10 Deer-Resistant Trees to Enhance Your Landscaping
Are you tired of watching deer turn your trees into a buffet? These animals can cause a lot of damage by munching on leaves, bark, and branches, especially when other food is hard to find in the winter. This can slow down the growth of your trees, weaken them, and even cause young trees to die. The damage isn’t just an eyesore; it can also lead to higher costs and more work to keep your yard looking nice. By choosing deer-resistant trees, you can protect your landscape, save time and money on repairs, and still enjoy the beauty of nature without worrying about the local wildlife taking over your garden.
What makes a tree "deer-resistant"?
Trees and other types of plants that are considered "deer-resistant" typically have certain qualities that make them less appealing or harder for deer to eat. These are distinguished from plants that are labeled "deer-repellant", which have qualities that cause deer to avoid the surrounding area. Deer-resistant qualities can include:
- Thorny or spiky foliage. Trees with thorns or sharp leaves can deter deer from feeding, as they are uncomfortable or painful to eat.
- Strong or bitter odor. Trees that emit strong or unpleasant smells, especially from their leaves or bark, can be less attractive to deer. Scents like mint, pine, or citrus are often off-putting to them.
- Tough or leathery leaves. Trees with thick, tough, or leathery leaves are harder for deer to chew and digest, making them less likely to be eaten.
- Hairy or fuzzy leaves. Some trees have leaves with a hairy or fuzzy texture, which deer tend to avoid because the texture is unpleasant to them.
- Toxic or irritating chemicals. Certain trees produce chemicals that are toxic or irritating to deer. These natural defenses can cause mild discomfort or be harmful if ingested, so deer typically steer clear of them.
- High sap or resin content. Trees that produce a lot of sap or resin can be sticky and difficult for deer to eat, discouraging them from feeding.
- Less nutritious. Some trees simply don’t offer much in terms of nutrition for deer, making them less appealing when other food sources are available.
What are some common deer-resistant trees?
1. Eastern Redcedar (Juniperus virginiana)
Eastern redcedars typically grow to heights of 30 to 60 feet, although some specimens can reach up to 90 feet under optimal conditions. The foliage is typically dark green but can turn a bronze or reddish color in winter. The leaves are scale-like and tightly pressed against the branches, giving the tree a dense, feathery appearance. The bark is reddish-brown, thin, and fibrous, peeling off in long, vertical strips. Older trees develop a more rugged and furrowed bark. Eastern redcedar produces small, berry-like cones that are blue to purple and covered with a whitish bloom. The seeds inside the cones are an important food source for various wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Why the eastern redcedar is deer resistant
The scale-like foliage of eastern redcedar is tough and can be unpalatable to deer. Additionally, the foliage emits a strong, pungent aroma that deer find unappealing. The bitter taste of the foliage further deters deer from browsing on these trees. Eastern redcedar contains natural compounds, such as terpenes and phenolics, that make the foliage distasteful and potentially toxic to deer. These chemical defenses are an effective deterrent against herbivory. The dense, bushy growth habit of eastern redcedar creates a physical barrier that is difficult for deer to navigate. This makes it less likely for deer to target these trees as a food source.
Benefits of Planting an Eastern Redcedar Tree
Eastern redcedar is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal watering and pruning once established. Its resilience makes it an ideal choice for low-maintenance landscaping. Eastern redcedar is commonly used in windbreaks and shelterbelts to protect crops, livestock, and structures from harsh winds.
2. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
The ginkgo tree, also known as the maidenhair tree, typically grows to heights of 50 to 80 feet, though some specimens can reach over 100 feet. The leaves are fan-shaped with veins radiating out into the leaf blade. They turn a brilliant yellow in the fall before dropping. The bark is light gray to brown and becomes deeply furrowed with age. Ginkgo trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees. Male trees produce small, cone-like structures, while female trees produce seeds encased in a fleshy outer layer that can be quite odorous when fallen and decayed. The seeds, known as ginkgo nuts, are edible after proper preparation and are a delicacy in some cultures.
Ginkgo trees are highly resistant to pollution, making them ideal for urban planting. They can tolerate high levels of pollution, soil compaction, and poor air quality. Ginkgo trees are remarkably resistant to most pests and diseases, contributing to their longevity and low maintenance needs. While ginkgo trees do not provide significant food sources for wildlife, their dense canopy offers shelter and nesting sites for birds and other small animals.
