Lavender is an aromatic plant. It is a popular choice for gardens due to its aesthetic appeal and various uses, ranging from ornamental landscaping to essential oil production and culinary applications. This perennial shrub typically features gray-green leaves and purple flowers, though some varieties display pink, blue, or white blossoms.
Lavender’s Natural Deterrents
Lavender’s strong fragrance and bitter taste are the primary reasons many animals find it unappealing. The plant’s natural deterrent properties stem from its essential oils, which contain compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate. Linalool is noted for its insect-repellent activity, while linalyl acetate contributes to lavender’s characteristic floral scent and deterring effects. These volatile compounds create a “scent barrier” that many pests find unpleasant or disorienting.
Animals That May Eat Lavender
Despite lavender’s general deterrent qualities, certain animals can consume it, particularly when other food sources are scarce. Deer, for instance, typically avoid lavender due to its deterrent qualities, but they might nibble on it during periods of severe food scarcity. Young, tender lavender plants are more vulnerable to deer browsing than mature, woody ones. Rabbits also generally dislike lavender’s strong fragrance and fuzzy leaves, which deter them from feeding on it. However, like deer, rabbits may resort to eating young lavender plants if lacking alternative food.
Voles are another animal that can cause damage to lavender plants, primarily by eating their roots. These small rodents are known to consume entire plants, especially smaller ones, and can be particularly problematic in gardens. While some suggest voles may avoid lavender due to its oils, they can still target the roots, potentially killing the plant.
Certain insect pests can affect lavender. Spittlebugs are a frequent pest on lavender, creating a foam-like substance on stems to protect their nymphs. While unsightly and capable of stunting flower development, spittlebugs rarely cause significant damage. Aphids and whiteflies are sap-sucking insects that can congregate on young leaves and stems, leading to leaf curling or stunted growth. Rosemary beetles can also feed on the new shoots of aromatic plants including lavender.
Safeguarding Your Lavender Plants
Protecting lavender plants from animals involves a combination of physical barriers and deterrent strategies. Fencing is a highly effective method, especially for young plants. For deer, fences should be at least 8 feet tall, as deer can jump high. Rabbit fencing needs to be at least 2-3 feet tall and extend 6-12 inches below ground, bent outwards, to prevent burrowing. Individual plant cages made from hardware cloth or chicken wire can protect newly planted or vulnerable lavender.
Repellents can also be used, though their effectiveness varies and consistent reapplication is often necessary, especially after rain. Commercial repellents often contain ingredients like putrescent egg solids, hot pepper, or garlic. Some gardeners use homemade solutions with cayenne pepper or strong-smelling bar soap. Strategic planting of lavender in dense borders can create a “sensory barrier.”
Protecting Against Voles
For voles, burying mesh wastebaskets or wire cages around plant roots during planting can prevent root damage. Maintaining a tidy garden by removing brush piles, tall grass, and weeds reduces hiding places for pests. Keeping lawns mowed and creating bare buffer spaces around garden beds can also deter voles.
Protecting Against Insects
For insect pests like spittlebugs, a strong spray of water from a hose can dislodge them. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can manage soft-bodied pests such as aphids and whiteflies.