Natural Deer Repellent Plants: Protecting Your Garden with Nature's Help

Topic: Natural deer repellent plants

Are you tired of deer nibbling on your prized plants? Are you looking for a natural solution that doesn't involve harsh chemicals or toxic substances? Look no further! Natural deer repellent plants can offer an effective solution that is both safe and environmentally friendly. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best natural deer repellent plants, how they work, and how to use them in your garden.

The Importance of Natural Deer Repellents

Deer are beautiful animals but they can be a nuisance when it comes to gardens. They have a voracious appetite and can easily destroy your plants in a matter of minutes. While there are many chemical-based repellents available in the market, these can be harmful to the environment and may not be safe for pets or children.

Fortunately, there are several natural deer repellent plants that can help keep deer at bay without any harm to your plants or the environment. These plants contain strong scents or tastes that deer find unpleasant or unappetizing, thus deterring them from munching on your garden.

15 Best Natural Deer Repellent Plants

Here are some of the best natural deer repellent plants that you can consider planting in your garden:

1. Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful herb that is known for its calming fragrance. However, deer dislike its strong scent and will avoid it. Plant lavender in your garden to repel deer while also enjoying its soothing aroma.

2. Rosemary

Rosemary is another herb that deer dislike due to its strong scent. It is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for any garden.

3. Sage

Sage is a fragrant herb that is often used in cooking. However, deer dislike its strong scent and will avoid it. Planting sage in your garden can help keep deer at bay while also providing you with fresh herbs for your kitchen.

4. Mint

Mint is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. It also has a strong scent that deer dislike, making it an effective natural deer repellent plant. Plant mint in containers or in areas where you don't want deer to venture.

5. Thyme

Thyme is a low-growing herb that is easy to grow and care for. Its strong scent makes it unappealing to deer, making it an excellent natural repellent plant.

6. Oregano

Oregano is another herb that deer dislike. It is easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes. Plant oregano in your garden to keep deer away while also enjoying its delicious flavor.

7. Chives

Chives are a member of the onion family and have a strong odor that deer dislike. Plant chives in your garden to repel deer while also adding a tasty ingredient to your meals.

8. Dill

Dill is a popular herb that is often used in pickling. Deer dislike its strong smell and will stay away from it. Plant dill in your garden to keep deer at bay while also enjoying its unique flavor.

9. Garlic

Garlic is a pungent herb that is often used in cooking. Its strong smell makes it unappealing to deer, making it an effective natural repellent plant. Plant garlic in your garden to deter deer and enjoy its delicious flavor.

10. Marigolds

Marigolds are beautiful flowers that are easy to grow and care for. They have a strong scent that deer dislike, making them an excellent natural repellent plant. Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your garden to keep deer away.

11. Yarrow

Yarrow is a hardy perennial that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions. It has a strong scent that deer find unpleasant, making it an effective natural deer repellent plant.

12. Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family and has a strong scent that repels deer. It is also attractive to cats, so be prepared for some feline visitors if you decide to plant it in your garden.

13. Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, is a beautiful flower that is often used for medicinal purposes. Deer dislike its strong scent, making it an effective natural deer repellent plant.

14. Alliums

Alliums are a family of plants that includes onions, garlic, and chives. They all have a strong odor that deer dislike, making them effective natural repellent plants. Plant alliums in your garden to keep deer at bay while also adding some flavorful ingredients to your meals.

15. Boxwood

Boxwood is a popular shrub that is often used for landscaping. Deer dislike its strong scent and will avoid it. Plant boxwood around the perimeter of your garden to keep deer away.

How Natural Deer Repellent Plants Work

Natural deer repellent plants work by emitting strong scents or tastes that are unappealing to deer. When deer come into contact with these plants, they will avoid them and look for other food sources. Some natural repellent plants also have a bitter taste that makes them unpalatable to deer. By planting these plants in your garden, you can create a natural barrier that will help protect your plants from deer damage.

How to Use Natural Deer Repellent Plants in Your Garden

There are several ways to use natural deer repellent plants in your garden. Here are some tips:

1. Plant Them Around the Perimeter of Your Garden

Plant natural deer repellent plants around the perimeter of your garden to create a barrier that will deter deer from entering. This is especially effective if you have a large garden or live in an area with a high deer population.

2. Interplant Them Among Your Other Plants

You can also interplant natural deer repellent plants among your other plants to provide added protection. This is particularly effective if you have plants that are particularly attractive to deer.

3. Make a Spray

You can make a natural deer repellent spray by steeping herbs such as garlic, lavender, and mint in water. Strain the mixture and then spray it on your plants to repel deer.

4. Use Essential Oils

Essential oils such as peppermint, clove, and cinnamon can also be used to repel deer. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water and then spray it on your plants.


Natural deer repellent plants can be an effective way to protect your garden from unwanted deer damage. By planting these plants in your garden, you can create a natural barrier that will deter deer from entering. Remember to plant a variety of natural deer repellent plants to ensure maximum protection.

FAQs

1. Do natural deer repellent plants really work?

Yes, natural deer repellent plants can be very effective at deterring deer from your garden. However, it's important to plant a variety of different plants to ensure maximum protection.

2. Can I use natural deer repellent plants in conjunction with other repellents?

Yes, you can use natural deer repellent plants in conjunction with other repellents such as fencing or sprays. This can provide added protection for your garden.

3. Are natural deer repellent plants safe for pets and children?

Yes, natural deer repellent plants are safe for pets and children. They do not contain any harmful chemicals or toxins.

4. How often should I replant natural deer repellent plants?

Most natural deer repellent plants are perennials and will come back year after year. However, it's a good idea to replace them every few years to ensure maximum effectiveness.

5. What if I live in an area with a high deer population?

If you live in an area with a high deer population, you may need to take additional measures to protect your garden. Consider using fencing or other physical barriers in addition to natural deer repellent plants.