Do Deer Eat Marigolds

Gardeners often wonder, do deer eat marigolds? It’s a common question for anyone trying to protect their flower beds. The short answer is yes, deer will eat marigolds, but they usually aren’t their first choice. This makes marigolds a useful part of a smart garden strategy, but not a guaranteed solution on their own.

While marigolds are often labeled “deer-resistant,” no plant is truly deer-proof. When food is scarce, deer will eat almost anything. Marigolds have a strong scent and a slightly bitter taste that deer tend to avoid. However, a hungry deer, especially a young one curious about new foods, might still take a bite.

Why Deer Sometimes Avoid Marigolds

The main defense of marigolds is their pungent aroma. Deer rely heavily on their sense of smell to find palatable food. The compounds that give marigolds their distinctive smell are unappealing to deer. The flavor of the leaves and flowers can also be off-putting compared to tastier treats like hostas or daylilies.

When Deer Might Eat Your Marigolds

There are specific situations when your marigolds become more at risk. Understanding these can help you plan.

Early Spring: When new, tender growth is one of the few food sources available.
Late Fall/Winter: When other vegetation has died back and deer are desperate.
Drought Conditions: Natural food sources are limited, pushing deer into gardens.
High Deer Population: Too many deer and not enough food leads to less picky eating.
Young, Curious Deer: Fawns may sample plants that older deer ignore.

Marigold Varieties and Deer Resistance

Not all marigolds are created equal. Some types have stronger scents than others, which can influence a deer’s decision.

French Marigolds (Tagetes patula): These have the strongest, muskiest scent and are often the most deer-resistant. Their compact, bushy growth is great for borders.
African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta): These have larger flowers but a somewhat milder scent. They might be slightly more tempting if other options are around.
Signet Marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia): These have a lighter, citrusy scent and finer foliage. They are likely the least deer-resistant of the common types.

Using Marigolds in a Deer-Deterrent Strategy

Since marigolds alone won’t keep deer out, use them as part of a layered approach. This is your best bet for a beautiful, intact garden.

Companion Planting for Protection

Plant marigolds alongside other strongly-scented herbs and flowers to create a fragrant barrier that deer hate. This method confuses their sense of smell.

Lavender
Russian Sage
Catmint
Daffodils (which are toxic to deer)
Onions or Garlic

Creating a Perimeter

Plant a thick border of marigolds around the edge of your garden, especially around more vulnerable plants. The idea is that deer will encounter the strong smell first and might turn away before reaching your prized roses or vegetables.

More Effective Deer Deterrents to Combine with Marigolds

For reliable protection, you need to go beyond planting choices. Here are proven tactics.

Physical Barriers

These are the most effective methods, though they require more effort and investment.

Fencing: A tall fence (at least 8 feet high) is the best guarantee. Deer are excellent jumpers.
Netting & Row Covers: These can protect specific beds or plants, especially at night.

Scent and Taste Repellents

These need to be applied regularly, especially after rain. Rotate types so deer don’t get used to them.

Egg-Based Sprays: Mix raw eggs with water and spray on plants. The sulfur smell is powerful.
Commercial Repellents: Look for products with putrescent egg solids or capsaicin.
Soap Bars: Hang strongly-scented soap bars from stakes around the garden.
Human or Pet Hair: Place hair in mesh bags around the garden’s perimeter.

Motion-Activated Devices

These startle deer and can condition them to avoid your yard.

Motion-activated sprinklers
Lights that turn on with movement
Radios set to talk stations

What to Do If Deer Ate Your Marigolds

Don’t panic if you find damaged plants. You can take action to help them recover and prevent further damage.

Assess the Damage: If the plant is mostly stripped, it may not recover. If just nibbled, it will likely bounce back.
Clean Up: Trim away badly broken stems to encourage new growth.
Fertilize Gently: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to give the plant a boost.
Water Well: Stressed plants need consistent moisture.
Apply a Repellent: Immediately spray the remaining plants and surrounding area with a deterrent.
Reinforce Defenses: Check your fencing or try adding another layer of protection, like a new scent repellent.

Deer-Resistant Plants to Grow With Marigolds

For a truly resilient garden, fill it with plants deer consistently avoid. Here are some excellent choices that pair well with marigolds visually and practically.

For Height: Foxglove, Butterfly Bush, Russian Sage
For Mid-Border: Salvia, Coreopsis, Peony
For Ground Cover: Lamb’s Ear, Creeping Thyme, Ajuga
For Foliage: Ferns, Heuchera, Boxwood

Remember, local deer populations can have different tastes. A plant that is ignored in one area might be a snack in another. It’s always good to ask neighbors what works for them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do rabbits eat marigolds?

Unfortunately, rabbits are less deterred by the marigold’s scent than deer. They will often eat young marigold plants and flowers. You may need separate protection, like small fencing, for rabbits.

Are marigolds deer proof?

No, marigolds are not deer proof. The term is “deer resistant,” meaning they are less likely to be eaten but are not immune, especially when deer are hungry or other food is scarce.

What flowers do deer hate the most?

Deer strongly dislike flowers with strong fragrances, fuzzy or prickly leaves, or toxic properties. Some top choices include lavender, daffodils, poppies, snapdragons, and catmint.

Will deer eat potted marigolds?

Yes, deer will eat marigolds in pots. In fact, potted plants on patios or decks might be more accessible. Consider placing pots closer to the house or using repellents on them as well.

Do marigolds keep other pests away?

Marigolds are famous for repelling nematodes (microscopic worms) in the soil and can deter some insects like whiteflies. Their effect on larger pests like deer or rabbits is more limited, as we’ve seen.

In the end, marigolds are a valuble tool for the gardener dealing with deer. Their bright color and cheery blooms add beauty, and their scent provides a level of protection. By understanding that do deer eat marigolds is a question with a nuanced answer, you can use them wisely. Combine them with other resistant plants, physical barriers, and scent repellents for the most effective defence. This multi-layered strategy is the real secret to a garden that thrives all season long, despite the wildlife passing through.