Why Ginkgo Trees Are Deer Resistant
The leaves of ginkgo trees have a tough, leathery texture and contain certain compounds that are unpalatable to deer. These factors make the foliage less appealing as a food source. Ginkgo leaves contain ginkgolic acids and other bitter compounds that deter herbivory. Female ginkgo trees produce seeds with a fleshy coating that emits a strong, unpleasant odor when it falls and decays. This smell can deter deer and other animals from browsing in the vicinity.
Benefits of Planting a Gingko Tree
Ginkgo trees are prized for their stunning yellow fall foliage, which adds vibrant color to landscapes.
3. River Birch (Betula nigra)
River birch trees typically grow to heights of 40 to 70 feet, with a spread of 30 to 50 feet. They have a fast growth rate, making them an excellent choice for quickly establishing shade and coverage. The leaves are ovate, 2 to 3 inches long, and serrated along the edges. They turn a vibrant yellow in the fall. The bark is one of the most distinctive features of the river birch; it is papery and peels away in layers, revealing a range of colors from creamy white to reddish-brown. River birch trees produce small, inconspicuous flowers in the form of catkins in early spring. The seeds are tiny and enclosed in small, cone-like structures that mature in late spring. While the seeds are small, they can be a food source for various bird species.
Why River Birch Trees Are Deer Resistant
The leaves of the river birch have a rough texture and bitter taste, making them less appealing to deer. The leaves and bark contain certain compounds that can deter deer from feeding on them. The papery, peeling bark of the river birch is not typically favored by deer. Its texture and the presence of tannins can act as a deterrent. Even if some browsing occurs, the river birch’s rapid growth rate allows it to quickly recover from damage. The tree's overall resilience makes it less vulnerable to significant harm from deer.
Benefits of Planting a River Birch Tree
A benefit of planting river birch trees is that the peeling bark provides year-round interest along with the bright yellow leaves in the fall. River birch trees can thrive in a range of soil types and moisture conditions, making them versatile for different landscaping needs. They are hardy in USDA zones 4-9, able to withstand both cold and heat. River birch trees are commonly planted along riverbanks and wet areas to help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
4. Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum)
Paperbark maple trees typically grow at a slow to moderate rate, reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet, with a spread of 15 to 25 feet. The leaves are trifoliate (three leaflets) and have a medium green color in the spring and summer, turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. The bark is one of the most distinctive features of the paperbark maple. It peels away in thin, papery layers to reveal a rich cinnamon to reddish-brown inner bark, providing year-round visual interest. The flowers are small, yellowish-green, and not particularly showy. They appear in late spring. The tree produces samaras (winged seeds) that mature in late summer to early fall.
Why Paperbark Maple Trees Are Deer Resistant
The peeling, papery bark of the paperbark maple is not particularly appealing to deer. Its texture and the presence of tannins can deter deer from browsing. The bark contains certain compounds that are unpalatable to deer. The leaves have a texture and taste that is generally not favored by deer, making them less likely to be browsed. The leaves may contain bitter compounds that further discourage deer from feeding on them.
Benefits of Planting a Paperbark Maple Tree
Paperbark maples can thrive in a range of soil types and conditions, making them versatile for different landscaping needs. The exfoliating bark provides year-round interest, and the vibrant red, orange, and yellow fall foliage adds color to the landscape. Paperbark maples can thrive in a range of soil types and conditions, making them versatile for different landscaping needs.
5. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
The bald cypress is a deciduous conifer native to the southeastern United States.
These trees are massive, typically growing to heights of 50 to 70 feet, but in ideal conditions they can reach up to 120 feet. They have a moderate to fast growth rate. The leaves are needle-like, soft, and feathery, turning a rich russet or bronze color in the fall before falling off. The bark is fibrous, reddish-brown, and peels off in strips, providing an attractive texture year-round. Bald cypress trees produce "knees," which are woody projections that rise above the ground or water surface. The function of these knees is still debated, but they are thought to help with gas exchange and stability in wet conditions. The tree produces round cones that contain the seeds. These cones mature in the fall and release seeds that are often dispersed by water.
