Do Deer Eat Hydrangeas? Here's What You Need To Know

Hydrangeas, which are widely found in Asia and America, are a type of genus or a blanket term that refers to more than 70 species of blooms.

It is important to note, however, that most hydrangeas grow as shrubs, though some trees and lianas are also found. A hydrangea is usually cultivated in spring and autumn, but it also blooms brightly and beautifully in the summer months. The ornamental appeal of hydrangeas is well known.

That being said, how exactly are hydrangeas and deer related? What do these pesky animals think of the blooms, or would they pass them up? Unfortunately, for most of us, deer do indeed eat hydrangeas. Therefore, these plants are likely to be threatened by deer if they are at your place.

In case you’re wondering how to get started, here’s everything you need to know about how to keep deer away from your prized flowers.

Hydrangeas are eaten by deer?

Most common hydrangea bushes have been preyed upon by deer, mostly out of preference. That is why deer-removal strategies are necessary to protect your flowers.

Hydrangeas are popular with deer, right?

The beautiful foliage of hydrangeas attracts deer, so if you live in an area frequently frequented by deer, your flowers may be at risk of getting damaged.

The deer will usually come looking for food before spotting your plant’s beautiful leaves, so they’ll try to eat them as soon as they see them. This naturally affects the plants that are just a couple of weeks or months old. Others, especially the older ones, survive the damage.

In light of this, if you have a bunch of new hydrangeas in your home, you should consider protecting them from deer as soon as possible. The detailed guidelines in this article will be discussed later, but if you haven’t already, you should fence your property or install deer-resistant wires immediately.

Deer can eat Hydrangeas, but will they grow back?

Because hydrangeas are resilient, they will bloom again even if they get eaten by deer. This is also because most deer only eat the upper parts of your favorite blooms. You should check the flower buds right after deer damage to determine if they are in good condition.

It’s worth noting that hydrangea buds often serve as a major backup when deer feast on their foliage. If you find the buds intact or with little damage after a deer attack, your shrub is likely to flower again.

The easiest way to address this issue is to invest in the right equipment to protect your new hydrangeas from deer damage. Deer damage on new hydrangeas is significantly higher than it is on older ones. In order to deter deer from entering the property, a sturdy fence would serve as its primary and greatest deterrent.

What is the best way to prevent deer from eating hydrangeas?

Follow these guidelines to prevent deer from eating your hydrangeas.

Mixes made at home

Using this simple, non-toxic solution, you can keep deer away without harming them. Plus, as it contains no chemicals, it won’t harm your plants.

Having said that, even though the mix won’t hurt deer, they will stay away from your hydrangea bush, repelled by the scent. How do you make the mix? It’s simple! Add an egg yolk to 750 ml of water and mix well. Add a tablespoon of baking powder or soda to the mix and mix well.

You should follow this ritual especially after rainy days to make sure that the effect of the mix is not compromised. When you’re ready, transfer it to a sprayer and spray it near your bushes every one or two weeks. In hot and humid climates, this method works well. No, we will not get the ghastly smell of egg yolk as humans, but deer will.

Use soap as a cleaning agent

A freshly scented bath is the perfect way to unwind, but deer don’t appreciate it as much. Since deer absolutely hate strong fragrances, soap is one thing they absolutely don’t like.

Here’s the deal. Simply cut some soap into small cubes and place them near your favorite hydrangea bushes. The trick will work like a charm to keep deer away.

Plant deer-repellent plants

If you have a garden full of lilies, tulips, hostas, and hydrangeas, you’re probably inviting the deer. Should you stop planting these beautiful flowers? Definitely not. Just plant them with deer repellent plants.

Deer repellant plants usually have a heady scent, which gives them the idea that you don’t want them in your garden.

The boxwoods

The lavender plant

The foxglove

The ferns

The poppies

Install an electric fence

Electric fences are an excellent idea if you have several hydrangea bushes. Just wrap the fence around the bushes and enjoy your beautiful flowers without worrying about deer.

Use nets to protect yourself

There are several gardening enthusiasts who have found success using these nets. These nets are widely available both in physical stores and online.

The nets are extremely lightweight and invisible. They just need to be draped over your shrubs and anchored to the ground with solid wooden posts.

If you use this method, the plant will eventually transcend the net when it grows, so you’ll have to be extra careful when you attempt to remove its leaves and flowers once it has grown. It’s nothing compared to the peace of mind you get knowing your hydrangeas are safe.

Get your radios ready

There’s a tried-and-true way to keep deer off your garden. Get any radio (preferably solar-powered variety) and place it in the middle of your lawn. You may or may not change the station periodically.

The sound of the radio will startle the deer, and they will be up and out of your property in no time!

by Deer?

Those wondering whether hydrangeas are eaten by deer are not alone. Many ask the same question in an attempt to find out if hydrangeas are indeed deer-resistant. The answer is no. Because deer tend to gobble down everything when they are hungry enough, you cannot classify any plant as deer resistant.

It is true, however, that deer prefer certain plants over others, including hydrangeas. According to several gardening enthusiasts, hydrangea bushes are often completely or partially decimated by deer. You should therefore think about protecting your hydrangea bushes from prying deer if you have them.

Are Hydrangea Bushes Eaten

The Oakleaf hydrangea is a beautiful and stunning addition to your garden. Because of its massive height, deer are unable to reach it right up and do not find it appealing.

Deer do not prey on oakleaf hydrangeas despite their stunning flowers and lack of distinctive smell. If you are planning to get this variant at home, try dwarf varieties first. If you feel comfortable, you can switch to full-grown varieties once you are comfortable enough.

Limelight Hydrangeas are eaten by deer?

In addition to being low-maintenance, limelight hydrangeas bloom in yellowish clusters and are highly tolerant. However, do deer prefer limelight hydrangeas? The answer is still unclear, because while some people claim they have never been attacked by deer with limelight hydrangeas, others have faced some tough times when the blooms were almost completely wiped out.

Use a deer repellant even when planting limelight hydrangeas. You’ll be able to have peace of mind knowing that your plant is prepared for any attacks (if any).

In situations such as these, it is less likely that they will avoid touching your hydrangeas. That is why it is important to research and install the best deer repellent equipment.

Plant deer-proof shrubs around your plants as a precautionary measure. You can also try the other methods we mentioned in this article. If all else fails, install an electric fence since there are no other options.

Regardless, by following these guidelines, you’ll soon be on your way to a deer-free garden where your hydrangeas can thrive and bloom.

Do Deer Eat Hydrangeas? Here’s What You Need To Know