often leads to a frustrating challenge for homeowners: white-tailed deer browsing. The concern over whether deer view the foliage and flowers as a meal dictates planting decisions in suburban and rural areas. This article answers the question of impatiens’ palatability and offers methods for protecting plantings or finding suitable replacements.
The Palatability of Impatiens to Deer
Impatiens, including common Impatiens walleriana and New Guinea Impatiens, are generally a favored food source for deer. These plants are succulent, tender, and lack the natural defenses that deter herbivores, such as strong odors, bitter compounds, or rough textures. The soft, easily digestible flowers and foliage offer a quick source of hydration and nutrients. Deer are drawn to the relatively high sugar content, making them a sweet and appealing option. Consequently, impatiens are often one of the first ornamental plants browsed and can suffer severe damage quickly.
Environmental and Situational Factors Influencing Browsing
While impatiens are attractive, browsing severity is amplified by external pressures and environmental conditions. Deer are opportunistic feeders, expanding their diet to include less-preferred plants when natural forage is scarce. This occurs frequently during drought or in areas with high deer population density where competition for food is intense. Seasonal changes also influence feeding habits, with damage increasing significantly during early spring when new growth is limited. Furthermore, young deer are less selective than mature animals and will sample nearly any plant they encounter.
Practical Strategies for Protecting Existing Impatiens
Gardeners determined to keep impatiens should use a layered approach combining taste repellents and physical barriers. Repellents create an unpleasant sensory experience but require consistent management to remain effective. It is beneficial to rotate between two or more repellent products to prevent deer from becoming habituated to a single scent or taste.
Taste-based sprays, such as those containing capsaicin or a mixture of egg whites and water, must be applied directly to the foliage. Reapplication is necessary every two to four weeks, and immediately after heavy rain or overhead watering, as the protective coating washes away. Contact repellents are most effective when applied before deer establish a feeding pattern on the plants.
Physical exclusion is the most reliable method, as it completely separates the animal from the food source. Temporary barriers, such as lightweight garden netting or mesh cages, can be placed over individual beds or containers. For larger areas, installing a perimeter fence at least eight feet tall is necessary due to the deer’s jumping ability. A less visible option is a low-voltage electric fence, often baited, which administers a harmless corrective shock to train the deer to avoid the area.
Deer-Resistant Alternatives for Shade Gardens
Gardeners seeking vibrant color in shady spots without the threat of deer damage have several excellent alternatives. These plants are naturally avoided by deer due to characteristics like strong fragrances, bitter tastes, or rough textures. The tubular flowers of Wishbone Flower (Torenia) are often ignored due to their texture and mild toxicity. Perennials like Astilbe and Lungwort (Pulmonaria), which features fuzzy foliage, are rarely browsed. Incorporating alternatives like Coleus, Japanese Painted Ferns, or varieties of Begonia that contain bitter compounds can create a less attractive landscape.