Do Deer Eat Geraniums

Gardeners often wonder, do deer eat geraniums? It’s a common question for anyone trying to protect their flower beds. The short answer is usually no, but it’s not a perfect guarantee. Deer tend to avoid geraniums because of their strong scent and slightly fuzzy, bitter leaves. This makes them a popular choice for gardens in areas with deer pressure. However, a hungry deer will eat almost anything, so understanding the details is key to protecting your plants.

Geraniums, both true geraniums (hardy cranesbill) and common pelargoniums, are generally considered deer-resistant. Deer rely heavily on their sense of smell to find palatable food. The pungent aroma of geranium leaves, caused by essential oils, is a natural deterrent. The texture of the leaves also plays a role; they are often hairy or thick, which deer find unappealing compared to softer, sweeter plants like hostas or daylilies.

It’s important to remember that “deer-resistant” does not mean “deer-proof.” During times of drought, in early spring when new growth is scarce, or in winters with deep snow, deer may sample plants they normally ignore. Young, tender geranium shoots might be more at risk than established plants. If other preferred food sources are lacking, deer might take a few bites out of your geraniums, though they rarely devour them completely.

Why Deer Avoid Most Geraniums

Let’s look at the specific traits that make geraniums less tasty to deer:

Strong Fragrance: The sharp scent from the leaves is a major turn-off for deer’s sensitive noses.
Leaf Texture: Many varieties have fuzzy or thick leaves that are unpleasant to chew.
Bitter Taste: The plant’s natural chemical compounds create a bitter flavor deer dislike.
Toxic Potential: Some geranium species contain substances that can cause mild irritation to animals if ingested in large quantities.

When Deer Might Eat Your Geraniums

Despite their defenses, there are situations where geraniums become vulnerable. Recognizing these can help you take extra precautions.

Extreme Hunger: The primary reason. When natural food is scarce, deer become less picky.
Newly Planted Geraniums: Fresh from the nursery, they may be softer and more enticing. Their scent might also be weaker until they settle in.
Container Plants: Pots on patios or decks are often at deer-nose level and may be investigated out of curiosity.
Lack of Alternatives: If your garden is full of other resistant plants, deer might try geraniums simply because there’s nothing else they like.

Protecting Your Geraniums from Deer

If you live in an area with a high deer population or have seen deer damage before, taking proactive steps is wise. A layered approach works best.

1. Use Repellents Effectively

Commercial or homemade repellents can be a good first line of defense. They work by smell or taste.

Spray Repellents: Apply products containing putrescent egg solids, garlic, or capsaicin directly to the geraniums. Reapply after heavy rain or every few weeks.
Area Repellents: Place scent-based deterrents like soap bars, human hair, or commercial scent stations around the garden’s perimeter.
Rotation: Switch repellent types occasionally so deer don’t become accustomed to one smell.

2. Install Physical Barriers

Barriers are the most reliable method, though they can be more work to install.

Fencing: A tall fence (at least 8 feet) is the ultimate solution. For smaller beds, a 4-5 foot fence might work if deer aren’t desperate, as they are reluctant to jump into a small, enclosed space.
Individual Plant Cages: Use wire mesh or netting to protect specific, valuable geranium plants, especially when they are young.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These startle deer with a sudden burst of water. They are highly effective for patrolling specific areas of your yard.

3. Strategic Garden Planning

How you design your garden can influence deer behavior.

Plant in Layers: Surround your geraniums with other strongly-scented, deer-resistant plants like lavender, sage, or catmint. This creates a fragrant barrier.
Placement Matters: Plant geraniums closer to your house, where human activity and lights deter deer. Avoid planting them at the edge of wooded areas.
Opt for the Most Resistant Varieties: Some geraniums have stronger scents than others. Scented-leaved pelargoniums (like rose, lemon, or mint geraniums) are often the best choice.

Deer-Resistant Geranium Varieties to Consider

While most geraniums are resistant, some are particularly tough. Here are a few excellent choices known for their durability and strong deer-deterring traits:

Pelargonium ‘Citronella’ (Scented Geranium): Has a powerful lemon scent that deer find offensive.
Geranium macrorrhizum (Bigroot Geranium): This hardy perennial has very aromatic foliage that crushes easily, releasing its odor.
Pelargonium ‘Vancouver Centennial’: A showy variety with scented, maple-like leaves.
Geranium ‘Rozanne’: A popular cranesbill with a sprawling habit; its foliage has a distinct smell when brushed against.

What to Do If Deer Have Already Eaten Your Geraniums

Don’t panic if you find nibbled plants. Geraniums are often quite resilient.

Assess the Damage: If the stems are just trimmed, the plant will likely bush out. If it’s eaten to the ground, recovery may take longer.
Clean Up: Trim any ragged or broken stems back to a leaf node to encourage neat new growth.
Fertilize Gently: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to give the plant a boost for recovery.
Increase Protection: Immediately apply a repellent or install a temporary barrier to prevent a second visit.

Common Myths About Deer and Geraniums

Let’s clear up some misconceptions.

Myth: All deer hate all geraniums equally. Truth: Deer populations have different tastes; what one herd avoids, another might taste.
Myth: Once a deer eats a geranium, it will come back for more. Truth: They often try it once, dislike it, and move on—unless they are starving.
Myth: Flower color makes a difference. Truth: Deer see in shades of blue and yellow, but scent and texture are far more important factors to them than color.

Companion Plants to Boost Protection

Planting geraniums alongside these known deer-resistant plants creates a safer garden community.

Lavender
Russian Sage
Catmint (Nepeta)
Daffodils (bulbs)
Marigolds
Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano

FAQ: Deer and Geraniums

Do deer eat hardy geraniums (cranesbill)?

Yes, hardy geraniums share the same deer-resistant traits as pelargoniums. Their aromatic foliage and texture make them generally unappealing.

Will deer eat scented geraniums?

Deer are least likely to eat scented geranium varieties. The intense fragrance of lemon, rose, mint, or citronella types makes them one of the safest choices.

Are geraniums in hanging baskets safe from deer?

They are safer than ground plants, but deer can and will reach up to about six feet. A determined deer could nibble a basket if it’s within reach, so hang them high or close to the house.

What other animals eat geraniums?

While deer usually avoid them, rabbits might sometimes nibble young shoots. Slugs, Japanese beetles, and caterpillars are more common pests for geraniums than large mammals.

Is it worth planting geraniums to deter deer from other plants?

Geraniums alone won’t deter deer from a buffet of their favorite plants. They work best as part of a garden filled with resistant varieties, not as a sacrificial or protective border by themselves.

In conclusion, geraniums are a smart, beautiful choice for gardens frequented by deer. Their natural defenses make them a low-risk plant, though not an invincible one. By choosing strong-smelling varieties, using them in strategic combinations with other resistant plants, and being ready with repellents or barriers during tough seasons, you can greatly increase your chances of enjoying their blooms all season long. Remember, observing the deer in your specific area is the best way to understand their habits and protect your garden effectively.