Weigela is a popular ornamental shrub valued for its vibrant, funnel-shaped flowers and attractive foliage. The presence of deer often raises concerns about landscape damage, as browsing can destroy the form and flowering potential of shrubs. Gardeners need to determine how appealing this shrub is to deer before planting it.
Weigela’s Resistance Status
Weigela is generally considered a deer-resistant plant. University extension services often classify it as “Seldom Severely Damaged,” meaning deer typically avoid it when more palatable food sources are available in the landscape. It is not a favored food source and deer usually only browse it under specific circumstances.
The resistance is due to the plant’s physical and chemical properties. Weigela foliage has a slightly coarse texture, which is a physical deterrent deer find unappealing to chew. Additionally, the leaves and stems possess a mild bitterness that discourages consumption. These characteristics make the plant a low-priority target for browsing.
Factors That Influence Browsing
The term “resistant” does not mean “immune,” and deer will sometimes ignore the plant’s natural deterrents. Environmental stress, particularly during winter or drought, can eliminate preferred food sources, making Weigela a last resort. When food scarcity is high, deer will consume almost any vegetation to survive, even plants they normally avoid.
High deer population density can also contribute to browsing pressure on resistant plants. Deer are creatures of habit and often return to the same area once a feeding pattern is established, increasing the chances of sampling less desirable shrubs. Deer also prefer the tender new growth that emerges in spring, which is softer and less woody than the mature foliage, making the young tips of Weigela susceptible to nibbling.
Practical Steps for Plant Protection
If deer browsing becomes an issue despite its natural resistance, gardeners can implement several strategies to protect the shrub. Physical exclusion is the most effective solution, involving temporary netting or small wire cage barriers around the plant during the vulnerable spring growing season. Perimeter fencing should be at least eight feet tall to prevent deer from jumping into a planted area.
Chemical repellents offer another layer of defense by utilizing strong scents or tastes that deer dislike. These sprays often contain sulfurous odors or bitter compounds and must be reapplied frequently, especially after rainfall or as new, unprotected foliage emerges. Strategic placement can also help, such as positioning the shrub near the house or in high-traffic areas where human activity and pet presence deter deer. Mixing Weigela with highly aromatic, less palatable plants, like lavender or chives, creates a scent buffer that encourages deer to move along.