Impatiens bring color to shady gardens, but do deer eat them? Sadly, most impatiens are not safe from deer. These animals enjoy their sweet taste, especially when food is scarce. Some types, like New Guinea impatiens, may be less tasty to deer but are not fully safe.
Do Deer Avoid Certain Plants?
No plant is 100% safe from deer. Hunger, season, and food availability affect what they eat. Even plants labeled as deer-resistant can be eaten if deer are desperate. Strong-smelling plants like lavender and mint are usually left alone.
How to Care for Impatiens
Impatiens grow best in shade and need proper care. Follow these tips:
- Light: They love dappled light or full shade. Too much sun can burn them.
- Soil: They prefer moist, well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist. They wilt quickly if dry.
- Fertilizer: Feed them every two weeks with liquid fertilizer.
Are Any Impatiens Deer-Resistant?
Most impatiens attract deer, but New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) are somewhat resistant. They have larger flowers and bold colors, but deer may still nibble if food is scarce.
How to Keep Deer Away from Impatiens
Want to grow impatiens without deer damage? Try these methods:
1. Use Strong Scents
Deer avoid strong smells. Apply repellents with garlic, putrid eggs, or soap. Reapply after rain.
2. Plant with Deer-Repelling Flowers
Pair impatiens with lavender, rosemary, mint, or ferns. These plants help deter deer.
3. Put Up Barriers
Use fences or netting. A fence should be at least 8 feet high to stop deer.
4. Try Containers
Grow impatiens in pots or hanging baskets. Place them on porches or decks to keep them safe.
Deer-Resistant Flowers to Consider
If deer are a big problem, try these plants instead:
Annuals:
- Ageratum – Deer dislike its rough texture.
- Alyssum – Tiny, fragrant flowers.
- Begonia – Bright flowers and colorful leaves.
- Chrysanthemum – Blooms in many colors.
- Coleus – Unique leaf patterns.
- Marigold – Strong scent repels deer.
- Nasturtium – Spicy leaves and vivid flowers.
- Salvia – Fragrant and unappealing to deer.
- Zinnia – Long-lasting and easy to grow.
Perennials:
- Bee Balm (Monarda) – Mint-scented flowers attract pollinators.
- Bleeding Heart (Dicentra) – Heart-shaped flowers in the shade.
- Lavender (Lavandula) – Strong scent keeps deer away.
- Peony (Paeonia) – Large, showy flowers.
- Russian Sage (Perovskia) – Highly deer-resistant with scented leaves.
Ornamental Grasses:
- Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides) – Soft, fluffy flower spikes.
- Japanese Sedge (Carex morrowii) – Beautiful mounds of foliage.
Shade-Loving Deer-Resistant Plants:
- Astilbe – Feathery flowers in bright colors.
- Ferns – Most varieties are deer-proof.
- Hellebore (Lenten Rose) – Early blooms in many shades.
- Hosta – Some types resist deer.
- Lungwort (Pulmonaria) – Spotted, variegated leaves.
Final Thoughts
Impatiens are lovely but attract deer. To grow them safely, use repellents, companion plants, or barriers. If deer are a major issue, switch to deer-resistant flowers for a worry-free garden. A little planning ensures a colorful yard without hungry visitors!