Why Bald Cypress Trees Are Deer Resistant
The needles of the bald cypress are not particularly palatable to deer due to their tough texture and resinous nature. The foliage contains certain compounds that can deter deer from feeding. The bark is fibrous and not easily digestible, making it less attractive to deer. The bark contains tannins, which can act as a deterrent to browsing animals. Even if some browsing occurs, bald cypress trees can recover quickly due to their vigorous growth.
Benefits of Planting a Bald Cypress Tree
The feathery foliage, distinctive knees, and peeling bark provide year-round interest, and the rich russet or bronze fall color adds seasonal beauty. Bald Cypress trees can thrive in a range of soil types, including wet and dry conditions.
6. Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
Japanese cedar trees can grow to impressive heights, typically reaching 50 to 70 feet in cultivated landscapes, but in their native habitat, they can grow over 100 feet tall. They have a moderate to fast growth rate. The leaves are needle-like, arranged in a spiral, and are dark green. In colder climates, the foliage may take on a bronze or reddish hue during winter. The bark is reddish-brown, peels off in long strips, and provides a textured, attractive appearance. The tree produces small, round cones that are about 1 inch in diameter. These cones contain seeds that mature in the fall. The seeds and foliage are not a primary food source for most wildlife, which can help reduce damage from animals.
Why Japanese Cedar Trees Are Deer Resistant
The needle-like leaves of the Japanese cedar are tough and not palatable to deer. Their texture makes them less appealing to browse. The foliage contains certain compounds that deter deer from feeding. These compounds can include essential oils and tannins that make the foliage less tasty or even mildly toxic. The bark and wood of the Japanese cedar have a strong aroma that can be off-putting to deer. The aromatic compounds can act as a natural repellent. The tree produces essential oils that contribute to its resistance to deer browsing. Even if some browsing occurs, Japanese cedar trees can recover quickly due to their rapid growth rate.
Benefits of Planting a Japanese Cedar Tree
The tall, straight trunk and graceful foliage make the Japanese cedar a striking addition to any landscape and the evergreen foliage provides year-round greenery. Japanese cedar trees can thrive in various soil types and climatic conditions, making them versatile for different landscaping needs.
7. American Holly (Ilex opaca)
The American holly is an evergreen tree native to the eastern and central United States. American Holly trees typically grow 15 to 30 feet tall but can reach heights of up to 50 feet in optimal conditions. They have a slow to moderate growth rate, adding about 6 to 12 inches per year. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have sharp, spiny edges. They are about 2 to 4 inches long and remain on the tree year-round. The bark is smooth and light gray, providing an attractive contrast to the dark green foliage. Female trees produce bright red berries in the fall, which persist into winter, providing a striking visual display and food for wildlife.
Why American Holly Trees Are Deer Resistant
The leaves of the American holly have sharp spines along the edges, which deter deer from browsing. The spines make the foliage unpalatable and can cause discomfort when deer try to eat them. The leaves are tough and leathery, adding another layer of deterrence against deer feeding. American holly leaves contain certain chemical compounds that make them less appealing to deer. These compounds can include tannins, which contribute to the bitterness and toughness of the leaves. Even if some browsing occurs, the overall structure and density of the tree's foliage can withstand minor damage without significant impact on its health or appearance.
Benefits of Planting an American Holly Tree
The evergreen foliage and bright red berries provide visual interest throughout the year, especially during the winter months. American holly can be used as a specimen tree, hedge, or part of a mixed border, adding structure and color to any landscape. Dense foliage makes American holly an excellent choice for privacy screens and hedges. Once established, it requires minimal care and is drought tolerant.
8. Norway Spruce (Picea abies)
The Norway spruce is a large, evergreen conifer native to Europe. It has been widely planted in North America and other parts of the world for its fast growth, adaptability, and ornamental beauty. A fast-growing tree, the Norway spruce can grow 40 to 60 feet tall in landscape settings, but in its native range, it can reach heights of up to 150 feet. The needles are dark green, stiff, and about 0.5 to 1 inch long. They are four-sided and sharp to the touch. The bark is thin and scaly, gray-brown in color, and develops plates with age. The tree produces long, cylindrical cones that start green and ripen to brown. The seeds are a food source for various wildlife, including birds and squirrels.
Why Norway Spruce Trees Are Deer Resistant
The needles of the Norway spruce are sharp and not palatable to deer. The spiny texture discourages browsing. The dense arrangement of needles makes it difficult for deer to feed on the tree effectively. The needles and bark contain certain compounds that make them unappealing to deer. These compounds can include resins and other chemicals that deer tend to avoid. Even if some browsing occurs, Norway spruce trees can recover quickly due to their fast growth rate. Being evergreen, the tree maintains its foliage throughout the year, providing consistent protection against deer damage.
