Hostas and Deer: Understanding the Relationship

Have you ever noticed that your hostas seem to disappear overnight? Or perhaps you've seen evidence of deer in your garden and wondered if they are responsible for the damage. The truth is, hostas are a popular food source for deer, and understanding the relationship between these two can help you protect your garden from these hungry visitors.

Why Do Deer Eat Hostas?

Deer are opportunistic feeders and will eat almost anything when their preferred foods are scarce. However, certain plants, such as hostas, are particularly attractive to deer due to their high nutrient content and palatability. Hostas are also easy for deer to access, as they are typically located at ground level and have soft leaves that are easy to chew.

What Are Some of the Signs That Deer Are Eating Your Hostas?

If you suspect that deer are eating your hostas, there are several signs to look out for. These include:

• Missing leaves or stems
• Bite marks on the remaining foliage
• Trampled or disturbed soil around the plant
• Footprints or other signs of deer activity nearby

How Can You Protect Your Hostas From Deer?

Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to protect your hostas from deer. These include:

1. Planting deer-resistant varieties of hostas, such as H. sieboldiana 'Elegans' or H. montana
2. Using physical barriers, such as fencing or netting, to keep deer away from your plants
3. Applying repellents, such as commercial sprays or homemade solutions made from garlic, hot pepper, or soap
4. Creating distraction areas for deer by planting other highly attractive species away from your hostas

Hosta Care Tips

In addition to protecting your hostas from deer, there are several other tips you can follow to ensure that your plants thrive. These include:

Choosing the Right Location

Hostas prefer shady, moist environments and will do best in areas with partial to full shade. They also require well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Watering and Fertilizing

Water your hostas deeply once a week, and be sure to mulch around the plant to help retain moisture. You can also fertilize your hostas with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Dividing Your Hostas

Over time, hostas can become overcrowded and may need to be divided. This is typically in the fall or early spring and involves digging up the entire clump, separating it into smaller sections, and replanting them in new locations.

Common Hosta Pests and Diseases

While deer are one of the most common threats to hostas, these plants can also be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Some of the most common include:

Slugs and Snails

These pests can cause significant damage to hostas, particularly in moist environments. To control slugs and snails, try using copper tape around the base of your plants or placing beer traps nearby.

Crown Rot

This fungal disease can cause the leaves of hostas to turn yellow and wilt. To prevent crown rot, make sure your plants are not overwatered and avoid planting them in poorly draining soil.



In hostas are a popular food source for deer, but there are several strategies you can use to protect your plants from these hungry visitors. By choosing the right location, watering and fertilizing properly, and staying vigilant for signs of damage, you can ensure that your hostas thrive for years to come.

FAQs

Q: Do all deer eat hostas?

A: While most deer will eat hostas if they are available, some species of deer may be less likely to eat these plants than others.

Q: How often should I water my hostas?

A: Hostas should be watered deeply once a week, or more frequently in hot, dry weather.

Q: Can hostas grow in full sun?

A: While hostas prefer partial to full shade, some varieties can tolerate more sun than others. Be sure to choose a variety that is suitable for your growing conditions.

Q: What other plants do deer like to eat?

A: Deer will eat a wide variety of plants, but some of their favorites include roses, daylilies, and tulips.

Q: How do repellents work to keep deer away from hostas?

A: Repellents work by creating an unpleasant taste or smell that deer find unappealing. Commercial repellents typically contain ingredients such as egg solids, garlic oil, or capsaicin (the compound that makes peppers spicy).