Plants That Deter Deer and Rabbits

Have you ever spent hours cultivating a beautiful garden only to find it completely destroyed by deer or rabbits? These creatures can wreak havoc on your plants, leaving you frustrated and discouraged. Fortunately, there are many plants that these animals dislike, and planting them strategically can protect your garden while still keeping it beautiful. In this post, we'll explore some of the best plants for deterring deer and rabbits, so you can keep your garden thriving.

The Best Deer- and Rabbit-Repelling Plants

1. Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant herb that is perfect for repelling deer and rabbits. Not only do these animals dislike the scent of lavender, but it also has a natural insect-repelling property that makes it even more effective. The plant's silvery foliage and purple flowers make it an attractive addition to any garden. Plus, it's easy to care for and thrives in sunny, well-drained soil.

Caring for Lavender

To ensure your lavender thrives, plant it in full sun with well-draining soil. Lavender prefers drier conditions and doesn't require much water. Prune it back lightly after the first bloom in order to promote bushier growth.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another great option for deterring deer and rabbits. These cheerful flowers are known for their strong scent, which animals tend to avoid. Marigolds come in a range of colors, from bright orange to soft yellow, making them a versatile addition to any garden. They're also easy to grow and require very little maintenance.

Caring for Marigolds

Marigolds do best in full sun and well-drained soil. They're relatively drought-tolerant, so be sure not to overwater them. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering.

3. Catmint

Catmint is a member of the mint family that is beloved by gardeners for its attractive blue-purple flowers and fragrant foliage. It's also a favorite of cats (hence the name), but fortunately, deer and rabbits dislike it. This plant does well in sunny locations and can tolerate a range of soil conditions.

Caring for Catmint

Plant catmint in full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil. Water regularly until established, then reduce watering as the plant becomes more established.

4. Daffodils

Daffodils are a classic spring flower that is highly toxic to most animals, including deer and rabbits. These bright yellow flowers are easy to grow and require very little maintenance. They're also great for naturalizing, meaning they'll come back year after year.

Caring for Daffodils

Plant daffodil bulbs in fall in well-drained soil. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. After blooming, leave the foliage intact until it dies back naturally to allow the bulb to store energy for next year's blooms.

5. Bee Balm

Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a native North American plant that is highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies. Fortunately, it's not attractive to deer or rabbits. Bee balm has showy pink or purple flowers and can grow quite tall, making it a great option for the back of a border.

Caring for Bee Balm

Plant bee balm in full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil. Water regularly until established, then reduce watering as the plant becomes more established. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering.

Other Strategies for Deterring Deer and Rabbits

1. Fencing

One of the most effective ways to keep deer and rabbits out of your garden is to install a fence. This can be an expensive option, but it's also highly effective. Be sure to choose a fence that is at least 6 feet tall to prevent deer from jumping over it.

2. Repellents

There are many commercial repellents on the market that are designed to keep deer and rabbits away from your plants. These products typically contain strong-smelling ingredients like garlic or rotten eggs, which animals dislike. Some people also swear by home remedies like hanging bars of soap or bags of human hair around their gardens.

3. Companion Planting

Companion planting involves planting certain plants together in order to help each other thrive. In the case of deterring deer and rabbits, you can plant strong-smelling herbs and flowers alongside more vulnerable plants. This can help mask the scent of the tasty plants and make them less attractive to animals.


Keeping deer and rabbits out of your garden can be a challenge, but with the right plants and strategies, it's definitely possible. By incorporating some of these deer- and rabbit-repelling plants into your landscape, you can protect your garden while still enjoying its beauty and fragrance.

FAQs

1. What are some other plants that can deter deer?

In addition to the plants listed above, there are many other options for deterring deer, including yarrow, sage, and thyme.

2. Can I use deer repellent on edible plants?

Most commercial deer repellents are safe for use on edible plants, but it's always a good idea to read the label carefully before applying them.

3. How effective are home remedies for deterring deer and rabbits?

Home remedies like hanging bars of soap or bags of human hair can be hit or miss when it comes to deterring animals. Some people swear by them, while others find them ineffective.

4. How often should I water my deer- and rabbit-repelling plants?

Most of the plants listed above prefer well-drained soil and don't require frequent watering once they're established. Water them regularly until they're established, then reduce watering as needed.

5. How high should my fence be to keep out deer?

To keep out deer, your fence should be at least 6 feet tall. If you have particularly determined deer in your area, you may need to install additional measures like electric fencing or netting.