Benefits of Planting a Norway Spruce Tree
The classic conical shape and dense foliage make the Norway spruce a striking addition to any landscape. The evergreen needles provide year-round color and interest. Dense foliage makes Norway spruce ideal for use in privacy screens and windbreaks. Once established, the tree requires minimal care and is drought tolerant.
Fun Facts: Widely used as a Christmas tree due to its symmetrical shape and dense foliage.
9. Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)
The serviceberry, also known as juneberry, shadbush, or saskatoon, is a versatile and attractive deciduous tree native to North America, typically growing to 15 to 25 feet tall, though some species can reach up to 40 feet. They have moderate growth rate, establishing well in various conditions. The leaves are oval, with finely serrated edges, and turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. The bark is smooth and gray, often with vertical streaks, becoming slightly rougher with age. Clusters of white or slightly pink, star-shaped flowers bloom in early spring, often before the leaves emerge. The berries are small, round, and reddish-purple to blue-black, ripening in early summer and are edible for both humans and wildlife.
The berries are highly attractive to birds, mammals, and pollinators. They provide an important food source during the summer months. The spring flowers are an important early nectar source for bees and other pollinators, and the dense branching provides good cover and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
Why Serviceberry Trees Are Deer Resistant
While deer may occasionally browse on serviceberry, the taste and texture of the foliage are generally not preferred. The leaves and twigs are less palatable compared to other plants. Even if some browsing occurs, serviceberry trees can recover quickly due to their moderate growth rate and resilient nature. Serviceberries often grow as multi-stemmed shrubs or small trees, which helps them withstand some level of browsing without significant damage. The change in foliage taste and texture throughout the seasons may make it less attractive to deer over time.
Benefits of Planting a Serviceberry Tree
Serviceberries provide visual interest throughout the year with spring flowers, summer berries, fall foliage, and winter bark. Once established, serviceberries are relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care and being drought tolerant.
10. Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens)
The Colorado blue spruce, also known as the blue spruce or simply the Colorado spruce, is a hardy, coniferous tree native to the central and southern Rocky Mountains of the United States.
It typically grows 30 to 60 feet tall but can reach up to 75 feet in optimal conditions. The tree has a broad pyramidal shape with a spread of about 10 to 20 feet. Slow to moderate, growing about 12 to 24 inches per year. The needles are sharp, stiff, and about 1 to 1.5 inches long. They are known for their blue-green to silver-blue color, which can vary depending on the tree’s growing conditions and genetic variation. The bark is thin and grayish-brown, with a scaly texture that becomes more furrowed with age. The cones are cylindrical, about 2 to 4 inches long. Young cones are green or purple, maturing to light brown. The seeds of the cones are eaten by various bird species, while the needles and bark may occasionally be browsed by larger mammals.
Why Colorado Blue Spruce Trees Are Deer Resistant
The sharp, stiff needles are unpalatable and deter deer from browsing. The needles' prickly texture makes them less appealing compared to other softer-leaved plants. The needles have a distinct, somewhat pungent odor that may further deter deer and other herbivores. The tree’s dense, evergreen foliage makes it difficult for deer to navigate through and browse extensively. Even if some browsing occurs, the tree's slow growth and dense branching help it recover without significant damage.
Benefits of Planting a Colorado Blue Spruce Tree
The blue-gray needles provide year-round visual interest and contrast with other greenery. Once established, the Colorado blue spruce requires minimal care, being drought-tolerant and relatively pest-resistant. Effective as a windbreak due to its dense foliage and sturdy structure, protecting homes and other plants from wind damage.
Additional Tips for Deer Management
- Install a barrier, like fencing. Installing a high fence or other physical barrier around your property or garden can effectively keep deer out and away from tasty plants.
- Use commercial or DIY repellents. Use commercial deer repellents or homemade deer-deterrents (like garlic or hot pepper sprays) to make trees less attractive to deer.
- Consider companion planting. Surrounding susceptible trees with deer-resistant plants can create a natural barrier.
- Commit to regular inspections and maintenance. Regularly check for deer damage and take action to protect trees as needed.
Check out the latest...
