Are Gerbera Daisies Deer Resistant? A Comprehensive Guide

Gerbera Daisies are considered to be moderately deer resistant, and while they are not the first choice of deer for consumption, they may still be eaten if other preferred food sources are scarce.

According to a study conducted by Cornell University in 1999, deer are known to eat Gerbera daisies, especially when hungry and the plants are still young and tender. However, as the plants mature and develop thicker stems, they become less susceptible to deer damage. Additionally, certain varieties of Gerbera daisies are more deer-resistant than others, making them a better choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.

To protect your Gerbera Daisies from possible deer nibbling, implement physical barriers, such as fencing, or apply deer-repellent sprays on the plants. It’s important to note that deer resistance varies depending on the variety and local deer population habits, so take additional precautions if needed.

Factors That Affect Deer Resistance

Deer resistance is affected by several factors, such as the availability of other food sources, the time of year, and the size of the deer population. In general, deer are less likely to eat plants with a strong scent or bad taste.

Gerbera daisies are not known for having a strong scent or bad taste, making them less deer resistant than some other plants, but there are some things that gardeners can do to make their Gerbera daisies less attractive to deer.

Gardeners can try interplanting Gerbera daisies with other plants known to be deer resistant, such as yarrow, chives, tansy, buttercups, or goldenrod. They can also try using contact or scent repellents or installing fences to keep deer out of the garden.

Alternatives to Gerbera Daisies

While Gerbera daisies are a popular choice for gardeners, there may be better options if you live in an area with a high deer population. There are plenty of other beautiful flowers and plants that are less attractive to deer, such as:

●  Lavender

●  Salvia

●  Yarrow

●  Butterfly weed

●  Coneflower

These plants are not completely deer-proof but less likely to be eaten by deer than Gerbera daisies.

Tips for Protecting Plants from Deer

If you do decide to plant Gerbera daisies in an area with deer, there are things you can do to protect your plants:

Fencing is the most effective way to keep deer out of your garden, but it can be expensive and only feasible for some. Repellents can be hit or miss, as certain scents or tastes may more deter some deer populations than others. Companion planting with deer-resistant plants can also help, but it’s important to note that no plant is completely deer-proof.

Ultimately, the best way to protect your Gerbera daisies (and other plants) from deer is to be aware of the deer population in your area and take appropriate precautions. With a little effort, you can enjoy beautiful blooms without worrying about deer damage.