Deer Resistant Hostas: How to Protect Your Garden

Are you tired of seeing your beautiful hostas getting devoured by pesky deer? If so, you're not alone. Deer are a common problem for many gardeners, especially those who love planting hostas. But fear not, there are ways to protect your hostas and keep them looking their best. In this blog post, we'll discuss everything you need to know about deer resistant hostas, including what they are, how to choose them, and how to care for them.

What are deer resistant hostas?

Deer resistant hostas are varieties of hostas that are less likely to be eaten by deer. While no plant is 100% deer-proof, some hosta cultivars have shown to be more resistant to deer browsing than others. These hostas typically have thicker leaves, tougher texture or a bitter taste that deer do not find appealing.

How to Choose Deer Resistant Hostas

When looking for deer-resistant hostas for your garden, consider these factors:

• Leaf texture: Hostas with thick, waxy or prickly leaves are harder for deer to eat.
• Leaf color: Hostas with blue, gray or silver leaves are often less attractive to deer.
• Flower scent: Hostas with fragrant flowers may be less attractive to deer.

Top 5 Deer Resistant Hostas

1. Halcyon: This hosta has blue-green leaves that are thick and waxy, making them less appetizing to deer.
2. Francee: Francee is a green and white variegated hosta that is known for its resistance to deer browsing.
3. Patriot: Patriot has blue-green leaves with white margins, making it an attractive addition to any garden. It's also one of the most deer resistant hostas on the market.
4. Sum and Substance: This large hosta has chartreuse leaves that are thick and tough, making it difficult for deer to eat.
5. Guacamole: Guacamole is a fragrant hosta with green and gold variegated leaves that deer tend to avoid.

How to Care for Deer Resistant Hostas

Once you've chosen your deer resistant hostas, here are some tips on how to care for them:

Planting Hostas

When planting hostas, keep these things in mind:

• Choose a spot with well-draining soil and partial to full shade.
• Make sure the soil is rich in organic matter.
• Plant the hosta at the same depth it was in the container.
• Water the hosta regularly, especially during dry spells.

Maintaining Your Hostas

To keep your hostas healthy and looking beautiful, follow these tips:

• Fertilize your hostas once or twice a year with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Water your hostas deeply once a week, rather than shallowly every day.
• Remove yellow or dead leaves as they appear.
• Watch for signs of pests or disease, and treat them promptly.

FAQs about Deer Resistant Hostas

1. Are deer resistant hostas completely deer-proof?

No plant is completely deer-proof, but deer-resistant hostas are less likely to be eaten by deer.

2. Can I plant deer resistant hostas in full sun?

Most deer resistant hostas prefer partial to full shade, but there are a few cultivars that can tolerate some sun.

3. How do I know if my hostas are being eaten by deer?

Deer browsing on hostas will leave jagged edges on the leaves or eat them down to the stem.

4. Can I use deer repellent to protect my hostas?

Yes, there are several types of deer repellent available on the market. These repellents work by making the hosta leaves taste bitter or emit an unpleasant odor.

5. What other plants are deer resistant?

Some other deer-resistant plants include daffodils, alliums, lavender, and yarrow.



In planting deer resistant hostas is a great way to protect your garden from pesky deer. By choosing the right cultivars and following care instructions, you can enjoy beautiful hostas without worrying about them getting eaten. Remember to keep an eye out for any signs of pest or disease, and address them promptly to keep your hostas healthy.