Do Deer Eat Hostas?

The Truth About Deer and Hostas

Are you a gardening enthusiast who loves to grow beautiful hostas in your garden? Have you ever wondered whether deer eat hostas? If so, you're not alone. Many gardeners are concerned about deer damaging their plants, and with good reason. Deer can be voracious eaters and can damage or destroy entire gardens in a matter of days.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the relationship between deer and hostas. We'll explore the factors that influence whether deer will eat your hostas, and what you can do to protect your plants from these hungry creatures.

Understanding Deer Behavior

Before we dive into the specifics of whether deer eat hostas, it's important to understand a bit about deer behavior. Deer are herbivores, which means they eat only plants. They're also opportunistic feeders, which means they'll eat whatever is available in their environment. In the wild, deer feed on a variety of plants, including grasses, shrubs, and trees.

When deer are hungry, they'll often venture into residential areas in search of food. This is where they can cause problems for gardeners. Deer are known to eat a wide range of plants, including many common garden plants like flowers, vegetables, and fruits.

Factors That Influence Whether Deer Will Eat Hostas

Whether or not deer will eat your hostas depends on a variety of factors. Here are some of the most important ones:

Location

Deer are more likely to eat hostas in areas where there are large populations of deer. If you live in an area with a high deer population, your hostas are more likely to be eaten.

Time of Year

Deer are more likely to eat hostas during certain times of the year. In the spring, when new growth is emerging, deer may be attracted to the tender shoots of hostas. In the fall, when other food sources are becoming scarce, deer may turn to hostas as a food source.

Size and Age of Hostas

Larger hostas are less likely to be eaten by deer than smaller ones. Additionally, older hostas that have thicker leaves and stems are less attractive to deer than younger plants with tender growth.

Other Food Sources

If there are plenty of other food sources available in your area, deer may be less likely to eat your hostas. If you live in an area with abundant natural vegetation, for example, deer may not need to eat your garden plants to survive.

Protecting Your Hostas from Deer

If you're concerned about deer eating your hostas, there are several things you can do to protect your plants. Here are some of the most effective methods:

Fencing

One of the best ways to keep deer away from your hostas is to install a fence around your garden. Deer can jump over high fences, so it's important to choose a fence that's at least 8 feet tall.

Repellents

There are many commercial repellents on the market that are designed to keep deer away from plants. These products typically contain strong-smelling compounds that deer find unpleasant. Some popular options include garlic spray, soap bars, and predator urine.

Netting

Another way to protect your hostas from deer is to cover them with netting. This will prevent the deer from accessing your plants, while still allowing sunlight and rain to reach them.

Planting Deer-Resistant Plants

If you're looking for a long-term solution to deer damage, consider planting deer-resistant plants in your garden. These plants are less attractive to deer and are unlikely to be eaten.

Deer-Resistant Hostas

While no plant is completely deer-proof, there are some hosta varieties that are less attractive to deer than others. Here are some of the most deer-resistant hostas:

Blue Angel

This large, blue-green hosta is one of the most popular varieties on the market. It has thick leaves and a strong, upright habit, which makes it less attractive to deer.

Sum and Substance

Another popular hosta variety, Sum and Substance has huge, bright green leaves that can grow up to 2 feet wide. Its size and texture make it unappealing to deer.

Halcyon

Halcyon is a medium-sized hosta with blue-green leaves that have a waxy texture. This makes them less palatable to deer.

FAQs:

1. Will deer eat hostas if they're hungry enough?

Yes, if deer are hungry enough, they'll eat just about anything, including hostas.

2. How do I know if deer are eating my hostas?

Look for signs of damage, such as holes or bite marks on the leaves. You may also see tracks or droppings in your garden.

3. Are there any natural ways to repel deer?

Yes, there are many natural deer repellents that you can use in your garden. Some options include planting garlic, using essential oils like peppermint or thyme, and hanging bars of soap in your garden.

4. How can I tell if a hosta is deer-resistant?

Look for hostas with thicker leaves and stems, as these are less attractive to deer. You can also ask your local nursery or garden center for recommendations.

5. Can I use human hair to repel deer?

Yes, some gardeners swear by using human hair to repel deer. Simply sprinkle hair clippings around your garden to keep deer away.



In deer can be a major problem for gardeners who grow hostas. However, with the right measures in place, you can protect your plants from these hungry creatures. Whether you choose to install a fence, use repellents, or plant deer-resistant varieties, there are many effective ways to keep your hostas safe and healthy.