Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, are popular autumn flowers that add color to gardens and landscapes. However, many gardeners have to deal with the challenge of deer browsing on their mums. So, can deer eat mums? The answer is yes; deer are known to browse various plants, including mums.
In this article, we will explore the feeding habits of deer, the reasons why they may be attracted to mums, and what you can do to protect your mums from deer browsing.
Understanding the Feeding Habits of Deer
Deer are herbivorous animals that feed on various plants, including shrubs, flowers, grasses, and trees. They are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat whatever plant material is available.
In the wild, deer browse various plants, including forbs, shrubs, and trees. However, when they come into contact with human-populated areas, they may also browse ornamental plants in gardens, parks, and landscapes.
Deers have a complex digestive system that allows them to digest various plant materials. They have a four-chambered stomach that ferments plant material before it is digested. This allows deer to extract nutrients from rigid plant materials other animals cannot digest.
Deers also have a strong sense of smell, which they use to locate food. They are attracted to plants that have a strong odor or produce a strong scent. This is why they are often attracted to plants high in volatile oils, such as mums.
The Science Behind Deer and Mums
Deer are known to eat a wide variety of plants, but their diet varies depending on the time of year and food availability. In the fall, when many plants are dying back and food is scarce, deer will eat just about anything they can find.
This includes mums. However, it’s important to note that deer do not prefer mums over other plants. They will eat mums if they are easily accessible and no other food options are available.
How to Protect Your Mums from Deer
While deer may not prefer mums, they will still eat them if they are easily accessible. You can use a combination of physical barriers and repellents to protect your mums.
Fencing
One of the most effective ways to keep deer away from your mums is to install a fence around your garden. A wall at least 8 feet tall will keep deer out.
Deer repellents
There are a variety of deer repellents available on the market. Some of the most popular include sprays, granules, and devices that emit high-pitched noise. These repellents create an unpleasant smell or sound that deer associate with danger.
Plant selection
Choosing plants that deer are less likely to eat can also help protect your mums. Some good options include daffodils, chives, and alliums.
Why Are Deer Attracted to Mums?
Mums are popular autumn flowers that produce a strong scent and are known to be high in volatile oils. This makes them an attractive food source for deer. In addition, mums are often planted in gardens and landscapes where deer are known to browse. This makes them an easy target for deer.
Another reason deer may be attracted to mums is that they are often planted in large groups or clusters. This makes them an attractive food source for deer because they can browse multiple plants at once.
Protecting Your Mums from Deer Browsing
If you want to protect your mums from deer browsing, there are several strategies that you can use. One of the most effective strategies is to use deer repellents. Several types of deer repellents are on the market, including sprays, granules, and electronic repellents. These repellents work by emitting a strong odor or sound that is unpleasant to deer.
Another strategy that you can use to protect your mums from deer browsing is to install a physical barrier around your garden or landscape. This can include fencing, netting, or mesh. These barriers work by physically preventing deer from accessing your mums.
Another strategy is to use motion-activated lights or noise-making devices to discourage deer from browsing on your mums. These devices work by startling deer when they come into contact with them.
A least used but highly effective method is to use a dog specifically trained to chase away deer.
It’s important to remember that no single strategy will be 100% effective in protecting your mums from deer browsing. A combination of methods is often the most effective approach.
FAQ:
Q: Are mums toxic to deer?
A: No, mums are not toxic to deer. They are a type of flower and are not harmful to them if consumed in moderate amounts.
Q: Will deer damage my mum’s plants?
A: It is possible that deer may damage mum plants if they are readily available and other food sources are scarce. You can use deer repellents or install a physical barrier around the area to protect your plants.
Q: How can I prevent deer from eating my mums?
A: To prevent deer from eating your mums, you can use deer repellents, install a physical barrier around the area, or plant deer-resistant varieties of mums.
Q: Are there any specific mums varieties deer are less likely to eat?
A: Some mum varieties that deer may be less likely to eat include “Sheffield Pink” and “Anastasia.” However, it’s important to note that deer may still eat these varieties if other food sources are scarce.
Conclusion
Mums are a beautiful addition to any fall garden, but they can be a target for deer. While deer may not prefer mums, they will eat them if they are easily accessible. By using a combination of physical barriers and repellents, you can protect your mums and enjoy their beauty for many years.
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