Do Deer Like New Guinea Impatiens?
Gardeners often find themselves in a constant battle with local wildlife, particularly deer, which can wreak havoc on carefully cultivated flower beds. Among the many plants that adorn gardens, New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) are prized for their vibrant blooms and lush foliage. But do these tropical beauties attract deer, or are they a safe bet for deer-prone areas? This article delves into the relationship between deer and New Guinea impatiens, exploring factors that influence deer behavior, and offering practical advice for protecting your garden.
Deer Feeding Habits: A Complex Picture
Understanding deer feeding preferences requires moving beyond simplistic “deer-resistant” labels. Deer are opportunistic browsers, meaning their diet varies based on availability, season, and individual preferences. While they have favorite foods, hunger can drive them to sample plants they would normally avoid.
“Deer resistance is a spectrum, not a binary category,” explains Dr. Emily Carter, a wildlife biologist specializing in herbivore behavior. “Factors like drought, population density, and the presence of natural predators all influence what deer will eat.”
Nutritional Needs: Deer seek plants high in protein, particularly during spring and summer when they are nursing fawns or preparing for winter.
Taste and Texture: Deer generally avoid plants with strong scents, fuzzy textures, or bitter tastes.
Availability: When preferred food sources are scarce, deer will expand their diet to include less desirable options.
Habituation: Deer can become accustomed to certain plants in their environment, even if those plants are not typically considered favorites.
New Guinea Impatiens: A Deer Perspective
New Guinea impatiens, native to the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, are not a natural part of a deer’s diet. Their large, showy flowers and succulent leaves might seem appealing, but several factors suggest they are not a deer’s first choice: * Taste and Scent: While not strongly fragrant to humans, New Guinea impatiens may possess subtle scents or tastes that deter deer. Some gardeners report that deer avoid them, possibly due to their slightly bitter foliage.
Texture: The somewhat fleshy leaves of New Guinea impatiens might be less palatable to deer compared to softer, more tender foliage.
Alternative Food Sources: In areas with abundant natural vegetation, deer are less likely to target cultivated plants like New Guinea impatiens.
Pros and Cons of Using New Guinea Impatiens in Deer-Prone Areas
- Pros:
- Not a preferred deer food source.
- Vibrant blooms add color to shaded areas.
- Relatively low-maintenance once established.
- Cons:
- Not completely deer-proof, especially in times of food scarcity.
- Can be damaged by deer browsing, even if not their first choice.
- May require additional protection in areas with high deer populations.
Real-World Observations and Case Studies
Anecdotal evidence from gardeners suggests that New Guinea impatiens are often left untouched by deer, even in areas where deer are prevalent. However, there are exceptions.
“I’ve had a large bed of New Guinea impatiens for years, and the deer never bother them,” says Sarah, a gardener in Pennsylvania. “But my neighbor’s impatiens get nibbled occasionally, especially in the spring.”Case Study: Deer Damage in a Suburban Garden
A study conducted by a local gardening club in Maryland tracked deer damage to various plants over a growing season. While New Guinea impatiens were not among the most heavily browsed plants, they did experience some damage, particularly during periods of drought when other food sources were limited.
Strategies for Protecting New Guinea Impatiens from Deer
While New Guinea impatiens may not be a deer’s favorite snack, it’s wise to take precautions, especially in areas with high deer populations.
Effective Deer Deterrence Methods:
- Physical Barriers:
- Install deer fencing around your garden, ensuring it is at least 8 feet tall.
- Use individual plant protectors, such as wire mesh cages, around vulnerable plants.
- Repellents:
- Apply commercial deer repellents containing ingredients like putrescent egg solids, garlic, or capsaicin.
- Homemade remedies, such as a mixture of garlic, chili peppers, and water, can also be effective but require frequent reapplication.
- Companion Planting:
- Interplant New Guinea impatiens with strongly scented herbs like lavender, rosemary, or catmint, which deer tend to avoid.
- Environmental Modifications:
- Keep your garden well-lit at night, as deer are more active in darkness.
- Remove brush piles and other hiding spots that provide cover for deer.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
While New Guinea impatiens are not typically a deer’s first choice, they are not entirely immune to browsing. By understanding deer behavior and implementing a combination of deterrence strategies, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of these tropical blooms without becoming a deer buffet. Remember, the key to successful deer management lies in a multi-pronged approach that addresses both the plants you choose and the environment you create.
Key Takeaway: New Guinea impatiens are generally less attractive to deer than many other garden plants, but they are not completely deer-proof. A combination of plant selection, physical barriers, repellents, and environmental modifications offers the best protection for your garden.
Are New Guinea impatiens toxic to deer?
+There is no evidence to suggest that New Guinea impatiens are toxic to deer. While they may not be a preferred food source, deer can consume them without experiencing harmful effects.
What are some deer-resistant alternatives to New Guinea impatiens?
+Some deer-resistant alternatives for shaded areas include hostas, ferns, coral bells, and astilbe. For sunny locations, consider marigolds, salvia, Russian sage, and yarrow.
How often should I apply deer repellent to my New Guinea impatiens?
+The frequency of application depends on the type of repellent used and weather conditions. Generally, commercial repellents need to be reapplied every 2-4 weeks, or after heavy rain.
Can I use human hair or soap to deter deer from my impatiens?
+While some gardeners report success with these methods, their effectiveness is inconsistent. Deer can quickly become habituated to these scents, rendering them ineffective over time.
What should I do if deer are damaging my New Guinea impatiens despite my efforts?
+If deer continue to damage your plants, consider contacting your local wildlife agency for advice. They may be able to provide additional strategies or assist with deer population management in your area.
