By Leigh Ann Hicks
Are destructive deer making you deranged? Are those exciting plants you so lovingly planted nibbled to nubs overnight? Well, I recommend checking out Deer-Resistant Design by Karen Chapman, available at Garland County Library.
This book is subtitled Fence-Free Gardens that Thrive Despite Deer and contains strategies and suggestions for thwarting the deer that are making life miserable. There are 13 chapters featuring gorgeous photographs of gardens from different parts of the country. Whether you prefer natural or formal designs, need water-wise solutions, or are absolutely determined to grow hostas, you will find something that will work for you. Although none of these 13 gardens are in Arkansas, many are in similar environments and feature plants that work in many different garden zones.
At the end of each chapter is a detailed list of the Top Ten plants recommended by the homeowners, including deer-resistance ratings, growing zones, and sun/shade requirements. Our own Arkansas blue star native plant is featured as one of these Top Ten plants in one chapter. It has an A rating for deer resistance and was particularly loved by the homeowner for its feathery foliage, which is especially striking in the fall.
There is one additional chapter on deer-resistant containers that’s worth checking out. And don’t skip the Introduction, which is chock full of ideas and strategies to keep those pesky deer away. Honestly, I loved this book so much – and have so much deer damage! – I ordered it from Amazon. Already have several plants on my wish list, including Arkansas Blue Star.
Now I just need to figure out how to keep the deer from chomping on my rosebuds.
Leigh Ann Hicks, a Garland County Master Gardener, volunteers with GC Master Gardeners of the UofA Div. of Agriculture, Cooperative Ext. Service. Master Gardeners pool skills and resources to improve home horticulture, stimulate interest in plants and gardening, and encourage beautification. For more info, call 501-623-6841 or abates@uaex.edu.
